Enterprise Center partners with KultureCity to become sensory inclusive

ST. LOUIS, MO - KultureCity has partnered with Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre to make the venues and events be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits both venues.

"For the past few years, Stifel Theatre has been offering sensory friendly performances at family shows in order to give children the opportunity to experience their favorite characters," said Todd Mitchell, General Manager, Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre. "We are thrilled to be able to have both Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre increase and expand our efforts by becoming certified in sensory inclusivity."
The certification process entailed the staff being trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
The sensory bags will be available effective immediately at the Enterprise Center Guest Services Center located on the north side of the Plaza concourse outside Portal 18 and the Stifel Theatre Guest Services Center located on the east side of the Ticket Lobby.
"By having the sensory bags available, people with sensory sensitivities will be able to enjoy the variety of experiences we have to offer," said Mitchell.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. 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 venues that host a variety of events. With its new certification, both Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event.
Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at either venue.
"To know that you soon will be able to see families attend a hockey game or concert, true community binding experiences, with their loved ones who have a sensory challenge and who were not able to previously attend, is truly a heartwarming moment. Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that both Enterprise Center and Stifel Theatre are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing." Dr. Julian Maha, Co-Founder, KultureCity.
KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using their 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 350 sensory inclusive venues in 4 countries; this includes special events such as: NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts: NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017, Cleveland Cavaliers' Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. Recently, KultureCity was awarded one of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2019 by FastCompany.