Riverbound Sports Paddle Co has become a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). This designation is granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), which means the staff have completed a training and certification process so that individuals and families with children with autism can enjoy the best possible experience.
Riverbound Sports joins a growing number of organizations in and around Mesa, AZ, to become certified as part of a movement initiated by Visit Mesa, culminating in the designation of Mesa as the first-ever Autism Certified City.

“We are so excited to be part of this amazing community and the collective efforts by the City of Mesa. It gives us so much joy to provide awesome on-water experiences to people visiting the valley so it only makes perfect sense to expand our demographic to those that would instead shy away. This certification reinforces our ability to share more opportunities with individuals and families eager to try,” said Cory Carlin, owner of Riverbound Sports. “And we really love our local lakes and rivers! We have options for adventure seekers to pick up rental gear and create their own experience or we have set events at various locations throughout the year where everyone is welcome. Regardless, we always have a great time.”

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in autism certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the hospitality and travel industry. More parents and individuals are seeking out destinations and organizations that have completed a certification program through an accredited source. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based best practices as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.

“Every individual deserves to be able to access and experience nature in a safe and inviting way. We’re thrilled to work with Riverbound Sports, so that all families and individuals with autism or sensory needs can have peace of mind when working with their team,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) requirements.

About IBCCES
Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

About Riverbound Sports Paddle Co.
Riverbound is a licensed outfitter with the Tonto National Forest and the staff is certified through the American Canoe Association (ACA), PaddleFit and World Paddle Association (WPA) with an emphasis on stewardship, safety and fun in everything they do! Recently, the entire staff completed the IBCCES certification to become a Certified Autism Center (CAC) in the Hospitality and Travel Industry to serve a broader community.

Founded in 2013, Riverbound Sports Stand Up Paddle Company has built the largest specialty paddle shop in the Phoenix area. The staff is trained to provide the best care and instruction to its customers with a personalized touch for every occasion. Named Trip Advisor’s Service of Excellence in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Nominated SUP Shop of the Year by SUPConnect Magazine in 2018 and 2019.
For more information on the best gear, events, lessons and rentals, call the shop or visit the website!