How one local business helped High Point become a Certified Autism Destination

Candace Hayes knows how hard it can be for parents to find a safe space for children with disabilities. That’s why, several years ago, she opened Q’s Corner, named after her son, Quintin, who has autism.

Q’s Corner offers several activity options that cater to children with different challenges. There’s a soft play room for those with visual impairments, as well as a sensory room that’s designed to stimulate the senses in a calming environment.

“Because a lot of times, when you have a kiddo with disabilities, the most fun that they’re able to obtain is when they’re doing [an] actual therapy session," Hayes says. "And that’s great, but parents want to also have that experience with their child having fun on a regular Wednesday night or Saturday morning with their brothers and sisters.”

Hayes says Q’s Corner quickly became a hot spot for families with children who have autism, attracting visitors from outside the area. But when those families asked about other autism-friendly places, there weren’t a lot of options.

So Hayes connected with the team at Visit High Point. Over the next year, they worked with local businesses to help them become Certified Autism Centers, which involves extensive audits and training for employees.

In 2023, the city became the first Certified Autism Destination on the East Coast, now with 20 different partners, including museums, a library, restaurants, hotels, and of course, Q’s Corner.

“It’s great for parents and individuals who are experiencing it, you know, in real time and real life," Hayes says. "It’s always great to see a city that’s being progressive, providing the resources and, you know, encouraging the community to be aware and to get on board because it really does make all the difference.”

A travel guide with details on the city’s different Certified Autism Centers can be found on the Visit High Point website.