City Of Pembroke Pines Earns Autism Friendly Partner Designation

The City began working with CARD in October 2025 to further enhance and build upon the inclusive programs and services already in place. Through this collaboration, Pembroke Pines strengthened existing efforts while expanding its partnership with CARD to develop new initiatives that ultimately led to this designation.

Existing efforts include inclusive recreation programming, adaptive sports in partnership with the YMCA of South Florida, a specialized academic program at the City’s Charter FSU elementary school, an ADA-inclusive playground at Memorial Park, a Special Population Summer Camp, workforce training for Police and Fire personnel, and sensory-friendly cultural programming such as “Sensory Saturdays.”

The City continues to expand its efforts with several new initiatives currently underway, reflecting a deeper, more comprehensive approach to accessibility and inclusion. These include the integration of Autism-friendly design elements into future playgrounds—beginning with Silver Lakes North Park—to ensure that play spaces are intentionally inclusive from the ground up. In addition, the City is installing 12 communication boards across its park system, sponsored by Baptist Health, to support non-verbal and minimally verbal individuals in expressing needs, engaging with others, and navigating public spaces more independently.

To further support residents and families, the City is launching a dedicated Autism Friendly webpage that will serve as a centralized hub for resources, programs, and tools. This will be complemented by the development of social stories—visual and narrative guides designed to help individuals prepare for and navigate City events, facilities, and services with greater confidence.

The City is also introducing designated “Quiet Zones” at major events, providing low-sensory spaces for individuals who may become overwhelmed, as well as expanding Autism awareness and sensory sensitivity training for staff across all departments to ensure consistent, informed, and supportive interactions throughout the organization.

“The City of Pembroke Pines is honored to be recognized as an Autism Friendly Partner, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue expanding how we serve individuals with Autism and related disabilities in our community,” said Vice Mayor Michael Hernandez. “This designation reflects our commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where all residents feel supported and valued. We look forward to building on this partnership and continuing to enhance accessibility, awareness, and engagement for everyone.”

The City’s efforts align with its broader vision to promote accessibility, inclusion, and a sense of belonging for all residents—ensuring that individuals of all ages and abilities can fully participate in community life.

For more information about the Autism Friendly designation, available resources, and programming, please visit: https://www.ppines.com/autismfriendly.

About CARD

CARD (Center for Autism & Related Disabilities) at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University provides support and assistance to help optimize the potential of individuals with autism and related disabilities. Services are delivered across the lifespan in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. CARD also partners with local organizations to promote inclusive environments through training, resources, and its Autism Friendly Initiative. The program serves individuals and families in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties. To learn more, visit: www.card.miami.edu.

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