Advocates Autism Alliance is celebrating its 100th certification through its Autism Welcoming℠ program with the recent certification of Coolidge Corner Theatre. This milestone marks significant growth of a statewide network of businesses and community organizations working to create more inclusive, sensory-responsive and accessible spaces for individuals with autism and their families.
Since launching in 2019, Autism Welcoming℠ has partnered with businesses and community organizations to provide staff with autism-specific training and help organizations identify practical ways to make their spaces more welcoming and accessible. Organizations certified through the program receive ongoing consultation and support, customized sensory calm-kits, visual supports and resources to welcome the autism community.
“Reaching 100 certified businesses means 100 more places where people with autism and their families can feel welcome, participate in everyday experiences and build greater independence. We know that everyday outings can present challenges for individuals with autism and their families. Over the last seven years, our goal with Autism Welcoming has been to show businesses that small, thoughtful changes can make a world of difference. We are thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Coolidge Corner Theatre and help make the joy of going to the movies at one of New England’s most prominent theaters a more sensory-friendly experience.”
–Allison Daigle, CTRS, executive director of Advocates Autism Alliance
As the program’s 100th certified organization, Coolidge Corner Theatre worked closely with Autism Welcoming℠ to identify ways to make the moviegoing experience more welcoming and accessible for guests with autism and other sensory and accessibility needs.
“The magic of the movies should be an experience everyone can enjoy,” said Beth Gilligan, executive director and CEO of Coolidge Corner Theatre. “Becoming Autism Welcoming℠ certified gives us meaningful, practical ways to better support guests with autism and sensory needs. Accessibility has always been important to how we operate and partnering with Autism Alliance has helped more individuals and families feel comfortable, included and excited to experience film at the Coolidge.”
about relaxed screenings
The theater hosted its first Relaxed Screening on October 4, 2026, featuring the 1985 classic film, Back to the Future. During Relaxed Screenings, house lights remain partially raised, sound levels are lowered and open captions are displayed. Guests are welcome to move around, vocalize, stretch, or leave and return to the theater during the film.
The Coolidge also introduced sensory calm-kits available at concessions, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, fidgets and other sensory supports. The theater is developing a designated chillout zone, signage and feedback mechanisms as part of its ongoing accessibility efforts.
In addition to Autism Welcoming℠ supports, the Coolidge has existing accessibility efforts, including offering open-caption screenings, assisted listening devices, accessible seating, ramps and elevators, and ADA-accessible restrooms.
