Norfolk International Airport (ORF) has partnered with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower organization to bring its Sunflower Lanyard program to ORF.
The Hidden Disabilities organization developed this program to help people with hidden disabilities discreetly inform others – by wearing a Sunflower printed lanyard – that they have a disability that may not be readily apparent. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower indicates to anyone approaching – especially those in customer service roles – that a person wearing one of these items may need more assistance and that their patience is appreciated.
The program is simple:
- Travelers ask for a lanyard, pin or bracelet and determine for themselves when to wear them.
- Anyone who feels they have a hidden disability can request one.
- There are no prerequisites for asking for or wearing an item.
- When someone working at the airport sees someone wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower-branded lanyard, they know that this person may need extra assistance/patience.
Do I qualify to wear the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower?
There is no qualifying list of hidden disabilities. If you have a hidden disability and feel that you would benefit from wearing a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower product, please do.
Where can I pick up a Hidden Disabilities sunflower item at ORF?
You can pick up a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard at the Information Center in the main lobby Monday – Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Can a sunflower item be mailed to me?
Yes, we are happy to mail a sunflower lanyard, pin or bracelet to locations in Virginia and North Carolina. If you live outside of those areas, consider checking with your local airport or visit https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/ to purchase.
Local travelers can contact Kia Moten for assistance: kmoten@norfolkairport.com or 757-857-3351.
Once I have a lanyard or other Hidden Disabilities Sunflower item, what is my next step?
Wear the item anytime you want others to know that you have a hidden disability. At ORF, airport and airline employees, restaurant, and retail staff as well as Transportation Security Administration officers and other tenant agencies have been provided training about the program.
Does wearing a lanyard give me access to expedited security screening?
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower does not entitle the wearer to anything other than identifying that you have a hidden disability and that you may need some assistance, help, or a little more time. It is not a pass to be fast-tracked through security, nor for any other benefit.
Where can I expect others to recognize the lanyard?
For a current listing of all locations participating in the program, go to: hiddendisabilitiesstore/us.com
Who can I contact if I have questions?
Contact Kia Moten at: kmoten@norfolkairport.com or 757-857-3351.