Bridget Bryant, Groveland Police Department
The Groveland Police Department is proud to join a nationwide movement helping individuals with autism and other communication differences feel safer and more confident during interactions with law enforcement.
“The Blue Envelope Program is more than just a tool; it’s a bridge of understanding. It empowers individuals and equips our first responders with the knowledge they need to approach every situation with patience and empathy, thereby ensuring a safer community for everyone.”— Tamika Lecheé Morales, Founder & President, The Autism Hero Project
“Our goal is for every person we interact with to feel safe and understood. The Blue Envelope Program is another tool that helps us make that happen.” — Deputy Chief Loney, Groveland Police Department
How the Program Works
There is no registration required, and no personal information is needed.
Participation is as easy as:
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Visit a participating location
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Pick up your Blue Envelope and materials
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Keep them in your vehicle or personal belongings
Just like that, residents are now part of the program and a part of strengthening community safety.
Simulated Traffic Stop Training — Confidence Behind the Wheel
In conjunction with the Blue Envelope initiative, the police department is offering individuals an opportunity to sign up for a Simulated Traffic Stop Training. This safe, supportive program is specifically designed to walk autistic drivers through exactly what to expect during a real traffic stop.
Recognizing that traffic stops can be stressful, the department believes that when clarity steps in, anxiety steps back, and confidence takes the wheel. This training helps put drivers in control before they ever put their car in park.
Inside the Blue Envelope
This envelope contains communication tools first responders rely on, including:
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Instructions for drivers if pulled over
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Information officers can quickly reference
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Critical supports for encounter on foot or in public spaces
Pick-Up Locations
Residents can pick up Blue Envelope materials at:
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Groveland Public Safety Building — 6825 SR 50 Groveland, FL 34736
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Elese Tomlin Empowerment Center — 824 East Broad Street, Groveland, FL, United States, 34736
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Hope International Church — 13806 State Rd 33 Groveland, FL 34736
More About the Blue Envelope Program
The Blue Envelope Program began in Connecticut in 2020 as a simple, effective solution to support drivers who face communication challenges during traffic stops. The program utilizes a bright blue envelope to hold essential vehicle documents, along with clear, concise instructions for both the driver and the officer.
The program quickly proved that small changes can have a life-changing impact, which propelled its rapid nationwide adoption. Today, resources have expanded, providing materials people can carry even when not driving, ensuring safer interactions during any first-responder encounter. By promoting empathy and clear communication, the program is designed to significantly reduce anxiety and misunderstandings for identified citizens.
In an effort to ensure consistent safety and communication access statewide, The Autism Hero Project is customizing FREE Blue Envelope Program templates for first responders across Illinois and Florida to advance state legislation mandating the Blue Envelope Program statewide. This opportunity has been made possible in Florida thanks to the Florida Autism License Plate Grant.
Learn more at Website: www.autismheroproject.org – Together, we are building communities where everyone belongs.
