New Partnership Provides More Options for Individuals With Autism

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 14, 2019 (Newswire.com) - ​​​​Autism is a developmental disability that affects an ever-increasing number of children and adults across the U.S. and the globe. Two of the most influential organizations in this space are now working together to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum. The Autism Society of America and the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) announced  a significant partnership that will allow the oldest and largest autism grassroots autism organization in the world and the industry leader in training and certification to work together to increase the quality of life and services provided to individuals on the spectrum. Specifically for families who want to travel or experience attractions but are hesitant due to potential lack of awareness or accommodations, this partnership will further the work already being done by IBCCES and the Autism Society to ensure all families have options.

Dr. Temple Grandin, prominent author and speaker on autism, says of the partnership, “Individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) need autism-certified recreational activities. Many times, we concentrate on housing and education, neglecting the need for ‘fun.’ We do the same activities - roller skating, movies and outdoor activities, never thinking outside the box. Having other opportunities will increase individuals’ quality of life immensely. I will always encourage people providing experiences from organizations that are committed and understand people with an ASD.”

The Autism Society of America serves over 650,000 individuals and families annually through Information & Referral (I&R), support, community events/connections, advocacy and education. The Autism Society has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for more than 50 years and envisions a world where individuals and families are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued.   

"We are very fortunate to partner with IBCCES to provide important and well-qualified travel and entertainment options for so many families and individuals impacted by autism. As a result of IBCCES’ industry-leading certifications programs, individuals and families are assured of the highest level of accommodations and responsiveness by those receiving this certification," said Scott Badesch, president and CEO of Autism Society of America.  

Together, these two leading organizations represent nearly two million parents and professionals who serve individuals with autism and other cognitive disorders. 

“As someone who serves on the Panel of People on the Spectrum of Autism Advisors (PSA) for the Autism Society and as a board member of IBCCES, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the tremendous work that both these groups continue to provide for our community. I’m thrilled with this endorsement from the Autism Society and I hope our families will be excited as they look at all the inclusive travel options IBCCES continues to provide. I can’t stress the impact that this will have in terms of forward progress as when I was growing up on the autism spectrum, I could only dream about having these options available for me and my family,” says Kerry Magro, best-selling author, international speaker and disability advocate.

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in autism training for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES is the only training and certification program endorsed by Autism Society and focuses on working with industry leaders in the travel, healthcare and education space to ensure professionals who work with individuals on the spectrum are trained and certified in autism and other cognitive disorders. The impact of this partnership will directly impact the travel and hospitality organizations, such as Beaches Resorts, Marriott, Carnival, Sea World and others that IBCCES works with to ensure staff is prepared to welcome guests with sensory sensitivities.

Dr. Stephen Shore, autism speaker and advocate, said, “In an unprecedented manner, the IBCCES Certified Autism Center program continues to expand travel options for people on the autism spectrum and their families. The work of IBCCES brings us closer to where understanding and support of the autism community by travel providers and destination points will become the rule rather than the exception."

The IBCCES board is composed of individuals on the spectrum, along with experts from a variety of disciplines, including neuroscience, special education and psychology, who share best practices and evidence-based strategies for these professionals. 

“Our goal is to work with our corporate partners to create travel and entertainment options for individuals and families with autism. We are excited to learn that Certified Autism Center program is the only certification in the world endorsed by Autism Society which is the leading parent-based autism association with a global presence,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. 

IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com and CertifiedAutismCenter.com as a trusted resource for individuals and families with children on the spectrum to connect with certified organizations, leading healthcare professionals and each other.

About Autism Society of America

The Autism Society of America has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for over 50 years and envisions a world where individuals and families living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued. We provide advocacy, education, information and referral, support and community at national, state and local levels through our strong nationwide network of over 80 local affiliates. Annually, over 650,000 people are served directly by the Autism Society national network and over one million people are provided information services.

About IBCCES

Delivering the Global Standard for Training and Certification in the Field of Cognitive Disorders 

IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders. As part of our commitment to sharing the latest innovations and research, IBCCES also hosts the International Symposium on Cognitive Research and Disorders to create a forum for collaboration among industry stakeholders.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Scott Badesch, President/CEO
Autism Society of America
301-657-0881 ext 9018
[email protected]

Meredith Tekin, President
IBCCES
904.508.0135
[email protected]

Source: IBCCES