Autism Foundation of Oklahoma renews autism center credential

The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma renewed its Certified Autism Center designation from IBCCES on Aug. 31, 2026, marking its second renewal since first earning the credential in 2022. The renewal underscores the nonprofit’s focus on autism training, community support and accessibility across Oklahoma.

Why it matters: - The renewal keeps the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma aligned with a credential meant to improve how organizations serve autistic people and their families. - The designation requires staff training and ongoing best practices that can affect day-to-day experiences in community-facing services. - AFO’s work spans advocacy, education, employment, health and safety, so the renewal reaches beyond one program or office.

What happened: - The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma renewed its Certified Autism Center designation through IBCCES on Aug. 31, 2026, in Oklahoma City. - AFO first earned the CAC designation in 2022. - AFO renewed the designation in 2024, making this its second renewal in 2026. - At least 80% of community-facing staff completed specialized autism and sensory training to keep the designation.

The details: - The training is designed to build understanding of autism and give staff practical strategies for more welcoming and supportive experiences. - IBCCES provides ongoing support, resources and renewal requirements to encourage continued learning and use of best practices. - Emily Scott, executive director of the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma, said the renewal reaffirms the organization’s commitment to the autistic community and to knowledgeable, compassionate and affirming support. - Krista Lewis, chief program officer at Family & Children’s Services, said AFO has helped prepare the organization to provide IDD-Informed Mental Health Services and expand access through shared events, training, education and advocacy. - AFO’s programs include Autism Advocacy Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol, monthly social outings for neurodivergent adults, the Unmasking Autism with AFO podcast and the Surviving the Spectrum documentary. - AFO also offers autism training and consultations for childcare providers, virtual parenting classes and foster parent trainings. - Employment and transition programs include Autism Friendly Business Certification, LEAD: Neurodiversity in the Workplace, Partners in Success and employment readiness workshops. - Health and safety offerings include training for legal, healthcare, mental health and law enforcement professionals, plus sensory kits and first-responder training.

Between the lines: - The renewal signals that autism accessibility work is becoming an ongoing operational standard rather than a one-time certification exercise. - AFO’s partnership with Family & Children’s Services suggests the organization is influencing broader local systems, not just providing direct services. - IBCCES is using certifications, apps and online tools to build a wider network of autism- and sensory-friendly locations. - Myron Pincomb, CEO and board chairman of IBCCES, said AFO has expanded education, advocacy, training and resources since first earning the designation in 2022.

What's next: - AFO is expected to continue using the certification to support its programs and community partnerships across Oklahoma. - IBCCES will keep supporting the organization through renewal requirements, onsite reviews and continuous learning. - AFO remains featured on the free IBCCES Accessibility App, alongside certified locations and tailored recommendations for people with disabilities. - Families can also use AutismTravel.com and AccessibilityCertified.com to find certified locations and professionals.

The bottom line: - AFO’s latest renewal extends a years-long push to make Oklahoma communities more informed, accessible and supportive for autistic individuals and their families.