Small envelope, big difference

NORWALK — The Huron County Board of Developmental Disabilities is partnering with the Blue Envelope Program to strengthen community safety and support the individuals we serve. Flashing lights in the rearview mirror can cause anyone a moment of anxiety. For individuals with developmental disabilities, that anxiety is often magnified by the challenges of communicating with law enforcement. Thanks to a simple blue envelope, drivers across Ohio now have a tool to make these interactions safer and less stressful. The Southern Ohio Council of Governments has launched the Blue Envelope Program statewide, providing communication tools to assist individuals with developmental disabilities during encounters with law enforcement and emergency personnel. "The Blue Envelope Program is a powerful example of how compassion and understanding can shape public safety," said Southern Ohio Council of Governments executive director Kelly Rosler. "By fostering better communication between law enforcement and individuals with disabilities, it builds a safer, more inclusive community for everyone." At the heart of the initiative is the Blue Envelope itself. It is designed to hold a copy of a driver's license or ID, vehicle registration, and insurance card, with space on the outside to note medical conditions or disabilities. During a traffic stop, drivers can hand the envelope to an officer, reducing stress and improving communication. The program also includes: • Blue Envelope car decal: A small window sticker that discreetly alerts officers or first responders that someone inside the vehicle may have a disability affecting speech or actions. • Blue Envelope wallet card: A smaller version of the envelope, carried in a pocket or purse for use outside of a vehicle. In emergencies, these tools provide first responders with immediate access to vital information. Packets are free of charge and available through participating county boards of developmental disabilities across Ohio. Locally, please contact the Huron County Board of DD at 419-668-8840 if you are interested in receiving a Blue Envelope. "The Blue Envelope program brings understanding to the people we support and closes the gap between individuals with disabilities and law enforcement," said Kari Smith, Huron County Board of DD superintendent. "If there are ways we can mitigate trauma or misunderstandings in these situations we aim to do this. Smith continued: "Awareness of disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, dementia, physical disabilities, or mental health conditions may require law enforcement's interaction to look different. We are excited to have a program in place that can be a bridge in our community to understanding and safety for both the individuals we support and law enforcement." For more information about Ohio's Blue Envelope Program, visit socog.org or contact Huron County Board of Developmental Disabilities.