First Coast Cultural Center renews autism certification

First Coast Cultural Center in St. Augustine renewed its Certified Autism Center designation through IBCCES, extending its effort to serve autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors. The renewal also supports St. Johns County’s broader push toward Certified Autism Destination status.

Why it matters: - The renewal keeps First Coast Cultural Center aligned with autism-accessibility standards for visitors and families who benefit from sensory-aware services. - The certification supports St. Johns County’s broader effort to become a Certified Autism Destination, where multiple venues meet autism-training requirements. - The center’s accessibility work affects how local arts programming, events and classes are experienced by the community.

What happened: - First Coast Cultural Center renewed its Certified Autism Center designation through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards on July 10, 2026. - The center is in St. Augustine, Florida. - The renewal recognizes continued commitment to accessibility and inclusion for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests. - At least 80% of guest-facing staff must complete updated autism-specific training and certification through IBCCES to maintain the designation.

The details: - Silvia Romero, executive director at First Coast Cultural Center, said the center is committed to serving as an autism-safe space and making creative expression accessible to every individual. - Ashleigh Cruze, development director, said the certification changed how she thinks about accessibility and focuses attention on comfort from the moment visitors walk in. - Mike Story, a retired principal and special education teacher, said small adjustments can make a big difference in helping guests feel seen and supported. - Jennifer Marsey, a mother and patron, said staff patience and understanding make it easier for her family to relax and enjoy their time at the center. - The center launched its Spring Artisan Festival in March as a local art and handmade-goods event designed to be welcoming and accessible. - The festival was held both indoors and outdoors. - Following its debut, the Spring Artisan Festival will become an annual event. - First Coast Cultural Center is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which is free to download. - The app offers real-time guidance on certified destinations, sensory-friendly spaces and tailored recommendations. - IBCCES also offers AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com as free online tools that list certified locations and professionals. - Each organization listed on those sites has met IBCCES certification requirements.

Between the lines: - The renewal is not just a one-time badge. It requires ongoing staff training and certification updates, which can shape daily operations. - The county-level Certified Autism Destination effort suggests accessibility is becoming part of regional tourism and community planning, not only a single-venue initiative. - The center’s inclusion on IBCCES tools gives families a way to find the venue before they arrive, which can reduce uncertainty for sensory-sensitive visitors.

What’s next: - First Coast Cultural Center will keep maintaining the staff training and certification required for the CAC designation. - The Spring Artisan Festival will return each year as a recurring accessible community event. - St. Johns County will continue building toward Certified Autism Destination status with trained and certified options across recreation, entertainment and lodging.

The bottom line: - First Coast Cultural Center is making accessibility part of its operating model, while also supporting a wider county push to make St. Johns County more welcoming for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors.