Sensory-Friendly Cultural Programming Summit

Learn how to better welcome guests with sensory differences

Co-presented with SPD Parent Zone. Cultural administrators are invited to Chicago’s First Sensory-Friendly Summit to learn how to better welcome those with sensory issues to your organization.

Visiting cultural organizations may be unsettling for visitors with sensory issues, including those on the Autism Spectrum and those with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). The bombardment of sensory information, a change in routine, and concern over others’ reactions to their unique needs and helpful tools can translate into a stressful–or even impossible–visit for people in the sensory community.

Thank you to our sponsors for their generous support:

  • SPD Parent Zone
  • Rachel Schneider
  • Equip for Equality
  • Starbucks
  • Catherine Rajcan, Efficiency Reporting
  • Theatre Development Fund (TDF)
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago, Magnificent Mile
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago, State Street
  • The Drake Hotel
  • Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
Inspired by Denver’s Sensory-Friendly Summit

Archived Event Videos

Sensory-Friendly Summit

Archived Event Speakers

  • Welcome, Christena Gunther (Founder and Co-Chair of CCAC) and Kelly Jurecko (Co-Founder of SPD Parent Zone)
  • Introduction to the Autism Spectrum, Katie Hench (Co-Founder and CEO of Infiniteach)
  • Experiencing Culture with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Rachel Schneider (SPD Adult and author)
  • Autism Theatre Initiative at Theatre Development Fund, Lisa Carling (Director of Accessibility Programs, TDF) and Leah Diaz (TDF Accessibility Programs Coordinator)
  • Local Sensory-Friendly Programming Panel
    • Erica Foster, Operations Director & Accessibility Coordinator at Lifeline Theatre Company
    • Carey Randall, Marketing Manager, Blue Man Group Chicago
    • Jacqueline Russell, Founder and Artistic Director of Red Kite Project, Chicago Children’s Theatre,
    • Lynn Walsh, Founding Co-Chair, CCAC