What
Beaches Resorts is the first resort company to attain the Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC) designation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). In 2017, it was the first resort company to earn recognition as a Certified Autism Center.
Why It Matters
According to a 2018 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 59 children are diagnosed with autism — a 15% increase from two years prior. It’s more important than ever that the travel industry is equipped to take care of this growing family travel segment.
Fast Facts
- The new certification training will be completed in May and will span all three Beaches properties, including Beaches Negril Beach Resort & Spa, and Beaches Ocho Rios Spa, Golf & Waterpark Resort in Jamaica; and Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa in Turks & Caicos.
- The core focus will be on Beaches’ Kids Camp, entertainment and watersports operations, as well as staff from other areas of the resort.
- The ACAC designation refers to the next level of certification once an organization has earned the CAC certification. The process entails an in-depth training of 40 credit hours on autism sensitivity and awareness; activities and accommodations available for guests on the spectrum; an annual on-site audit and review; substantial change to protocols and physical space to accommodate various needs; and more.
What They Are Saying
“We are proud to continue paving the way for families with individuals who have special needs, including children on the autism spectrum, to travel comfortably and truly live up to our tagline: the ‘Resorts for Everyone,’” said Adam Stewart, deputy chairman of Sandals Resorts International. “As a family-built brand, we want to provide all families with a superior level of service that makes them feel the most welcomed at our resorts. We are especially excited to further expand this important training to our resort’s watersports program, with PADI-certified dive professionals and other team members earning a special ‘ACAC’ designation for each Aqua Center at Beaches, allowing children on the spectrum to safely experience the incredible waters of the Caribbean.”
“Beaches Resorts has gone above and beyond to lead the hospitality industry toward a more inclusive future for all families seeking unforgettable vacations tailored to their needs,” said Myron Pincomb, board chairman of IBCCES. “By becoming the first resorts to achieve the ACAC certification, Beaches is even more prepared to welcome families with autism, and we applaud them for their ongoing commitment and leadership in providing travel options for this underserved market.”
The Details
Beaches Resorts
www.beaches.com
