Questions about CalmerPlaces
Q: Is CalmerPlaces free to use?
A: Yes — completely free for families, caregivers, and anyone searching the directory. We don’t charge for access, ever.
Q: How do you verify listings?
A: We check each place against a specific set of sensory accommodations before publishing. We look for confirmed details — specific sensory hours, documented staff training, on-site quiet rooms, IBCCES certification — not general “autism-friendly” language. See our full verification standard.
Q: What does IBCCES Certified mean?
A: IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) offers a Certified Autism Center designation for public venues. It means at least 80% of a venue’s guest-facing staff have completed autism awareness certification. It’s the most widely recognized independent certification standard for public venues, and we flag it prominently where it exists.
Q: My favorite place isn’t listed. Can I suggest it?
A: Yes. Use our Add a place form to suggest a venue. We’ll verify it before publishing.
Q: I’m a venue owner. How do I get listed?
A: Visit our venue owner page for the full details. Listing is free.
Q: The information on a listing is out of date. What should I do?
A: Please use our contact form to let us know. Accuracy is everything on CalmerPlaces — we take updates seriously.
Q: Do you cover cities outside Portland?
A: Portland is our launch city. We’re building toward other cities — starting with other Pacific Northwest markets. Sign up for updates to hear when your city is added.
Q: Is CalmerPlaces affiliated with IBCCES or any other organization?
A: No. We’re an independent directory. We reference IBCCES certification because it’s the most rigorous publicly verifiable standard currently available for venues, but we have no commercial relationship with them.
Q: Who built CalmerPlaces?
A: Read our About page.