PPL Center Becomes Certified Sensory Inclusive
October 20, 2022 – American Hockey League (AHL) – Lehigh Valley Phantoms News Release
Allentown, PA – PPL Center has partnered with KultureCity to make Lehigh Valley Phantoms
games and other programs and events sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an
accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue that
visit PPL Center.
The certification process entailed PPL Center staff being trained by leading medical
professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to
handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling
headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted
lap pads will also be available to all guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment,
at the Phoebe Ministries Guest Services Desk inside PPL Center.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by
individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One
of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is
an enormous part of the environment in a sports & entertainment venue. With its new
certification, PPL Center is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in
having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending
any event at the arena.
Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App where one can
view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the
App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an
event at PPL Center.
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the PPL Center is willing to go
the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community
is amazing. We’re honored to partner with PPL Center to provide a truly inclusive experience
for all fans and guests!” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.
KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to
revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just
those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000
sensory-inclusive venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl,
NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many
awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017
and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers/
Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken
Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award, KultureCity was named one
of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently
won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.
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