St. Augustine's parks are now waving a bright new flag for inclusivity, with St. Johns County Parks and Recreation Department recently crowned as a Certified Autism Center, a notable nod that signifies a more welcoming space for those with autism and sensory differences. This development was celebrated with high-flying kites and community glee at Treaty Park last Saturday. The Office of Public Affairs captured the festivities in a video, fostering a sense of pride among residents and officials alike.
During the event, Tess Simpson, the Community Program Manager, underscored the essence of the accreditation, "our parks, our programs, and our staff are now better equipped to serve individuals with autism and sensory differences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy our beautiful parks, our programs, and our outdoor spaces," she proclaimed on St. Johns County, signaling a broadened horizon for recreational activities. The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, which bestowed the certification last April, scrutinized the county's parks and facilities, forging sensory guides and proposing enhancements to make sure everyone's visit is nothing short of pleasant, and what's more, the parks will now be listed on IBCCES's app and on AutismTravel.com, which is a handy tool for parents scouting certified destinations.
Supporting the initiative was Clay Murphy, District 3 commissioner and vice-chair of the Board of County Commissioners, who, with the help of the Tourist Development Council funding, advocated for more inclusive public spaces. "This is such an exciting milestone for St. Johns County. We want all families to feel welcome. This is just the beginning," Murphy extolled the effort, as reported by St. Johns County officials.
The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce isn't resting on its laurels either, charging ahead with plans to make the county a Certified Autism Destination, it's an aspiration driven by recognition that with one in 36 children in the U.S. diagnosed with autism, and nearly 20% of the population sensitive to sensory processing, the Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Isabelle Renault understands that, "it’s crucial that businesses and organizations have the tools to provide a supportive and engaging environment for all," and now thanks to this momentum, the county is well past the halfway mark to achieving that goal in Florida.
At Kite Day, skies were ablaze with color as children and parents flew over 100 free kites, courtesy of Alive Credit Union's sponsorship, while Simply Healthcare Plans chipped in with free ice pops, adding a sweet note to a day dedicated to awareness and inclusion. Even Brianna Angulo from IBCCES took the podium, highlighting Parks and Recreation's dedication and handed out a framed certificate to Simpson and Jamie Baccari, the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation.
