(Caption: Visitors to the museum can request a sensory bag like this one, which includes items to help them stay calm and enjoy the museum with their friends and family.)
KultureCity has partnered with the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum (ALLM) on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) to make the facility and its programs and events sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue that visit the museum.
The certification process entailed training of the ALLM staff by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests 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 the front desk of the museum who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. These guests will also be able to use a dedicated quiet area for those who may need a quieter and more secure environment.
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 venue like the ALLM. With its new certification, the ALLM is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event at the museum.
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 the ALLM.
“We’re proud to partner with KultureCity to make the ALLM welcoming to all,” said ALLM Program Coordinator Natalie Sweet. “As the museum exits a two-year renovation project, complete with better accessibility throughout the building, it is a natural step for us to carry the excellence that began with construction through to our programming.”
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum is 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 the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, executive director, KultureCity.
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 700 sensory-inclusive venues in four 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.
The Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum’s multimillion dollar renovation continues its excellence as an award-winning museum, which includes the Past President’s Award from the Tennessee Association of Museums in 2019 and multiple Awards of Excellence from 2019-2021. The museum is available for tours to the public, schools, and special interest groups. Interested parties can reserve a tour by calling 423.869.6235.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in the liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423.869.6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
