Disease Vector Education Center earns Certified Autism Center designation

The Disease Vector Education Center in St. Johns County, Florida, has earned Certified Autism Center status from IBCCES after staff completed autism and sensory training. The designation supports county efforts to become a Certified Autism Destination and broaden access for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors.

Why it matters: - The Certified Autism Center designation is meant to make the Disease Vector Education Center more accessible for autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors and their families. - The certification also supports a county-wide effort to position St. Johns County as a Certified Autism Destination, which would expand certified options for learning, recreation, lodging and entertainment. - Better accessibility can help the center serve more visitors and reduce barriers to educational and community programs.

What happened: - The Disease Vector Education Center, part of the Anastasia Mosquito Control District of St. Johns County, Florida, received Certified Autism Center status from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. - Staff completed autism and sensory training to prepare them to welcome and assist visitors with sensory needs. - The announcement was made in St. Augustine, Florida, on July 15, 2026.

The details: - DVEC serves students, educators, healthcare professionals, disease vector and pest control professionals, and community members. - The center focuses on prevention of vector-borne diseases and pests and on promoting a safer and healthier environment. - Planned accessibility efforts include accessible routes, accommodations for sensory needs, guest-specific support planning, sensory breaks, quiet zones and real-time programming adjustments. - DVEC is also looking into exhibit accommodations and enhancements. - The center plans low-sensory spaces, sensory kits, flexible activity formats and staff trained in sensory-inclusive engagement. - DVEC is featured on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which offers guidance on certified destinations and sensory-friendly spaces. - IBCCES also operates AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com as free resources that list certified locations and professionals.

Between the lines: - The certification gives DVEC a formal framework for accessibility rather than a one-time training exercise. - The county initiative suggests St. Johns County is trying to build a broader visitor ecosystem for neurodiverse travelers, not just improve one venue. - IBCCES is using certifications, apps and destination programs to create a network effect across tourism, education and public-facing organizations.

What's next: - DVEC said it will continue implementing accommodations and accessibility upgrades. - The St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce-led effort will keep pursuing additional certifications to reach the Certified Autism Destination designation. - More certified venues would widen options for residents and visitors who need sensory-aware spaces and services.

The bottom line: - DVEC’s certification is both an internal accessibility upgrade and a building block in St. Johns County’s broader autism-friendly destination strategy.