Summit County has taken steps to become a more autism-friendly community over the past few years. Here are some institutions that are already making changes.
• Akron Children’s Hospital: Updated behavioral health unit and dental clinic both have sensory-friendly spaces available. Similar spaces are being taken into consideration for the hospital’s new expansion as well.
• Akron YMCA: Working with the Autism Society of Greater Akron to train all staff how to best support people with autism and their families. The YMCA will also launch a “Swimming with Autism” program this fall.
• Akron-Summit, Barberton and Stow libraries: Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board has worked with Akron and Barberton libraries on staff inclusion training. Akron branches and Stow Library participate in Autism Awareness Month displays.
•Akron Art Museum: Working with the autism society to develop special educational programs and train all employees on how to accommodate individuals with autism and their families.
• Akron Zoo: Launching a sensory inclusive environment with a ribbon cutting sometime around August.
• All-American Soap Box Derby: Hosted Inclusion Day (formerly Autism Day) the past four years. This year’s event is Aug. 12. For more information, visit http://www.soapboxderby.org/derby-downs.aspx.
• Canal Park/RubberDucks: Hosted Inclusion Day the past two years with Summit DD in the summer. Date this year is to be determined.
• Canton Palace Theatre: Announced an eight-week Sensory Cinema movie series, which starts June 19 with The Secret Life of Pets. For more information, visit http://www.cantonpalacetheatre.org/sensorycinema.
• Lock 3: Partnered with Summit DD the past two years for sensory-friendly time during Winterfest in December. Summit DD is working with the venue for a more inclusive environment.
• Summit Metro Parks: Working with the autism society to develop special educational programs, train employees.