Comfort Suites and Hampton Inn Visalia have earned the Certified Autism Center™ designation, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The CAC designation is awarded to organizations that have met certification requirements and completed training to learn how to better understand, welcome, and communicate with guests who are autistic or have sensory needs. 

“Comfort Suites and Hampton Inn are excited to be the first hotels in Visalia to become Certified Autism Centers™. Our staff completed autism-specific training and certification to ensure both teams are better equipped to provide excellent service and experiences to all our guests,” shared Anil Chagan, President of Infinite Hospitality.

Hampton Inn Visalia, and its sister company Comfort Suites Visalia, have joined other certified community locations, including Valley Oak Golf Course and Downtown Visalians, as part of an effort initiated by Visit Visalia to attain the Certified Autism Destination designation. IBCCES grants the Certified Autism Destination designation to communities where visitors have access to a multitude of trained and certified options when looking for entertainment, recreation, and hotel choices in the area.

Other accommodations at Hampton Inn and Comfort Suites include an expedited check-in and check-out process, a separate space for breakfast if needed, and low sensory areas. Both hotels also implemented the Sunflower lanyard program so staff can identify those guests who may need additional assistance and will have headphones and other items to assist individuals with sensory sensitivities to utilize during their stay.

“IBCCES is proud to support Comfort Suites and Hampton Inn Visalia on this journey to ensure all visitors can feel welcome at their locations, and as Visalia become a more inclusive destination overall,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

For more than 20 years, IBCCES has been the leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many individuals and families with different needs have limited travel and recreation options or may find it difficult when planning outings or trips. IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for attractions, hotels, zoos, aquariums, and other recreational locations in response to this need. IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for attractions, hotels, zoos, aquariums, and other recreational areas. 

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