Brecksville United Methodist Church is a Certified Sensory Inclusive Facility
Since 2017, Brecksville United Methodist Church has partnered with KultureCity® to earn Sensory Inclusive™ Certified status, which helps us live into our mission of creating safe spaces for everyone to grow with God and one another!
This lifelong learning enhances our ability to assist and accommodate people with sensory needs. Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other conditions. It is estimated that one in four people experience sensory dysregulation. Individuals might become overwhelmed from the lights, sounds, smells or other external stimuli.
Through this training, which is open to everyone in the church and important for our welcome team, we strive to raise awareness of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing needs. We are committed to annual training and encourage everyone to commit 30 minutes of time to this free, online certification.
We offer the following resources and accommodations at our church.
KultureCity® Sensory bags
KultureCity® Sensory bags containing communication cards, fidget tools, weighted lap blankets and noise-canceling headphones are available for use at church. Sensory bags can be used by those of all abilities of all ages. Ask a Welcome Team member or the office.
Social Story and KultureCity® App
KultureCity® has put together a social story to guide visitors through what to expect during a visit to church: https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/brecksville-united-methodist-church
You can also download the KultureCity® App for iPhone or Android to find other sensory inclusive venues:
- App Store: http://bit.ly/KCiphone
- Google Play: http://bit.ly/KCandroid
By achieving Sensory Inclusive™ Certification through our partnership with KultureCity®, Brecksville United Methodist Church is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all. Worship is a personal experience, and we want everyone to feel comfortable, welcome, included and affirmed here.
With resources like sensory bags, social stories, and ongoing staff and volunteer training, we are taking steps to ensure that our facility is a safe and inclusive space for everyone in our community.
Do you have questions or feedback? We would love to hear it!