KULTURECITY

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program's inception, KultureCity has created over 900 sensory-inclusive venues in 5 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend.

"Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Bradley Symphony Center are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We're honored to partner with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Bradley Symphony Center to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!" - Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like the Bradley Symphony Center. With its new certification, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and Bradley Symphony Center are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at the Bradley Symphony Center.

 

What is the sensory inclusion initiative?

The sensory inclusion initiative is designed to help arenas, zoos, aquariums, museums, restaurants and other places of public attraction better entertain their guests that might have sensory needs/sensory processing issues.

 

What is a sensory need/sensory processing issues?

A sensory need/sensory processing issues is one where the guest affected by this finds noises, smells, lights and even crowds not only overwhelming from the sensory perspective but also sometimes physically painful. Because of this, these guests often find themselves isolated from the community.

 

What is the difference between sensory inclusion and sensory friendly?

Sensory friendly is one where the location has had all the potentially noxious stimuli removed. Because this is sometimes a difficult task, accessibility is therefore limited to the day and location of the sensory friendly event. Sensory inclusion liberates that. It creates daily accessibility with training, tools and other modifications that although do not remove the noxious stimuli, help the guest cope with this potential sensory over stimulation better thus ensuring an accepting and inclusive experience for all.

 

What are some groups that are affected by sensory need/sensory processing issues?

These could be guests with PTSD, autism, early onset dementia, anxiety, stroke patients just to name a few.

 

How does partnering with KultureCity help?

KultureCity helps by providing the necessary training to better entertain guests with these needs. They also provide signage, weighted lap pads, sensory bags that contain noise cancelling headphones, fidgets tools and much more in order to truly create a welcoming experience for these guests.

 

What is the end result of the initiative?

It helps all guests feel welcome and included in our locations. It also helps us reach a huge portion of our community that has long been isolated.

 

How many people have a disability in the USA?

1 in 5. With 16% having visible disabilities and the remanding 84% with invisible disabilities like PTSD, autism, dementia, strokes etc. The common denominator for these groups are sensory issues.