The Blue Envelope Program is an initiative of Portage Township Trustee, Brendan Clancy, and the Portage Township Autism Action Action Coalition (PTAAC) to improve awareness of autism in the community, provide support for first responders, and assist families with members on the spectrum.
What Does the Blue Envelope Program Entail?
The program is a communications and safety tool for drivers diagnosed with autism and law enforcement with the following objectives:
- Enhanced Understanding: By providing officers with immediate, accessible information about autism, the Blue Envelope Program aims to promote empathy and patience, leading to more positive interactions.
- Reducing Anxiety: Traffic stops can be particularly stressful for individuals with autism. The Blue Envelope serves as a visual cue that helps officers adjust their communication style, thereby reducing anxiety for the driver.
- Streamlined Communication: The guidelines on the envelope offer practical tips for officers, making it easier for them to communicate effectively with individuals with autism, even in high-stress situations like traffic stops.
- Encouraging Preparedness: For individuals with autism and their families, the Blue Envelope is a tool that encourages preparedness. By keeping their important documents in the envelope and understanding how to present it during a traffic stop, drivers can feel more confident and secure.
During a traffic stop, a driver diagnosed on the autism spectrum will hand law enforcement a specially designed envelope that features communication guidelines on its exterior for both the driver and the officer. The information allows an officer to adapt their approach when interacting with a driver who has autism. Inside the envelope will be a driver’s license, registration, insurance card, and a contact card for a trusted individual who can confirm the driver is on the autism spectrum.
Drivers with autism may also affix a special window cling to the rear, driver's side window to alert law enforcement making the stop that the driver is on the autism spectrum before approaching the stopped vehicle.
Blue Envelope Program front view of envelope
Blue Envelope Program back view of envelope
Blue Envelope Program contact card included in the special envelope
Blue Envelope Program window cling
Where are Blue Envelope Materials Available?
Residents of Porter county can obtain Blue Envelope Program materials (e.g. window cling, contact card, and blue envelope) at:
- Portage Township Trustee's Office
3590 Willowcreek Road, Suite B, Portage, Indiana - Portage Police Station
6260 Central Ave., Portage, Indiana - Porter County Sheriff's Office
2755 Ind. 49, Valparaiso, Indiana - Portage BMV Branch
5916 US Highway 6, Portage, Indiana - Valparaiso BMV Branch
1361 Morthland Dr., Suites G-H, Valparaiso, Indiana