Tuesday, May 21, 2024 The Columbia Association Aquatics Department (CA) is excited to become the first in Maryland to be designated as a Certified Autism CenterTM (CAC) by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This distinction underscores the department’s dedication to fostering inclusive environments and programs for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, along with their families. The staff underwent an extensive training and certification process to enhance their ability to serve these community members.
IBCCES also provided an onsite evaluation to offer insights into improving their facilities and creating detailed sensory guides as a part of the certification. “This is a meaningful step toward better serving individuals with autism that we’re incredibly proud of,” says CA Aquatics Director Matt Helfrich . “IBCCES is recognized around the world as a leading benchmark for autism training and certification.
This accreditation is another way that CA is working to prioritize accessibility and ensure that all families in Columbia feel fully welcome and supported in our spaces.” All 23 swimming facilities managed by CA feature comprehensive sensory guides to help prepare visiting families for the sensory impact of the environment. Additionally, each location is equipped with sensory bags containing items like noise-canceling headphones, sensory water timers, and fidget toys to aid in accommodating sensory n.
