Clearwater aims to become Autism Certified City

CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater is working toward being the first city in Florida and the second in the nation to be designated an Autism Certified City.

“It means Clearwater’s a welcoming place for children with autism, for families traveling with autism, we want to make sure that our community welcomes people in with all kinds of unique abilities,” said Executive Director of the Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT) Matt Spence. “The purpose of LiFT is to inspire and empower people with neurodiversity to learn, thrive and succeed.”

He hopes the initiative helps spread that success throughout the city. He says that’s why LiFT is leading the initiative to ensure Clearwater is an inclusive community, supportive and accessible to those with neurodiversity.

Michael Soler’s son, Jacob has been attending LiFT for three years.

“We found out he did have autism, he was on the spectrum, he had processing sensory delay as well,” said Soler who supports the initiative.

Part of the process to get certified, which relies on community partners, would mean specialized training in areas of: hospitality, healthcare, small businesses, education and entertainment, to make sure residents and visitors feel supported.

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) is responsible for running the certification program. The group says the initiative creates an inclusive community, but it can also:

• Improve the quality of life for residents
• Increase tourism and visitors from underserved markets
• Increase community engagement
• Enhance workforce opportunities 
• Create national & international inclusion

“We have facilities and community partners that are aware that sometimes students need a little extra time, they might need a low sensory space, they might need an opportunity to just express themselves differently,” said Spence.

It’s that effort and support that mean the world to Soler.

“I think the primary thing is acceptance,” said Soler.  “When you’re out with a child with autism there are certain things that look and may feel a little bit different as you see a child with autism and their mannerisms but they’re kids, they have the same wants, loves and desires as all of our children do.”

Spence hopes the initiative, which officially launches Sept. 25, helps the community understand and support those wants and needs.

Clearwater Mayor, Bruce Rector says he is proud of the initiative.

“It’s really about just making sure that everyone knows that Clearwater cares about folks with autism and families dealing with autism,” said Rector. “We want to make their experience here whether they live here or visiting, the best it can possibly be.”