Safety

With the continued support of Today’s Champions, ASI is able to expand its impact by providing sensory-friendly backpacks to individuals on the spectrum, as well as offering specialized training for first responders across the state. These backpacks are thoughtfully designed to include a variety of helpful tools and objects—such as fidget items, noise-canceling headphones, and visual aids—that promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and support emotional regulation during potentially overwhelming situations. By equipping individuals with these resources and ensuring that first responders are better trained to understand and assist those with sensory sensitivities, ASI is helping to create safer, more inclusive communities for people with Autism and their families.

Additionally, Today’s Champions and ASI purchased picture communication boards to be placed in the vehicles of all first responders and law enforcement in Indiana. To date, over 10,000 have been given out. These boards give police, fire fighters, and EMS providers a way to communicate with a person who may be nonverbal, have limited English skills, have autism or other disabilities or mental health issues. All first responders also received a training video on how to utilize the communication board. If you’d like to order a board, please click here!