KultureCity has partnered with Gulf World to make the Marine Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits the Marine Park.
To receive certification, Gulf World staff were trained by leading medical 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, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Gulf World 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 over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Gulf World. “We are pleased to embark upon this partnership with KultureCity to create an inclusive environment for all guests who enter our campus,” said Travis Burke, Executive Director North America. With its new certification, the Marine Park is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities with most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Gulf World.
Prior to attending an event, 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 an event at Gulf World.
At Gulf World we are committed to the well-being of animals in our care, our staff and associates, and our community. As part of our organizational culture at the Aquarium, and as members of The Dolphin Company, we are constantly looking for programs and actions to move towards social responsibility, inclusion, education, and environmental care.
