Expanding Support for Sensory Processing Issues: Fraser's '10,000

Fraser, a Minneapolis-based nonprofit, has been working to break down barriers for people with autism, mental illness, and other disabilities since its founding in 1935. Recently, the organization has expanded its efforts to support individuals with sensory processing issues, providing specialized training for businesses and organizations to create more inclusive environments. For instance, **Fraser** has partnered with the **Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport** to create a sensory-friendly space, making air travel more accessible for individuals with sensory processing differences. This initiative is part of a broader movement to increase awareness and understanding of sensory processing issues, which can be triggered by harsh lighting, loud noises, and crowded spaces, making everyday activities like attending a sports event or visiting a museum feel uncomfortable or impossible. As **Gina Brady**, Fraser's sensory supports and training program manager, notes, the organization's trainings began with unsolicited requests for help from arts organizations, hair salons, and other businesses. The impact of this initiative can be seen in the growing number of organizations seeking to create more inclusive environments, such as the **Minnesota Museum of Art**, which has implemented sensory-friendly exhibits and programs. To learn more about sensory processing issues and how to create inclusive environments, visit the [[sensory-processing-disorders|Sensory Processing Disorders]] page or the [[autism|Autism]] page.

• Fraser is a Minneapolis-based nonprofit that has been working to break down barriers for people with autism, mental illness, and other disabilities since 1935
• The organization has expanded its efforts to support individuals with sensory processing issues, providing specialized training for businesses and organizations
• The implementation of sensory-friendly spaces and programs is an important step towards promoting inclusivity and accessibility
• Raising awareness and promoting understanding of sensory processing issues is crucial for creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all
• Individuals and organizations can support Fraser's initiative by participating in their trainings and implementing sensory-friendly spaces and programs

Fraser's expansion of support services for individuals with sensory processing issues is a positive development, but it is just one part of a larger effort to promote inclusivity and accessibility. While the organization's trainings and resources are valuable, more work needs to be done to address the systemic barriers that prevent individuals with sensory processing differences from fully participating in their communities. For example, the **Americans with Disabilities Act** (ADA) requires businesses to provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, but more needs to be done to ensure that these accommodations are effective and accessible. To learn more about the ADA and its requirements, visit the [[ada|Americans with Disabilities Act]] page.

Fraser's '10,000 Ways to Belong' initiative is a game-changer for individuals with sensory processing issues, providing them with the support and resources they need to fully participate in their communities. By partnering with businesses and organizations, Fraser is helping to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all. As **Gina Brady** notes, the organization's trainings have been well-received, and the demand for sensory-friendly spaces is growing. This initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with sensory processing differences, enabling them to participate more fully in their communities. To learn more about the impact of this initiative, visit the [[sensory-friendly-spaces|Sensory Friendly Spaces]] page.

Despite the best efforts of organizations like Fraser, individuals with sensory processing issues continue to face significant barriers in their daily lives. The lack of awareness and understanding of sensory processing issues among businesses and organizations means that many individuals with sensory processing differences are still excluded from participating in everyday activities. Furthermore, the implementation of sensory-friendly spaces and programs is often inconsistent, and more needs to be done to ensure that these initiatives are effective and sustainable. For example, the **National Autistic Society** has noted that many businesses and organizations lack the resources and expertise to effectively support individuals with sensory processing differences. To learn more about the challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing issues, visit the [[autism-and-sensory-processing|Autism and Sensory Processing]] page.

Originally reported by MinnPost