Birmingham Nonprofit Works to Make the World More Sensory Inclusive
In the bustling city of Birmingham, a heartfelt mission is underway to create a more inclusive environment for individuals with sensory challenges. A decade ago, a family faced difficulties dining out due to their autistic son’s reactions to crowded and noisy places. This led to a path that would change the way many organizations approach sensory sensitivity today.
The Birth of KultureCity
Dr. Michele Kong, a pediatric critical care physician, and her husband, Dr. Julian Maha, an emergency room physician, founded KultureCity out of personal necessity and frustration. After feeling isolated while out in public spaces, they thought, “Why do we have to be different from other families?” This pivotal question spurred them to create a groundbreaking nonprofit that now partners with over 1,800 organizations across the country.
Education is Key
KultureCity provides training for various institutions including schools, restaurants, and even sports venues. The organization’s mission is simple yet impactful: to teach sensory accessibility and acceptance. Organizations such as the NFL, NHL, and NBA have joined forces with KultureCity to adopt these crucial practices, highlighting the growing need for understanding sensory processing issues.
Why is Sensory Accessibility Important?
Believe it or not, one in four individuals experiences some form of sensory processing challenges. These can range from loud sounds and bright lights to overwhelming crowds and even distinct smells. As Dr. Kong shared from her own experiences, “Inclusion and accessibility for individuals who face these challenges are significant issues.”
Groundbreaking Collaborations
The impact of KultureCity is expanding rapidly. The iconic Harry Potter exhibition in New York has sought their training, while the beloved Danish toy company Lego has pledged to make all their stores in the U.S. and Canada sensory certified through KultureCity. Notably, Philadelphia became the first Sensory Inclusive City through the efforts of KultureCity, aiming to create spaces that are welcoming for those with invisible disabilities.
Training and Tools
Everyday locations are benefitting from KultureCity’s expertise. The program includes training on how to identify signs of overwhelm in individuals and how to respond appropriately. For instance, the Orion Amphitheater in Huntsville has adopted KultureCity’s training for their front-facing staff to ensure concertgoers feel safe and understood.
Partner organizations benefit from a wealth of resources, including sensory bags that contain noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, strobe-reduction glasses, visual cue cards, and weighted lap pads. They even have a mobile sensory activation vehicle that can bring the sensory experience directly to events.
Community Impact
KultureCity’s journey began with the Birmingham Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo event, marking their first training partnership. Tiffaney McClendon, director of learning and inclusion at the zoo, reflects on their collaboration, noting that “Team members have learned to be more mindful of individuals with specific sensory needs.” Over the years, the partnership has blossomed, benefiting many families in the community.
A Future of Acceptance
With over 3,000 unique partners and a reach extending to 24 countries, KultureCity’s mission shows no signs of stopping. Their aim is for everyone to understand that a child having a tough time might be overwhelmed, not misbehaved. This vital shift in perspective is essential to creating a world that celebrates inclusion and understanding.
The work being done here in Birmingham proves that a little empathy and education can go a long way. As the efforts of KultureCity continue to grow, more families can look forward to enjoying public spaces without fear of judgment or exclusion.
