Where Everyone Belongs: Inside Morgan’s Vision of Inclusion

This week, we’re joined by Sharon Newhardt, Director of Inclusion and Culture at Morgan’s, the groundbreaking organization behind an ultra-inclusive amusement park, water park, sports center, camps, and clinical facility in San Antonio, Texas. Morgan’s is dedicated to creating spaces that cater to individuals with disabilities and neurodivergent communities. Sharon takes us through Morgan’s inspiring journey, from the park’s inception to heartwarming stories like guests experiencing the joy of swinging for the first time. We also dive into the thoughtful design and considerations that go into building a truly inclusive environment. Morgan’s is at the forefront of innovation in accessibility, and the profound impact they’ve had on their guests is nothing short of extraordinary.

Timestamps:

00:00 Quick updates

01:00 Introducing Sharon Newhardt, Director of Inclusion and Culture at Morgan’s

04:45 Morgan’s story and the creation of the world’s first ultra inclusive amusement park

09:00 Morgan’s Wonderland expansion from amusement parks to water parks, camps, sports center, and clinical facilities

17:15 Significance of Morgan’s logo, a butterfly

18:45 Key considerations and training when designing the park

24:10 Examples of terms to use

27:50 Challenges Morgan’s faces

32:35 Impactful stories, swinging for the first time

37:20 Proud of the inclusion training

39:10 Advice for businesses to be more inclusive

41:10 How we can support Morgan’s

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.