Via Aquarium | Inclusive Rec Database

Section C: Administrative Practices

Agency Mission and Values

Does the agency mission clearly reflect a belief about inclusion of people with disabilities and other differences?

N/A

Do agency vision and values articulate support for inclusion of people with disabilities and other differences?

N/A

Comments/additional information about agency mission:

No agency mission is stated on the website. Ashley, point of contact, expressed that the staff and facility wanted to foster inclusion and enjoyment for all guests.

Staff

Does upper administration (e.g., board of directors, administrators, managers) show support for inclusion?

Yes

Is a point of contact or ADA coordinator designated to coordinate inclusion at the agency? (preferably a certified therapeutic recreation specialist)

Yes

Name	Title	Phone	Email
Ashley Watson	Marketing and Public relations manager	518-694-2625
Ashley Watson	Marketing and Public relations manager	518-694-2625

Are managers and front line staff trained in disability awareness & inclusion as a routine part of staff training?

Yes

If yes, list main topics covered in training

Sensory and physical accommodations

When observed, or when asked in an interview, do staff members interact with people with disabilities in a helpful and respectful manner?

Yes

Comments/additional information about agency staff:

Staff have been helpful and accommodating each time I visited with people with disabilities.

Agency Planning

Are people with disabilities and/or their families involved in agency planning efforts? (e.g., board of directors, advisory board, public input)

Yes

If yes, list types of involvement/input:

Input is sought from all program groups after they complete their visit or program

Is the agency involved in ongoing plans for inclusion and accessibility?'

If yes, has the agency made progress on identified areas in plan?

N/A

Comments/additional information about agency planning:

Free days for people with disabilities and sensory friendly days were present before the pandemic shutdown, and more will be held in the future. Ask Ashley for more details, or check out Facebook for more updates

Agency Communication and Marketing

Is person first language used in written materials?

N/A

Is person first language used in oral communication?

Yes

Are alternative forms of communication available?

Yes

If yes, check the alternative forms of communication available:

Sign

Do marketing and other printed agency materials reflect inclusion of people with disabilities? (e.g., access information provided, people with disabilities pictured in publications or on web site)

Is the agency website usable by people of all abilities? (e.g., simple design, consistent navigation, alt text for graphics, high contrast, no flashing/blinking features)

Yes

Comments/additional information about agency communication and marketing:

The Aquarium website features lots of low contrast graphics and text, which could be difficult for those with vision difficulties. The website is simply and clearly laid out for things like buying tickets and learning about programs.

Agency Policies and Procedures

Are emergency warning and evacuation procedures in place for safe exit of people with disabilities? (e.g., auditory and visual alarm systems, areas of rescue assistance identified)

Yes

Is all staff trained in the procedures for safe evacuation of people with disabilities in the event of an emergency?

Yes

Is there a written policy about the use of service animals?

Yes

Is there a written policy about the use of motorized mobility devices?

Yes

Do personal care attendants attend free when accompanying a person with a disability?

Yes

If applicable, do prices for services accommodate people with financial need?

Yes

If applicable, are special dietary needs met?

N/A

Comments/additional information about agency policies and procedures:

Those with shellfish allergies should ask for accommodation for the stingray feeding program. Non- shellfish food can be provided. For severe allergies, it is recommended guests refrain from touching or feeding the rays, as there are trace amounts of shellfish contaminants in the water.

Evaluation

Does the agency conduct evaluation on an ongoing basis and at the end of programs/services?

Yes

If yes, does evaluation include feedback on inclusion, accessibility or use of supports & accommodations?

Yes

Partnerships and Collaboration

Does the agency have partnerships with disability and other community organizations?

If yes, please list:

Notes About Administrative Practices

No content available

Via Aquarium
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Assessment

Section C: Administrative Practices

Agency Mission and Values

Staff

Agency Planning

Agency Communication and Marketing

Agency Policies and Procedures

Evaluation

Partnerships and Collaboration

Notes About Administrative Practices

Via Aquarium Back to Agency

Assessment

Section C: Administrative Practices

Agency Mission and Values

Staff

Agency Planning

Agency Communication and Marketing

Agency Policies and Procedures

Evaluation

Partnerships and Collaboration

Notes About Administrative Practices

Via Aquarium
Back to Agency