Segra Park is Certified Sensory Inclusive 

COLUMBIA, SC – KultureCity has partnered with the Columbia Fireflies to make Segra Park and all of the programs and events that the venue hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that visits Segra Park.

The certification process entailed the staff at Segra Park 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 (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Segra Park 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 major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Segra Park. With its new certification, the Columbia Fireflies are now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at Segra Park.

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 Segra Park.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that the Columbia Fireflies 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 Segra Park to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.

“We are excited to partner with KultureCity and make Segra Park a more accommodating place for guests that have sensory challenges,” said Brad Shank, Fireflies Team President. “A ballpark can be overwhelming with a lot of sensory input, and by providing options to help in situations where some of our fans are feeling over-stimulated our team continues to strive to make Segra Park inclusive for everyone and Fun For ALL.”

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. 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.