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Miss Utah County outlines 'Autism Awareness to Acceptance' initiative
Summary
Miss Utah County presented a three-part community service platform focused on empathy in schools, amplifying voices of people with autism, and creating sensory-friendly spaces and events. Commissioners praised her work and noted partnerships with county fair organizers and local fundraisers that support children’s programming.
Miss Utah County, identifying herself as Hope, told the commission Oct. 29 she is launching "Autism Awareness to Acceptance," a community service platform focused on encouraging empathy in schools, amplifying the voices of people with autism, and creating sensory-friendly events and spaces.
Hope said the initiative grew from international volunteer work and personal family experience. "Autism is a spectrum. No two people experience it the same way," she said, adding that the initiative will promote inclusion and practical changes such as buddy benches in schools and a sensory-friendly Santa event for the holidays.
Commissioners and staff commended the presentation. Chair thanked her for representing the county, and one commissioner, an autism parent, said: "Just like every other kid, they want to have friends and they want to play too." Commissioners also thanked Craig Connell and county fair staff for enabling youth outreach at the county fair and noted fundraising proceeds would support preschool field trips and related programming.
Hope provided an Instagram handle for follow-up content and said she is available to support county events and service efforts.
The presentation was ceremonial; no formal county action was taken on the initiative during the meeting.
