Visalia has been designated the first-ever Certified Autism Destination in the country, awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This designation means that autistic visitors can travel with confidence knowing that we are prioritizing accessibility and inclusion. To help families make their travel plans, we have compiled local resources that will help.

Because of the number of tourism partners throughout the city that have completed specialized training through IBCCES and are now Certified Autism Center, we are now a Certified Autism Destination.

The requirements to become a CAC through IBCCES include training at least 80% of guest or public-facing staff in autism and sensory disorders through IBCCES. The process may also include an onsite review, as well as the creation of sensory guides for attractions and interactive spaces. The goal is to better prepare staff and management to serve individuals with autism or sensory needs. The certification must be renewed every 2 years with updated training provided for staff at each certified organization.

For travel and leisure-related organizations, such as hotels, attractions, and visitor services, staff are trained to better understand what autism is (and isn’t), how to empathize and understand how individuals with autism experience the world, communicate more effectively, and be aware of common sensitivities and concerns in a recreational environment.

Our CAC partner list is growing! These partners have committed to completing the training to be certified by IBCCES as a Certified Autism Center.