Oct 5, 2023
TD Garden And Kulturecity Partner To Provide Inclusive Experience For Fans With Sensory Needs
Boston, MA (10.04.2023) – TD Garden has partnered with KultureCity – the nation’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities – to make all events hosted at the arena sensory inclusive.
During the offseason, TD Garden was certified by KultureCity to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs. The certification process entailed staff training by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all guests at Guest Services located on Level 4, Loge 4.
As part of the arena’s ongoing commitment to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment, TD Garden also debuted four new sensory rooms on Wednesday – the largest number of sensory rooms in a single venue worldwide.
These sensory rooms are designed to offer a calm and comfortable space for individuals who may need a break from the sensory overload often associated with larger events. The sensory rooms are scattered throughout the arena with locations on Levels 4, 5, 7 & 9. In addition to the sensory rooms, sensory bags will be available for fans use during games and events.
“Our partnership with KultureCity exemplifies our dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all guests. These sensory rooms are more than just spaces; they are bridges to inclusion, allowing everyone to enjoy the magic of live events without limitations,” said Amy Latimer, President of TD Garden.
KultureCity has been a trailblazer in implementing sensory accommodations across various venues worldwide. Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals on the autism spectrum, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions.
“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that TD Garden is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with TD Garden, Boston Bruins and Boston Celtics to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests,” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director of KultureCity.
The launch of these sensory efforts reflects TD Garden’s commitment to foster diversity and ensure that everyone can enjoy the excitement of live events without barriers.
About Kulture City
KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,800 Sensory Inclusive public and private services, organizations, events and venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.
About TD Garden
TD Garden, owned and operated by Delaware North, first opened its doors to the public on September 30, 1995. In the 25+ years since, the venue has generated more than $365 million in direct economic impact to the Greater Boston