St. Johns County Parks and Recreation has renewed its Certified Autism Center designation after at least 80% of its staff completed updated autism and sensory training.

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, or IBCCES, announced the renewal Sept. 22. St. Johns County announced it locally Oct. 5. IBCCES

The department first earned the designation in April 2024. During the original certification process, IBCCES conducted on-site reviews of county parks and facilities and developed sensory guides designed to help visitors prepare for different sensory experiences. St. Johns County

Staff complete updated autism and sensory training

Tess Simpson, community program manager for St. Johns County Parks and Recreation, said the renewal represents an ongoing effort to make county programs and facilities more accessible.

"This isn't something we want to accomplish once," Simpson said in the county's announcement. "It's a commitment we want to continue building on year after year." St. Johns County

The certification requires at least 80% of staff to complete autism and sensory training. IBCCES said the updated training gives employees practical strategies for recognizing and responding to different sensory and support needs. IBCCES

The department also incorporates that training into its day-to-day operations across county parks, programs, events and facilities.

County works toward broader autism destination designation

The parks department's certification is part of a broader accessibility initiative led by the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce.

IBCCES said the initiative is working toward having St. Johns County designated a Certified Autism Destination, which requires multiple organizations in areas such as tourism, recreation, entertainment and lodging to complete autism and sensory training, certification and facility reviews. IBCCES

Myron Pincomb, CEO and board chairman of IBCCES, said the parks department's renewal builds on its earlier accessibility work and strengthens its ability to provide inclusive recreational experiences throughout the county.

Certified locations can be found through AutismTravel.com and the free IBCCES Accessibility App, which provides information about certified destinations and sensory-inclusive spaces. IBCCES

Family Color Run set for Nov. 14

The parks department's upcoming events include its third annual Family Color Run 5K at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 State Road 207 in Elkton.

The mostly off-road event is open to all ages and fitness levels and includes color stations along the route. Registration costs $25 and includes professional timing and a commemorative medal. St. Johns County

The first Family Color Run was held in 2024, and participation doubled during its second year, according to the county. St. Johns County