8/15/2022

Los Angeles, California

KultureCity has partnered with Best Buddies California to make the organization’s programs and events sensory-inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all participants and volunteers with a sensory issue at Best Buddies events.

The certification process entailed that Best Buddies staff was trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those participants and volunteers 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, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all event attendees who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment at Best Buddies signature events such as the Friendship Walk or the Champion of the Year Gala. With its new certification, Best Buddies is now better prepared to assist participants and volunteers with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any Best Buddies event throughout the state of California.

Prior to attending Best Buddies CA events, 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 Best Buddies CA event.

“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the organization is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Best Buddies to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000 sensory-inclusive venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All-Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.