The Alamo Earns KultureCity Certification to Welcome Visitors with Sensory Needs

October 10, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

CONTACT
Jonathan Huhn, Alamo Trust, Inc.
jhuhn@thealamo.org
Office (210) 225-1391x6064
Mobile (210) 867-7717

Front view of Alamo Church with iconic parapet and seal of Kulture City certification

The Alamo has partnered with KultureCity to make the Shrine of Texas Liberty and all of the site's hosted programs and events sensory-inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all visitors with sensory sensitivities.
 
The certification process entailed Alamo staff to be trained to recognize and help accommodate visitors who have sensory sensitivities. Audiovisual aid-equipped bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and a weighted lap pad will also be available to all patrons at the Alamo who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
 
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 significant barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which, at certain times, can be a part of the environment at Texas's number one tourist destination. With its new certification, the Alamo is better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any on-site events.
 
Prior to visiting, guests can download the free KultureCity App, where one can view what sensory features are available.  Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying a visit to the Alamo.

"The Alamo, part of Texas's only UNESCO World Heritage site, is the Lone Star State's most visited tourist destination with 1.6 million annual visitors. This vital partnership with KultureCity reinforces our commitment that the historic site is accessible to everyone. Most importantly, it helps ensure guests with sensory needs have an enjoyable experience when visiting the Shrine of Texas Liberty", said Kate Rogers, Executive Director of the Alamo Trust, Inc.  
 
“Our communities are what shapes our lives, and to know that the Alamo is 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 Alamo to provide a truly inclusive experience for all visitors!” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.

About Alamo Trust, Inc. | Located in the heart of San Antonio, the Alamo serves as a sacred memorial to all those who lived, fought and died there. Visitors pay homage to the heroes of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, a defining moment in Texas History. Alamo Trust, Inc., or the Alamo, tells that story of Texas independence, as part of its 300-year history to over 1.6 million visitors every year. To visit the Alamo is to witness living history, experience authentic artifacts and admire an iconic landmark that shaped the country. Visit theAlamo.org.

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 1,000 sensory-inclusive venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All-Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.