Overland Park is the first convention center in the world to open a KultureCity approved sensory room for neurodiverse, autistic and disabled attendees.
In partnership with non-profit KultureCity, the sensory room is a dedicated space created by medical 
professionals with reduced lighting and noise for guests who may feel overstimulated and need a more secure environment.
The certification process equipped venue staff by training with leading medical professionals on how to recognize those attendees with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. 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 over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in event venues. With this new certification, the convention center is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities so that all can attend and feel comfortable.
Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards (produced in conjunction with Boardmaker), and weighted lap pads are also available to all guests at the convention center who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where they can view what sensory features are available at the convention center and where they can access them. The apps ‘Social Story’ feature also provides a preview of what to expect while at the venue.
“To know that you soon will be able to see families attend a basketball game, a true community binding experience, with their loved ones who have a sensory challenge and who were not able to previously attend, is truly a heartwarming moment,” said Dr. Julian Maha, Co-Founder of KultureCity. “Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Overland Park Convention Center is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing.”
