In partnership with Children's Hospital New Orleans, Beignet Fest Foundation has commissioned KultureCity to build a sensory activation vehicle that can be used at local events. The fully equipped tow-along trailer, known as Benny's Sensory Activation Vehicle, is designed to offer a respite and decompression space for individuals who may become overwhelmed from the crowds, sounds, and sights of many of the city's beloved events.
The sensory activation vehicle, which was made possible with proceeds from the 2022 Beignet Fest, features a range of specially designed elements aimed at calming the mind and engaging users. These include a bubble wall, wooden puzzles, soft bean bag chairs, and an interactive colored-light panel. The sensory bags, which contain items such as headphones and fidget toys, will also be available to borrow through the program at events.
Beignet Fest Foundation is also recruiting staff to facilitate the activities for the sensory activation vehicle onsite at events. Staffers will go through training and certification with KultureCity to become knowledgeable and adept at working with individuals with sensory needs. New Orleans & Co, a partner of Beignet Fest Foundation, is underwriting the cost of having the fully staffed sensory activation vehicle at 10 festivals this year, which will be identified in the coming weeks.
"New Orleans is known far and wide as a city that is welcoming to everyone. We are happy to support this community project to make New Orleans an even more welcoming and accessible city. This vehicle will empower residents and visitors who may become overstimulated at many of our festivals and celebrations to be able to attend and participate in a meaningful way and add to the beautiful sense of community we celebrate in New Orleans," said Walt Leger, president & CEO of New Orleans & Co. Beignet Fest Foundation hopes that the sensory activation vehicle will enable families to get out and enjoy the city's culture together, bringing along their loved ones who may need a place to take a break, explore, play, and reset.
To learn more about Benny's Sensory Activation Vehicle and how to make upcoming events more inclusive for those with sensory needs, email info@beignetfest.com.
