Have you seen this Sensory Activation Vehicle around Alabama?

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DYK that one in four individuals has a sensory need?

Knowing that sounds, lights or crowds overwhelm many people, Birmingham-based KultureCity creates programs and initiatives like mobile sensory stations, portable bags and the Sensory Activation Vehicles (S.A.V.E.).

Keep reading to learn why these vehicles are important and where you can find them across Alabama.

KultureCity leads the nation in sensory accessibility

The statistic of one in four individuals with a sensory need can include those with PTSD, autism, dementia, strokes and more.

According to KultureCity, common sounds, lights, crowds and certain smells can be overwhelming or even physically painful.

This leads many individuals to withdraw from public spaces due to repeated experiences of being unable to participate and enjoy themselves.

By providing sensory kits and vehicles, KultureCity creates a safe haven in busy places for someone who’s feeling overwhelmed to come back to a sense of calm.

“KultureCity’s mission is to ensure inclusion and accessibility for everyone.

For me, this is the most human thing we can do—everyone needs to know they belong.”

Michele Kong, Professor of Pediatrics + Co-Founder, KultureCity

What is a Sensory Activation Vehicle?

Sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, S.A.V.E. brings a mobile sensory experience to any event that lacks a physical space for a dedicated sensory room.

Think concerts, sporting events, conferences—you name it. S.A.V.E. ensures all guests are included.

“S.A.V.E. provides a calm space for an individual to decompress when overwhelmed. It’s designed with specific elements such as tactile and bubble walls, adaptive seating and more.”

Michele Kong, Professor of Pediatrics + Co-Founder, KultureCity

The vehicles were created to:

• Allow individuals to have a calming break during an event
• Bring sensory relief to locations that don’t have interior physical space for a sensory room
• Provide a quick sensory refuge for those with sensory needs
• Enable families to attend events together with their loved ones with sensory needs

Bringing S.A.V.E. to Alabama

“The idea for the Sensory Activation Vehicle came up several years ago when there was severe flooding in Texas.

In a time of disaster, there is so much uncertainty, and for individuals with disabilities, it can be particularly overwhelming. S.A.V.E. allows for a mobile safe space to be readily accessible for them.”

Michele Kong, Professor of Pediatrics + Co-Founder, KultureCity 

Where can I find it?

You can find the S.A.V.E. in areas surrounding Birmingham and across Alabama.

One of our team members experienced the vehicle at the annual Indy Grand Prix.

“Last year, my autistic husband who has auditory sensitivities and I went to the Children’s of Alabama Indy Grand Prix. Even with earplugs, the cars were really loud.

We were so excited to discover the KultureCity Van, which gave us a nice calm place to recharge before heading back out to where the action was.” 

Sharron Swain, Managing Producer, Bham Now

Through these vehicles, the sensory activation bags and so much more, individuals with sensory needs can be included in all events.

Learn more + get a S.A.V.E. at your next event.

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