Full-service dive center Blu Water Scuba has earned the designation of Certified Autism Center™ (CAC), awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This demonstrates their commitment to ensuring individuals with autism and other sensory needs have the best possible experience when visiting their center or taking a dive class. They now hold the distinction of being the first such facility in Virginia to complete the training needed to receive this designation.
Blu Water Scuba has served the dive community since 2010. They provide fun, safe, and affordable diving lessons that engage the whole family. Blu Water Scuba also offers certification for divers of all ages and skill levels. Scuba and other aquatic activities can be very enjoyable and beneficial for individuals with autism, however new experiences and sensory stimulation can be a challenge. By obtaining certification through IBCCES, Blu Water Scuba is ready to meet these challenges head-on with a wealth of skills and knowledge to help fulfill sensory needs, as well as safety concerns unique to those on the spectrum.
“Here at Blu Water Scuba we don’t believe disabilities should limit anyone from experiencing the most they can out of life. We have witnessed how scuba has opened up a different world for individuals with autism and we are dedicated to helping enrich every person we meet,” said owner and trainer Tom McKee.
For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the leader in cognitive disorder certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based information as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.
“Blue Water Scuba’s commitment to providing the very best possible experience for all individuals exploring the immersive world of diving is commendable and we are excited to see the opportunities that arise for them and those they serve,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.
IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for families and individuals looking for travel and recreation options that lists certified destinations and travel professionals. Each destination listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) requirements.
About Blu Water Scuba:
Blu Water Scuba is a full service dive training Center, serving the dive community since 2010. Interested in diving? We can take care of all your training needs, from learning to dive to teaching others to dive. Whether you’re a snorkeler, an avid diver or looking for a new hobby, Blu Water Scuba has the course for you. We offer fun, safe and affordable scuba diving lessons that are fun for the whole family and certification for divers of all ages and skill levels.
About IBCCES:
Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.
Learn More About Becoming a Certified Autism Center™
Fill out the form below to learn more about our CAC Program, which includes staff certifications, training options and center certification.
