Why become a Certified Autism Center?
The Chamber is working on important initiative that has the potential to elevate St. Johns County as a leader in inclusive tourism and community engagement: becoming a Certified Autism Destination.
To achieve this recognition, we need participation from local businesses and organizations to earn Certified Autism Center status — an internationally recognized designation awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. This certification demonstrates your commitment to serving individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities by providing autism-specific training for staff and making small but impactful changes to enhance the guest experience.
Why This Matters:
- Inclusive Economic Growth: Families with autistic individuals often plan travel based on destinations that can accommodate their needs. Becoming a CAD makes St. Johns County more welcoming to these families, opening the door to a growing segment of tourism.
- Community Impact: CAC training empowers your team to confidently and compassionately serve all individuals, improving the overall customer experience and strengthening our community's reputation for hospitality.
- Regional Leadership: By participating, your business or organization becomes part of a broader, county-wide effort to make St. Johns County a model of accessibility and inclusion on Florida’s First Coast.
We invite you to learn more about the certification process and how your organization can get involved. Together, we can create an environment where every visitor and resident feels welcome, supported, and included.