“I never really saw myself as…like, an advocate, in any way, really? Because people in Vermont, I think, many people, have been doing some good thinking around diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging — all these things that have unfortunately become very buzzwordy.
And it’s just that diversity, neurodivergence, those topics have been missing from the community conversations on diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
2. New Blue Envelope Program supports drivers on the autism spectrum
To create a safer and more inclusive environment for drivers, the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles has launched a new initiative known as the “Blue Envelope Program.” The Vermont DMV worked with the UVM Autism Collaborative to develop this program. According to the DMV, it will equip law enforcement officers with a tool to interact more effectively and positively with individuals on the autism spectrum.During a traffic stop, the Blue Envelope alerts officers that the driver is autistic. The information on the envelope reminds the officer about sensory friendly practices. The envelope contains essential documents the driver needs to handout to the officer like their vehicle registration. It can also contain optional information like contact details for their supporters.
The UVM Autism Collaborative’s Michael Shor is a self- and family advocate who participated in the program.
“Being independent and being involved in the community can be challenging. The more support we have, the more secure we feel in potentially stressful situations. Autistic individuals may respond differently in stressful situations, and this program aims to address that variability,” Shor said.
3. Introducing: the Special Needs Information Program (SNIP) in Vermont
Parents of children with disabilities and adults with disabilities are invited to join the Special Needs Information Program (SNIP), a program to help emergency responders identify and respond to vulnerable residents with special needs.The program is intended to aid police dispatchers and officers in their response to calls for assistance that may involve individuals with disabilities. This may include locating a missing person, medical emergency, crisis situation, behavioral episode, or other interactions.
The information program is an expansion of an existing database which identifies community members who have Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.The voluntary registration process includes completing the SNIP form. This information will then be kept on file and remain confidential within the police department and at SNSC, and will be accessed by first responders in the event of an emergency.
Thank you to everyone who presented at and attended our Mini-Autism Research Symposium!This symposium was a celebration of our work funded by two PCORI engagement awards.
