The Columbia Association Aquatics Department (CA) is proud to announce its designation as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This prestigious certification underscores CA’s dedication to fostering inclusive environments and programs for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, along with their families.
To achieve this designation, CA’s staff underwent a comprehensive training and certification process to enhance their ability to serve these community members. IBCCES also conducted an onsite evaluation to provide insights into improving facilities and creating detailed sensory guides. According to CA Aquatics Director Matt Helfrich, “This is a meaningful step toward better serving individuals with autism that we’re incredibly proud of.” He emphasizes that IBCCES is recognized as a leading benchmark for autism training and certification worldwide, and this accreditation is a testament to CA’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
All 23 swimming facilities managed by CA now feature comprehensive sensory guides to help prepare visiting families for the environment’s sensory impact. Additionally, each location is equipped with sensory bags containing items like noise-canceling headphones, sensory water timers, and fidget toys to aid in accommodating sensory needs.
CA has a long-standing collaboration with the Autism Society of Maryland, which has been instrumental in training its over 300 lifeguards and managers in autism awareness for the last eight years. Melissa Rosenberg, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Maryland, highlights the importance of families feeling welcome and comfortable outside their homes. She expresses pride in working with CA to ensure that facilities across Columbia provide a safe and inclusive space.
This summer, CA introduces Macgill’s Commons Pool as a designated sensory-friendly swimming area. The pool’s lifeguards will accommodate autistic children by allowing them to swim during adult swim times with prior notice and adult supervision. Myron Pincomb, board chairman of IBCCES, emphasizes the significance of water safety and comfort in aquatic settings for all community members, especially those with autism. He applauds the partnership with Columbia Association to make their aquatics offerings more welcoming for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals.
IBCCES has led the charge in autism, neurodiversity, and cognitive disorder training and certification for the past two decades. The organization provides expert training and ongoing support to professionals across health care, education, and corporate sectors globally. IBCCES also maintains AutismTravel.com, an online platform that assists parents in finding certified locations and professionals who meet the rigorous standards of a Certified Autism Center™.
