KultureCity® and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Unveil Innovative Sensory Activation Vehicle

BIRMINGHAM, AL - Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud to announce the unveiling of a state-of-the-art SAV (sensory activation vehicle) in collaboration with KultureCity^®. This SAV, designed to cater to the needs of individuals with sensory processing needs, is set to revolutionize the way we experience public spaces for live events and special activations.

The initiative is part of Blue Cross' commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all community members, ensuring that individuals with sensory sensitivities can enjoy cultural and recreational venues without barriers.

With input from sensory experts, the SAV is thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of sensory needs, incorporating elements such as adjustable lighting, calming visuals, and comfortable seating. A range of sensory tools and equipment such as bubble walls, Yogibo bean bags, Nunoerin sparkle, and tactile objects are available to create a personalized and calming experience. The SAV is designed to be fully accessible, accommodating individuals of all abilities and ages, with features such as wheelchair accessibility.

"It is an honor to partner with KultureCity® to make the sensory activation vehicle possible to ensure everyone can be included in community events," said Sophie Martin, Director, Corporate Communications and Community Relations, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. "SAV has already been part of several local events and it's rewarding to see the positive impact it's making for individuals of all abilities."

In addition, every year, staff volunteering at the SAV are 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 (produced in conjunction with Boardmaker) and weighted lap pads have been available to all guests at events who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

"We are thrilled to collaborate with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama on the introduction of a new SAV, specifically to meet the needs of our beloved city, and state. At KultureCity^®, our mission is to create a world where everyone, regardless of their unique sensory profile, can fully enjoy and participate in community experiences. This SAV represents a crucial step towards sensory accessibility and inclusivity, providing a welcoming space where individuals with different sensory needs can engage with their surroundings comfortably. We applaud Blue Cross for their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment, and we are confident that this initiative will have a positive impact on the lives of many in our community." - Michele Kong, MD, MBA, Co-founder of KultureCity^®.

Prior to attending an event, families and individuals 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.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for over 88 years. Blue Cross offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market. For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue.com. Connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube and follow us on Twitter for more up-to-date information. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

About KultureCity®

KultureCity^®, established in 2014, is a dynamic non-profit organization at the forefront of the inclusivity movement which continues to make waves in creating a more accessible and accepting world for individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities (found in 1 in 4 of us). In a short 10 years, a few highlights of KultureCity's impact includes making over 2000 venues sensory inclusive certified, handing out almost a million sensory bags to individuals in need, making over 150 live events sensory inclusive, and saving 48 lives through the KultureCity^® First Responder Training. KultureCity's commitment to inclusivity extends beyond physical spaces. The organization actively collaborates with influential figures, businesses, and communities to promote awareness and understanding of invisible disabilities. KultureCity^® partners with event industry leaders like NFL, NBA, MLB, FIFA and most recently Lego to make their flagship events and stores sensory inclusive. With ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and a passionate community of supporters, KultureCity^® is set to leave an enduring impact on the landscape of inclusivity.