KultureCity®, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with sensory needs, proudly announces the achievement of the Salisbury Zoo for its commitment to creating sensory-inclusive spaces. KultureCity’s flagship initiative, the Sensory Inclusive™ program, has been widely embraced by venues, stadiums and cultural institutions across the nation and around the world. The Salisbury Zoo is the first attraction on the Eastern Shore of Maryland to obtain the Sensory Inclusive™ certification.
This groundbreaking program provides training and resources to staff, enabling them to better accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities. As a result, countless families and individuals can now experience and enjoy live events, entertainment and public spaces with greater comfort and ease.
The certification process entailed the staff at the Salisbury Zoo being trained by leading medical and neurodivergent professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools and verbal cue cards will also be available to all guests at the Salisbury Zoo who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
“We are proud to be certified through KultureCity’s Sensory Inclusive™ program,” said Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz. “We want everyone in our community to have a fun and comfortable experience when visiting the Salisbury Zoo.”
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions; age is no factor in this. Individuals might become overwhelmed from the crowds, lights, sounds, smells, or other external stimuli at the Salisbury Zoo. Founded on the belief that every person deserves to fully participate in all aspects of life, KultureCity® has been a driving force in fostering a culture of acceptance.
Through innovative programs and partnerships, KultureCity® has successfully broken down barriers that often prevent individuals with sensory sensitivities from enjoying public spaces and events. With its new certification, the Salisbury Zoo is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when visiting the Zoo.
Prior to visiting, families can download the free KultureCity® App, where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also on the app is the Social Story, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying a visit to the Salisbury Zoo.
“Empowering communities through inclusion and innovation, the Salisbury Zoo is aligned with the same visionary spirit as KultureCity® and is championing a world where every individual, regardless of ability, is not just accepted but celebrated for their unique contributions to the tapestry of humanity,” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity®.
The Salisbury Zoo also plans to add to the sensory inclusive events that are already part of its schedule. A Sensory-Friendly Family Night geared toward children with autism or other sensory sensitivities or disabilities is set for Wednesday, Aug. 28, from 5-6 p.m. Families can enjoy Creature Conversations with animal care staff, animal presentations and fun activities. There is no cost to attend, but registration is requested.
KultureCity®, established in 2014, is a dynamic nonprofit organization at the forefront of the inclusivity movement which continues to make waves in creating a more accessible and accepting world for individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities (found in 1 in 4 of us). In a short 10 years, a few highlights of KultureCity’s impact includes making over 1,800 venues sensory inclusive certified, handing out almost a million sensory bags to individuals in need, making over 150 live events sensory inclusive, and saving 48 lives through the KultureCity® First Responder Training. KultureCity’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond physical spaces. The organization actively collaborates with influential figures, businesses, and communities to promote awareness and understanding of invisible disabilities. KultureCity® partners with event industry leaders like NFL, NBA, MLB and FIFA to make their flagship events sensory inclusive. With ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and a passionate community of supporters, KultureCity® is set to leave an enduring impact on the landscape of inclusivity.
