Gathered around the Eco-Discovery Center’s KultureCity® plaque are Marine Sanctuaries Chief of Staff Matt Stout, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman, Director of National Marine Sanctuaries John Armor, and Sanctuaries Regional Director Matt Brookhart.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is KultureCity® Certified Sensory InclusiveTM Organization

Key West, Fla. (April 24, 2023) – KultureCity® has partnered with Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center (EDC) to make the facility Sensory InclusiveTM. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue, no matter their age or ability.

The certification process ensures that the staff and volunteers of the EDC are trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize visitors with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. KultureCity® Sensory Bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and KCVIP lanyard will be available to all guests of the EDC who may feel overwhelmed by the experience. A KultureCity® Certified Sensory Room is also available on site.

“This certification is another step in our resolve to make the EDC as user-friendly as possible,” said Lindsey Crews, Science and Outreach Coordinator for the sanctuary. “Having focused on language and physical accessibility, the sensory element was a natural progression in our plan, following the lead of other discovery centers in the sanctuary system.”

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which can be a major part of the events or exhibits at museum-like the Eco-Discovery Center. With its new certification, the EDC is now better prepared to assist clients with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.

Prior to their visit, families and individuals can download the free KultureCity® App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them, including how
to get a KultureCity® Sensory Bag. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a customized visual preview of what to expect while participating at Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center.

“Our communities shape our lives and to know that Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in community experiences is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to provide a truly inclusive experience for all clients!” 

– 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 InclusiveTM
public and private services, organizations, events and 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.

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