Citi Field is Certified Sensory Inclusive Through KultureCity

NEW YORK, April 29, 2019 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- KultureCity has partnered with Citi Field and New York Mets to make them and all of the programs and events that the ballpark 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 Citi Field.

The certification process entailed the staff at Citi Field being 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, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Citi Field 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. 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 Citi Field. With its new certification, Citi Field is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Citi Field.

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.

"To know that you soon will be able to see families attend a basketball game, a true community binding experience, with their loved ones who have a sensory challenge and who were not able to previously attend, is truly a heartwarming moment. Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that Citi Field and New York Mets are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing." Dr. Julian Maha, Co-Founder, KultureCity.

"We are proud for Citi Field to be a sensory inclusive ballpark and create an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion. Our partnership with KultureCity helps us join this important movement", Eric Petersen, Director, New York Mets.

KultureCity has several other certified venues in New York City such as: NBA Store on 5th Ave, Barclays Arena, Metlife Stadium, Madison Square Garden, Prudential Center; they are in the process of training numerous other venues in New York City.

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using their 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 200 sensory inclusive venues in 3 countries; this includes special events such as: NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts: NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017, Cleveland Cavaliers' Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. Recently, KultureCity was awarded one of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2019 by FastCompany.

SOURCE KultureCity