FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
THE DETROIT ZOO EARNS AUTISM ALLIANCE OF MICHIGAN’S FIRST ALLIANCE SEAL OF APPROVAL
Royal Oak, Michigan (May 3, 2016) — The Autism Alliance of Michigan is proud to present its first Autism Alliance Seal of Approval to the Detroit Zoo (8450 W. 10 Mile Road) on May 16, 2016, at 2 p.m. at the Zoo entrance.
For years, the Detroit Zoo has offered routine autism safety training to all volunteers and staff. In addition, it has maintained a social narrative and safety audit handy for visitors. The Zoo’s efforts have made it the first location to meet all of AAoM’s requirements for an approved seal.
Other historic, cultural and recreational venues across Michigan have also joined forces with AAoM to better welcome and accommodate families affected by autism. AAoM prepares these community partners with proper materials and training to ensure that they are able to design a safe and autism-friendly environment, all while diversifying their businesses.
In an effort to be both fair and transparent, Autism Alliance is sharing the requirements to be considered for the Autism Awareness Approved seal.
Venues pursuing the seal must meet the following Autism Awareness Approved Requirements:
- Venue will offer all-staff safety training to ensure the staff knows how to interact and protect individuals with autism.
- Venue will prepare a social narrative and/or sensory map to help families prepare for their visit. AAoM can provide this service as needed.
- Venue will undergo a free Safety and Sensory Audit Walk-Through with a member of AAoM’s Safety or Programmatic Staff.
Once a venue is approved, Autism Alliance of Michigan will provide the following benefits:
- a formal AAoM presentation and plaque to be displayed at the entrance to the venue
- a shared AAoM seal to be included on venue marketing materials as an autism-friendly destination
- an announcement in an AAoM press release, along with a personally presented plaque for press presence
- exposure on official AAoM social media accounts
- inclusion on AAoM materials
- inclusion on AAoM’s Community page as a Community Partner
For information on events, resources and donations, please visit www.autismallianceofmichigan.org.
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