In Birmingham, Alabama last weekend, Carnival Cruise Line received KultureCity’s Human Highlight Award at the organization’s annual gala, KultureBall.
As the first major cruise line to be certified “sensory inclusive” by KultureCity in 2019, Carnival developed a close partnership with the non-profit KultureCity, and helped a family in need who was unable to fly home to New Jersey after a trip to Aruba.
Carnival Cruise Line is honored with a special award
The world’s largest cruise line based on passengers carried, Carnival Cruise Line, was honored with KultureCity’s Human Highlight Award for an act of kindness last weekend.
KultureCity’s Human Highlight Award honors a special organization that “never makes it possible,” going above and beyond to advocate for sensory inclusion and acceptance of those with disabilities.
The award was picked up from the line at KultureBall, the organization’s annual national gala, in Birmingham, Alabama, last weekend. During the ceremony, KultureCity surprised Carnival Cruise Line by inviting mother, Jamie Greene, to personally administer the award.
The non-profit organization, KultureCity, proudly partners with the cruise line and reached out to Carnival about Jamie and Elijah’s situation. Once the line realized it could return them to the United States on one of its ships, the line opened Carnival horizon for the family to board on May 31 in Aruba.
After arriving in Miami, the featured family was returned to their home in New Jersey by KultureCity volunteers. Carnival Cruise Line is certified as “sensory inclusive” by KultureCity and was the first cruise line operator to be certified by the nonprofit organization in 2019.
“We felt strongly about the challenging situation Jamie and her son Elijah were in and it was only natural for us to step in and do the right thing to help this family get home safely.” said Vicky Rey, Vice President of Guest Care and Communications at Carnival Cruise Line.
“We work every day to make a difference in people’s lives and are grateful for the opportunity to help and for this special recognition.” she added.
As an all-sensory ship, the line’s partnership with KultureCity provides training and education to the organization’s team members in hopes of creating positive vacation experiences for all.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Sensory and Disability Inclusions
Established in 1972, the cruise line strives to provide an inclusive atmosphere for all guests throughout its fleet of 23, known for its Caribbean cruises.
In partnership with KultureCity, every Carnival ship offers KultureCity sensory bags that include items to help soothe, relax and manage sensory overload while on vacation.
Keeping all guests comfortable, KultureCity Sensory Bags feature noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, a visual sensing thermometer and a KultureCity VIP lanyard, helping Carnival team members easily identify guests.
Throughout its fleet, Carnival offers significant accommodations for all its guests, with and without special needs. The line’s awareness of those with “invisible disabilities” is top-notch, including special extra accommodations through guest services and even a private safety briefing.
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Childcare offerings on board also have resources to help calm, soothe and entertain children participating in youth programs. Some of the comprehensive youth care options available include weighted vests, conversation cards, sensory play and extra aids.
On in-room televisions, informative videos are available for viewing, creating more awareness among all guests. These fleet-wide informational videos feature actor Christopher Gorham, a member of KultureCity’s Board of Directors.
