November 13, 2024. Marlton, New Jersey — Cherry Hill Programs and Autism Speaks Inc. announce the continuation of their Santa Cares events, set to take place across the United States on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Santa Cares events allow people of all ages and abilities to enjoy Santa Magic in an environment welcoming to those with sensory differences.
With exclusive access to Santa outside regular venue hours, Santa Cares aims to create an accessible experience for people with autism. Sensory triggers, often experienced by those on the autism
spectrum, are minimized by reducing crowd sizes, decreasing wait times, and ensuring lighting and music are set at comfortable levels. Santa and other staff are expertly trained, with Autism Speaks leading a video seminar and a kick-off Q&A session to help all seasonal employees understand and cater to the needs of individuals with special needs and their families.
Cherry Hill Programs, a leader in experiential photography, has a long-standing tradition of providing inclusive photo sessions for families across North America through both its Santa Cares events and Bunny Cares, its spring season inclusive photo events. In partnership with Autism Speaks, the largest autism advocacy non-profit organization in the U.S. dedicated to creating an inclusive world for people with autism through research, advocacy, programs and services, these special events aim to foster unforgettable holiday memories for all families.
"As a community-focused company, we strive to make our photo experiences more accessible and enjoyable for everyone," expressed Chris Landtroop, Cherry Hill Programs Vice President of Marketing and Communications. "Our collaboration with Autism Speaks allows us to make the holiday season more inclusive and memorable for families with special needs."
Jose Dell’Aglio, Autism Speaks' Senior Director of Nationwide Community Engagement Operations, underscored, "By actively creating opportunities for people of different abilities, and especially those with autism, Cherry Hill Programs offers an incredible example for other organizations seeking to promote inclusion and improve accessibility. Inclusive environments foster a sense of belonging and acceptance within communities, serving as a foundation for personal growth, mutual respect, and societal progress. These are principles Autism Speaks holds dear.”
Demonstrating their commitment to supporting the autism community, Cherry Hill Programs has raised more than $1.7M in support of Autism Speaks since 2015. The tradition continues as reservations for the 2024 event are now open. Participants will have the opportunity to donate to Autism Speaks directly at checkout throughout the entire season.
In collaboration with Portable North Pole, Cherry Hill is adding even more sparkle to Santa Cares events by offering a free personalized message from Santa with every reservation and a complimentary post-visit video from the North Pole. In addition, a partnership with Shutterfly will provide each guest with 10 complimentary holiday cards after their Santa visit, and 50% off their order at Shutterfly.
To find a participating location and register for the Santa Cares events, visit whereissanta.com. While registration is free, photo packages can be purchased at the venue.
About Cherry Hill Programs
Cherry Hill Programs captures the Magic to celebrate moments for a lifetime. In partnership with famous landmarks, attractions, and signature retail venues across North America, CHP is the industry-leader in experiential holiday and souvenir photography. Through a combination of proprietary reservation software, innovative technology, accessible download portals, and complete photography operation implementation – from recruiting and training to collaborative marketing – our mission is simple: to bring magic to every experience. Learn more at cherryhillprograms.com.
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. In response to the pressing needs of the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the U.S. today, Autism Speaks provides resources and tools for autistic individuals of all ages and levels of support. Connecting millions of people with autism and their families to free services, supports, research, innovation and advances in care, the nonprofit serves as convener for the autism community with the goal of making a real difference for all people on the autism spectrum. To find resources, join an event or make a donation go to AutismSpeaks.org. Learn more and join the movement to #actfearlessly by following @AutismSpeaks on social media.
Contacts
Cherry Hill Programs
Chris Landtroop | Vice President, Marketing & Communications
Autism Speaks
Francesca Cascardo | Senior Manager Communications & Public Relations