Grand Canyon University Athletics
Sensory certification added for GCU venues
3/31/2022 12:00:00 PM | General
KultureCity trains campus employees for sensory inclusive sports events
GCU is expanding its game-day experiences by accommodating individuals with sensory needs. Staff from GCU Arena, GCU Ballpark, GCU Stadium and GCU Softball Stadium received sensory inclusive certification from the KultureCity organization.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, posttraumatic stress disorder and other similar conditions. One in six Americans has a sensory processing need. With this new certification, the four major GCU Athletics facilities are prepared to assist those guests while creating acceptance and inclusion for everyone experiencing a sports event on GCU's campus.
"GCU home athletic games are more than just games; they are fun family events," GCU Vice President of Athletics Jamie Boggs said. "We recognize not all fans with sensory needs experience an energetic atmosphere in the same way. The KutlureCity Sensory Inclusive certification allows GCU to create an environment in which everyone feels welcomed and included on our campus."
The KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certification training teaches GCU employees how to recognize guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Each certified facility is equipped with signage, a quiet community sensory room, and sensory bags filled with items that can help lessen sensory overload for someone who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Sensory bag items include:
The KultureCity certification ensures daily accessibility and is not limited by time and location of events.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, posttraumatic stress disorder and other similar conditions. One in six Americans has a sensory processing need. With this new certification, the four major GCU Athletics facilities are prepared to assist those guests while creating acceptance and inclusion for everyone experiencing a sports event on GCU's campus.
"GCU home athletic games are more than just games; they are fun family events," GCU Vice President of Athletics Jamie Boggs said. "We recognize not all fans with sensory needs experience an energetic atmosphere in the same way. The KutlureCity Sensory Inclusive certification allows GCU to create an environment in which everyone feels welcomed and included on our campus."The KultureCity Sensory Inclusive certification training teaches GCU employees how to recognize guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Each certified facility is equipped with signage, a quiet community sensory room, and sensory bags filled with items that can help lessen sensory overload for someone who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Sensory bag items include:
- verbal cue cards
- noise-cancelling headphones
- variety of fidgets
- weighted lap pads
- identification cards
The KultureCity certification ensures daily accessibility and is not limited by time and location of events.
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