The Arizona Cardinals and Pal Experiences (Pal), a nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive adventures, are excited to announce the launch of the Arizona Cardinals Pal, a set of free digital tools that make attending a football game more accessible for fans with developmental disabilities.
For families with children with developmental disabilities, such as autism, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety, going out can be a challenge. According to the National Autistic Society, more than 70 percent of families with autism experience social isolation. This creates barriers for individuals, families, businesses, and communities.
The Arizona Cardinals and Pal Experiences have partnered to create a solution. Custom digital tools — such as an Arizona Cardinals Pal Video and Arizona Cardinals Pal Guide — use evidence-based best practices to address the challenges that keep many families at home. This allows greater access and inclusion for the 1 in 6 children with developmental disabilities (CDC). These free tools make the Arizona Cardinals a Pal Place, and all the resources can be found on both organizations' websites.
Just as a ramp helps fans who move differently, Pal Tools help fans who think differently, creating access and inclusion for families with developmental disabilities. These tools join several exciting efforts focused on fans with disabilities, such as 'Cardinals Climb', a new Sensory Room sponsored by Roman Empire Agency, and Sensory Bags.
"At the Arizona Cardinals Foundation, our charitable focus is on supporting the Special Needs community, and it's just as important that we reflect that same commitment in the game day experience. By partnering with Pal Experiences and Roman Empire Agency we're taking steps to be leaders in creating inclusive and welcoming moments for every fan who comes to a Cardinals game," said Bob Hamer, executive director of the Arizona Cardinals Foundation
These efforts elevate accessibility at the stadium, ensuring fans with invisible disabilities feel supported and fully included on game day.
"Arizona Cardinals Foundation is shining a spotlight on supporting people with disabilities. We're honored to contribute through our Pal Tools and are proud to be part of a community that values and includes every fan. There's nothing like the excitement of a football game—and now the Cardinals are making sure everyone has the chance to experience it," said Melanie Isaacs, founder and Chief Inclusion Officer, Pal Experiences.
"Our partnership with the Arizona Cardinals represents more than accessibility; it's about belonging and acceptance. We're creating sensory-friendly spaces that give every fan the chance to feel seen, supported, and included. Together, we're redefining what it means for fans of all abilities to experience game day with confidence, comfort, and joy," said Gabriela Salcido, founder and CEO of Roman Empire Agency.
