In my time as an Authorized Disney Travel Planner I have had the pleasure of helping many, many families to create some incredible vacation experiences and memories. Several of those families have traveled to the Disney theme parks with children, friends and other family members who were in need of special assistance in order to fully enjoy all of the magic a Disney vacation has to offer. In light of the recent announcement regarding the changes to the Guest Assistance Card (GAC) program that will be put into place on October 9, 2014, I wanted to share with all of you a letter I received from Meg Crofton, President Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Operations, U.S. and France. The letter explains Disney’s commitment to all of their guest’s experiences during their Disney vacations. I’m also sharing here a list of Frequently Asked Questions provided by Leanne Jakubowski, Director of Social Media, Walt Disney World Resort. These FAQs were prepared to help answer some of the questions folks might have about the new Disability Access Service Card which will be replacing GACs next week.
Change is challenging for all of us and there is always a learning curve when a new program is implemented. Both the Disney Cast Members and vacationing guests will need to get used to how the new system is going to work in general and how it is going to effect each individual family. The point remains that Disney is working to continue to create magical experiences for everyone who visits their destinations.
I will continue to share information here about the Disability Access Service Card as it becomes available to me.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How will the new Disney program work?
The Disability Access Service Card will offer Guests a return time for an attraction based on the current wait time. Guest Assistance Cards will continue to be in effect until Oct. 9. We look forward to sharing more information as we get closer to implementation.
Did Disney receive assistance in developing the Disability Access Service Card?
Yes, Disney is engaging disability groups, and Autism Speaks was instrumental in providing feedback as we developed this new process.
Why is Disney making these changes?
Given the increasing volume of requests Disney receives for special access to our attractions, we are changing our process beginning Oct. 9 so that it creates a more consistent experience for all our Guests while providing accommodations for Guests with disabilities.
Who will be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card?
Our goal is to accommodate Guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities).
Will Guests on wish trips also use Disability Access Service Cards?
No. Guests who are visiting through wish-granting organizations will have access through a separate program.
What should Guests do if they have concerns?
Guests should contact Guest Relations to discuss their assistance needs.
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