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Commission hears presentation on Blue Envelope program to help first responders identify people with autism
Summary
Members heard about the Blue Envelope program — wallet cards and a window sticker that signal communication or sensory differences — and discussed coordinating with local first responders and Summit DD to distribute materials.
Commission members heard a description of the Blue Envelope program, a packet of information, a small wallet card and a blue sticker designed to alert first responders that a driver or passenger may have autism or other communication differences.
A representative of the Greater Akron Autism Society had asked commission members to help distribute or promote the materials; Summit DD was identified as a local distribution point and the superintendent’s office as a source for packets. Members said the commission would contact local first-responder agencies and ask library and city staff about posting materials and making packets available.
The program is voluntary: the sticker is intended to be placed on the rear car window and the wallet card carried by the person with autism or a caregiver to speed communication with an officer or other responder. Commission members discussed coordinating training and notification with the local police department and other safety forces rather than issuing any directive; no formal MOU or funding decision was made at the meeting.
Members said they will follow up to identify the correct contact in the police department and coordinate with staff (Kelly and other local partners mentioned) to make materials available at city locations including the library.
