Recently, Ohio launched the Blue Envelope Program. This communication tool assists individuals with developmental disabilities during interactions with law enforcement or emergency personnel. The program is free, voluntary, simple to use and can be accessed through your County Developmental Disabilities Board. Find out how you can participate.

Program Background

The Blue Envelope Program was first designed by the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association in 2020. This helpful program has since been adopted by various agencies nationally and is now being shared through Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council, Southern Ohio Council of Governments and the Southern Ohio Advocacy Group. The Blue Envelope packets are available to Ohio through County Developmental Disability Boards. (Additional communication training for law enforcement and emergency personnel is aviable through the Autism Society of Greater Akron.)

How Does the Program Work?

Ohio’s Blue Envelope Program works as a communication tool to assist drivers (or passengers) with developmental disabilities during interactions with police, firefighters, EMS and other emergency situations. This program is especially helpful for individuals with Autism, anxiety or other conditions that might require accommodations or awareness during a law enforcement interaction.

Individuals can request a free Blue Envelope packet from Summit DD that contains:

• Blue Envelope – To keep important documents needed for traffic stops together in one place
• Car Decal – To signal to law enforcement or first responders that someone in vehicle has a disability and to look for the Blue Envelope with additional information
• Wallet Card – To carry with you to help provide information quickly to others in emergencies
• Program Brochure – To explain how to use items in the packet

How do I get a Free Packet?

To request a free Blue Envelope packet, please contact your SSA or email PR@SummitDD.org. Packets can be picked up at Summit DD’s offices during normal business hours. This program is free and voluntary.

Training for First Responders and Law Enforcement

If you are a first responder or law enforcement agency and would like training to help your team better communicate with individuals of different abilities, please contact Kelly Gothard (kgothard@socog.org) with ASGA to request their Safety on the Spectrum™ Training.