Sharks for All

AWSC Accessibility Programs

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is working hard to improve accessibility so that all visitors can engage in shark education. We have several new initiatives in 2025 to better serve the community.

Kulture City Certified

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is Kulture City certified. As an organization, our staff and volunteers have gone through their sensory inclusive training to develop an understanding of what it means to have sensory needs. Our Shark Center facility now has sensory bags onsite to aid anyone who can benefit from those resources, as well as labeled areas where noises are louder and possibly overwhelming. These resources are available during general admission, school visits, and AWSC programming.

Sensory Friendly Visits

Our Sensory Friendly Program offers dedicated time for families with sensory needs. During these times, we offer accommodations that increase access to exhibits and provide an opportunity for families to network with one another in an understanding, ADA-compliant environment. While the event title indicates the focus for certain program accommodations, any family that would benefit from a sensory friendly visit is welcome at any time. A medical diagnosis is not required to benefit from this program.

Museum admission is required for our Sensory Friendly Program. To create a quieter environment for families, we limit the number of visitors for this program. Please register in advance to ensure admittance. Accommodations we make during this program are:

- Reduced number of guests in the museum

- Lower lighting

- Video volumes at a minimum

- Sensory bags available

- Quiet space for individuals who may need it (If available, Chatham only)

- Staff and volunteers trained by Autism Alliance

You can prepare for your visit by reviewing our Shark Center Social Story.

Visual Interpreting with Aira

Aira is an app that connects people who are blind or low vision to professional visual interpreters for secure access to visual information, anytime, anywhere.

Visitors who require visual interpretation can download the Aira app to work with an interpreter as they explore our Shark Center museums.

Museum admission is required and visitors are responsible for having their own device to utilize the app.

We welcome any feedback on our accessibility features as we can continue to grow and better serve the community.