Palm Desert Offers Autism Certification Support

City of Palm Desert First in Valley to Offer Autism Certification Support for Local Businesses

PALM DESERT —This city is the first municipality in the Coachella Valley, and only the fourth in the nation, to initiate the Autism Certification Reimbursement Program, an initiative designed to promote inclusivity and enhance visitor experiences by supporting local businesses in becoming Certified Autism Centers (CAC).

By introducing such a program, Palm Desert is positioning itself as a leader in inclusive tourism. Through this program, businesses can receive grants to cover the costs of certification through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

Palm Desert took its first steps toward autism inclusion earlier this year, to have its staff certified by IBCCES. Building on this success, the city is now extending the effort to the business community with a $30,000 reimbursement program. Eligible businesses can receive up to $2,500 to help cover the costs of certification.

Certified businesses gain access to training for 80% of their staff, improving autism awareness and understanding. This enables them to better support individuals with autism and their families, creating a more welcoming environment for all visitors. Local businesses such as The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, JW Marriott Resort and Spa, and the Joslyn Center have already achieved certification, showcasing the program’s success in fostering inclusivity.

Visit Greater Palm Springs is now a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC), a designation granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The CAC designation is awarded to organizations that have completed autism training to better understand and welcome autistic visitors and their families.

The focus on ensuring accessibility is important, especially with 1 in 44 children in the US diagnosed with autism, according to the CDC, and 1 in 6 people with sensory needs or sensitivities. Travelers with disabilities take millions of trips every year, but there are few destinations with a variety of options that have taken the extra step cohesively to better understand and enhance accommodations for these visitors.

“We are thrilled to work with Visit Greater Palm Springs as the team expands its focus on accessibility and ensuring that autistic visitors and their families can have wonderful experiences,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Organizations like Visit Greater Palm Springs are vital in pushing the industry forward to be more inclusive and welcoming for ALL travelers.”

Businesses interested in joining the Autism Certification Reimbursement Program can apply by contacting Mariela Salazar at [email protected] or (760) 776-6441.