Mesa becomes the 1st Autism-Certified city in the U.S. and the EVHCC is part of it

City of Mesa, AZ is the 1st Autism-Certified city in the U.S.

On Monday, November 18th, we attended the Visit Mesa’s Autism Certified Launch. Mesa is the first city in the county to be Autism Certified.  We are also proud that the EVHCC has joined the initiative.  This initiative was the brainchild of Marc Garcia, President, and CEO of Visit Mesa.

What is an Autism Certified City?  

The ACC designation, awarded by IBCCES, is given to communities where key stakeholders, including healthcare, education, local government, hospitality, leisure, and corporate members are trained and certified to better serve individuals with autism and other cognitive disorders.  Mesa is the first city to be designated as such.   

What is a Certified Autism Center?


The requirement to become a CAC through IBCCES include training at least 80% of guest or public-facing staff in autism and sensory disorders through IBCCES.  The process may also include n onsite review, as well as the creation of sensory guides for attractions and interactive spaces.  The goal is to better prepare staff and management to serve individuals with autism or sensory needs.  The certification must be renewed every two years with updated training provided for staff at each certified organization.  

Approximately 4,000 total community members have completed the autism certification training. “With Visit Mesa leading the charge, Mesa is rolling out the welcome mat for individuals on the autism spectrum,” Mesa Mayor John Giles said in the release. “We commend Marc Garcia and the staff at the Visit Mesa for their vision.”

The East Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is proud to be part of this project that moves the City of Mesa forward into growth not just for our community, but even more so to thrive to help those in the Autism spectrum. We hope that our involvement encourages Hispanic Business Owners in the East Valley to join the cause and help our city grow and improve.

Message us on our social media or email info@evhcc.wpengine.com if you would like more information on how to get certified.

Editorial Team

Editorial Team

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