Be Safe equips teens and adults with developmental disabilities with practical skills for safe interactions with law enforcement. Through video modeling, discussion, and role-play, participants learn what to do during everyday police encounters and in emergencies. Local officers will be here to build understanding and trust, helping attendees and caregivers feel more confident and prepared in community settings.

Teaching safe behaviors directly and explicitly to individuals with disabilities is essential for promoting safety for themselves and others. One in 44 children are now diagnosed with Autism. Children with Autism are growing up and participating in community life more than ever before, with an estimated 50,000 kids with Autism turning 18 each year.

Even when the police are trained or know that someone has a disability, things can still go wrong if the person with a disability is unprepared for a police encounter. Their first instinctive reaction might be a “fight or flight” response, especially if the person is unfamiliar with the police or their procedures. This event will help teens and adults with Autism, and related conditions, become prepared for all different kinds of police encounters, ranging from asking for help, to being detained as a suspect. Officers will have the chance to interact with disabled individuals in the communities they serve.

This event is an opportunity to see local officers at their best and witness relationships being built that bridge the gap between police and the Autism community. The BE SAFE event is positive, uplifting, and has the potential to save lives. It is a worthwhile opportunity to shine the light on people coming together to promote the safety of some of our most vulnerable citizens.

This event is for Neurodiverse teens and adults age 14+. Minors MUST be accompanied by an adult. Only one parent/caregiver is permitted per attendee due to spacing limitations. Registration required below as seating is limited.