Stuart Butler of Visit Myrtle Beach Honored for Contributions to Travel Accessibility

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (MBACC) and Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is pleased to announce Visit Myrtle Beach’s Chief Marketing Officer Stuart Butler has earned recognition from two organizations within the travel accessibility industry.

Champion Autism Network (CAN) presented Butler with their Champion Award for his effort to expand the Myrtle Beach area as a destination that welcomes Autism families.

“Stuart’s efforts at Visit Myrtle Beach and the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce are at the forefront of destinations across the world supporting families with Autism,” said CAN Founder and Executive Director Becky Large. 

CAN operates the Autism Travel Club program, which offers families tailored travel experiences to explore places while accommodating their unique needs. Likewise, CAN provides educational certifications for businesses and organizations, such as hotels and restaurants, to create Autism-friendly environments and services.

Moreover, Butler’s commitment to inclusivity in travel has been lauded by TravelAbility, naming him one of their “24 Accessibility Champions to Watch in 2024.” The recognition highlights professionals with “empathy and understanding of the diverse needs of travelers with disabilities.”

TravelAbility, known for its advocacy, education and technological innovations, annually hosts the TravelAbility Summit, uniting industry leaders and accessibility advocates to share pioneering accessible travel solutions.

Under Butler’s visionary leadership, Visit Myrtle Beach has launched several initiatives catering to travelers with special needs and their families, including The Beach is for everyBODY sensory-friendly pledge for hospitality businesses and the Autism-Friendly Vacation Guide.

Looking ahead, Visit Myrtle Beach is set to unveil further inclusive projects, including a children’s book and streaming TV show, both showcasing how persons with Autism can enjoy the Myrtle Beach area. 

“I’m deeply honored by the acknowledgements from CAN and TravelAbility,” Butler said. “Creating inclusive experiences is not just about removing barriers, but about fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance. This is a collective effort that takes more than just one individual, and I look forward to continuing these collaborative efforts throughout our community to further enrich the lives of those affected by neurodevelopmental disorders and other disabilities.”