As one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas, Phoenix is ready to lead the next generation of accessible, inclusive communities, but meaningful progress requires decisive action from its leaders. Organizations across travel and hospitality, healthcare, education, and community services can move forward by becoming certified through IBCCES, gaining specialized training in autism, sensory awareness, and inclusive service delivery. From hotels enhancing guest satisfaction and healthcare providers improving patient outcomes to schools supporting diverse learners and first responders strengthening emergency response, IBCCES certification offers a proven, scalable framework for impact. By committing to certification, Phoenix’s business and civic leaders can elevate service standards, foster stronger community trust, and position the region as a future-ready destination where accessibility fuels innovation, inclusion, and long-term economic growth.
Benefits of Certification for Your City
-
Improve the quality of life for residents
-
Increase tourism and visitors from an underserved market
-
Increase community engagement
-
Enhance workforce opportunities
-
Create a distinct, inclusive brand, nationally and internationally
“The City of Mesa is known as a community with high core values and a huge heart. Not only is the Mesa Autism Initiative the right thing to do for our community but it will also help raise our profile which will help us recruit visitors, new companies and bring new jobs to our residents.”
– Mayor John Giles, City of Mesa
Community Organizations Building the Future Together
Impact on the Community
“Being a Certified Autism Destination™ means families and individuals with autism can visit our region with confidence, knowing that our attractions, hotels, and businesses have undergone training to provide a welcoming and supportive experience. We are proud to be a leader in making travel more accessible and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty, relaxation, and adventure that Greater Palm Springs has to offer.”
– Scott White, President & CEO, Visit Greater Palm Springs
Did You Know?
15 to 20% of the World’s Population is Neurodivergent
Neurodivergent individuals are those who have brains that process, learn, or behave differently from what is considered typical (neurotypical). It is an umbrella term covering conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome, often including sensory processing issues or mental health conditions like OCD.
16% of the World’s Population is Disabled
Over 1.3 billion people in the world have been diagnosed with a disability, and nearly everyone will experience at least a temporary disability sometime during their lifetime.
1 in 6 people have a sensory need or sensitivity
* Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
Current Certified Locations in the Phoenix Metro Area
Arizona Office of Tourism
Arizona Office of Tourism
The Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) strengthens and grows Arizona’s economy through travel and tourism promotion.
1110 W. Washington St., Ste. 155. Phoenix, AZ 85007
Delta Hotel Phoenix Mesa
Delta Hotel Phoenix Mesa
Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa is located in the heart of downtown Mesa, Arizona, and is a short 12 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor airport.
200 N Centennial Way, Mesa, Arizona, United States 85201
Salt River Project (SRP) Talent Acquisition
Salt River Project (SRP) Talent Acquisition
As a community-based water and power organization, SRP has a wide range of departments that work together to meet our mission of delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable water and energy.
1500 N Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ, 85281
Autism Life and Living, Inc.
Autism Life and Living, Inc.
Autism Life & Living, an Arizona non-profit, empowers youth and young adults with autism by providing programs that promote inclusion, independence, socialization, and well-being.
326 E. Coronado Rd. # 205
Phoenix, Arizona, United States 85085
Forks & Boards
Welcome to our fun and flavorful restaurant Forks and Boards, where board games meet delicious eats! Established in 2024 by passionate hospitality lovers, we’re not just a restaurant; we’re a playground for your taste buds!
1818 W Bell Rd, Suite 116, Phoenix, AZ 85023
DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix Mesa
Find us off US 60, 12 miles from Sky Harbor Airport and 10 minutes from Arizona State University. Legacy Sports Park is less than 15 minutes away. There’s a golf course next door, and we’re three miles from baseball spring training facilities.
The IBCCES Accessibility App™
Your Accessible City Guide
Every person with a disability may have different needs, and they know best what works for them. The IBCCES Accessibility App™ is a location-based platform that makes finding accessible businesses and public locations easy for people of all abilities, making it easier for you to empower visitors before they enter your location. Every certified location receives a complimentary app listing.
Find Out More About Becoming A Certified Organization
Fill out the form below to connect with a Certification Advisor for more information. An advisor will be in contact with you via phone as soon as possible.
As a certified hospitality organization or attraction, your location will be featured on AutismTravel.com, a credible resource developed by IBCCES to help autistic individuals and their families and friends connect with trained and certified destinations, attractions, and related options.
Once you become a certified healthcare, education, or local government organization, you will be featured as a certified location on AccessibilityCertified.com, a credible resource developed by IBCCES to help autistic and neurodivergent individuals and their families and friends connect with trained and certified healthcare providers, schools, and other resources.
As covered on:
