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Chicago's First Sensory-Friendly Cultural Programming Summit
When and where
Date and time
Location
Chicago Cultural Center 78 East Washington Street GAR Hall and Rotunda, 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60602
Map and directions
How to get there
Description
Visiting cultural organizations may be unsettling for visitors with sensory issues, including those on the Autism Spectrum and those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). The bombardment of sensory information, a change in routine, and concern over others' reactions to their unique needs and helpful tools can translate into a stressful--or even impossible--visit for people in the sensory community. As cultural administrators, you are invited to Chicago's First Sensory-Friendly Summit to learn how to better welcome this community to your organization:
- Join Lisa Carling and Leah Diaz from New York City's Theatre Development Fund (TDF) Autism Theatre Initiative to discover how to make sensory-friendly programming a reality.
- Hear from Rachel S. Schneider, M.A., MHC, a trained mental health counselor, educator, and writer diagnosed with SPD as an adult, as well as from a local specialist and a sensory parent to explore what is needed for a sensory-friendly visit.
- Learn from Chicago-area cultural administrators who have developed programming and services in support of this audience.
- Connect with peers from similar organizations to network, share resources, and plan first steps.
CCAC programs are always free of charge and open to the public. For this program, we recommend:
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mid-level cultural administrators from museums, theaters, zoos, gardens and other cultural spaces
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those who officially (or unofficially) are responsible for accessibility at your organization
The accessible entrance is located on Garland Court, near the Randolph Street entrance. The event space is accessible to wheelchair-users and visitors who need to avoid stairs. Open Captioning and Assistive Listening Devices available. To request additional accommodations, contact us with at least two weeks' notice: ChicagoCulturalAccess@gmail.com or 708-921-1980.
The Drake Hotel
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago State Street
Equip for Equality and Catherine Rajcan of Efficiency Reporting
Rachel Schneider
SPD Parent Zone
Starbucks
Theatre Development Fund (TDF)
Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE)