The Autism Welcoming Initiative Website Project

This grant to Advocates and The Autism Alliance of MetroWest (AAMW) is aimed at building a dedicated website for the Autism Welcoming project. This initiative was launched in 2019 to train and promote sensory-responsive businesses and organizations that intentionally take extra steps to create an accepting and inclusive community by educating staff and making impactful accommodations to the location and business operations. The program serves Greater Boston, Greater Worcester, the Greater MetroWest region, and beyond. So far, they have certified 40 businesses. The hope is that a dedicated website will enhance their ability to reach more businesses and sustain partnerships as they build their training and education capacity. They are making a special effort to highlight businesses and accommodations that will specifically improve the community experiences of autistic adults.