The City of Coral Springs is marking Autism Awareness Month with a series of events dedicated to promoting inclusivity and supporting the neurodiverse community. Kicking off the month, the Coral Springs Gymnasium will have sensory materials available throughout April for residents to utilize at 2501 Coral Springs Drive.
Festivities began with the "Boogie Down Dance" on Friday, April 4, at the Senior Center at Sartory Hall, where attendees enjoyed themed dances and refreshments. The Touch-A-Truck event on April 5, offered individuals the rare opportunity to freely explore city vehicles and equipment and engage with emergency personnel. The city also took the time to encourage registration for their Special Needs Database to better prepare first responders for emergencies involving individuals with cognitive impairments, as per the details published on Coral Springs' official website.
In continuation of the month-long awareness efforts, the Hoppin' Into Springs Egg Hunt on April 12 will feature a sensory-friendly time slot early in the event to accommodate children with sensory sensitivities. Moreover, on the same day, families can visit the Coral Springs Museum of Art, which is a KultureCity® certified Sensory Inclusive venue, offering free admission and sensory kits that include noise-canceling headphones and fidget tools to make the experience more accessible.
Later in the month, on April 26, the "Saturday Social Club" at the Senior Center at Sartory Hall promises to offer a day of specially curated entertainment for individuals over the age of ten with unique needs, at $22 per participant. The following day, a Sensory Walk at Cypress Hammock Park is designed to help participants of all abilities to truly enjoy the natural setting with sensory stations. To round off the month, "Exceptional Voices Together: A Community Forum" invites the public on April 29 to discuss, share, and expand on Coral Springs’ commitment to inclusivity.
For more information on these events, or to learn how to get involved, residents can reach out to the City of Coral Springs by calling 954-344-1144 or by emailing [email protected]. With the community's active participation, Coral Springs aims to not only raise awareness but also to foster an environment where every individual, regardless of neurological differences, can feel a sense of belonging and support.
