Aligned with the Greater Palm Springs area’s push to become a Certified Autism Destination (CAD), the Palm Springs Convention Center, managed by ASM Global, has become the first convention center in California to achieve the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The staff underwent training to enhance their ability to serve guests with autism and other sensory sensitivities. To attain CAD status, the destination must ensure a variety of trained and certified individuals are available in customer-facing businesses, such as lodging, restaurants, retail, and entertainment.
Additionally, service representatives at the two visitor centers run by the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism also completed specialized autism training, enabling them to provide a hospitable space for those seeking tourist information and to highlight Palm Springs restaurants, hotels, and attractions that are CACs. IBCCES—a recognized provider of professional autism and neurodiversity training, and certifications—offers programs for professionals in the education, healthcare, corporate, travel, and entertainment industries across the globe.
IBCCES provides evidence-based training and certification programs developed in collaboration with its board of clinical and subject matter experts, as well as autistic individuals, to enhance professionals’ understanding of autism and other neurodivergent conditions. Rob Hampton, general manager of the Palm Springs Convention Center, expressed pride in achieving this designation, stating, “We are honored and proud to become a Certified Autism Center, reflecting our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and our dedication to providing a welcoming environment for autistic individuals.”
