Baltimore Convention Center Achieves Prestigious KultureCity® Certification, Furthering Commitment to Accessibly and Inclusivity
BALTIMORE, MD (Wednesday, October 9, 2024) – The Baltimore Convention Center today announced a partnership with KultureCity®, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with sensory needs. Through this collaboration, the Baltimore Convention Center has achieved Sensory Inclusive™ certification, reinforcing the Center’s commitment to providing a welcoming and accommodating environment for all guests.
The Sensory Inclusive™ program, pioneered by KultureCity®, is designed to better equip venues to assist individuals with sensory sensitivities, including those with autism, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), dementia, and other sensory disabilities. As part of the certification process, over 100 Baltimore Convention Center staff received specialized training from medical professionals and neurodivergent experts to recognize and support individuals who may experience sensory overload. This training ensures the team is prepared to respond compassionately and effectively when a guest may feel overwhelmed.
“At the Baltimore Convention Center, creating an inclusive and accessible experience is at the core of how we serve our guests every day,” said Mac Campbell, Executive Director of the Center. “This partnership with KultureCity® takes our commitment to accessibility and inclusion further by ensuring that guests with sensory sensitivities can feel supported and comfortable while in our building. This work is about more than accessibility—it’s about creating a space where every visit feels seamless for those who use our space.”
As part of this initiative, sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will be available to guests who may need them. These resources are designed to help individuals manage the environmental stimuli during events including loud sounds, bright lights, or crowded spaces.
In addition to on-site resources, families and guests can download the free KultureCity® App, which provides detailed information on the sensory features available. The app includes a Social Story feature that offers a visual preview of what to expect when attending an event, helping guests plan their visit with greater confidence and ease.
"We are thrilled to partner with the Baltimore Convention Center in their efforts to create a more inclusive environment for individuals with sensory needs," said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity®. "Together, we are championing a world where every individual is not just accepted but celebrated for their unique contributions to society."
About KultureCity®
KultureCity®, established in 2014, is a dynamic non-profit organization at the forefront of the inclusivity movement that continues to make waves in creating a more accessible and accepting world for individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities (found in 1 in 4 of us). The organization actively collaborates with influential figures, businesses, and communities to promote awareness and understanding of invisible disabilities. KultureCity® partners with event industry leaders like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and FIFA to make their flagship events sensory-inclusive. With ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and a passionate community of supporters, KultureCity® is set to leave an enduring impact on the landscape of inclusivity.