05/12/2026
PRESS RELEASE — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
I am very excited to roll out this program this Month!! It means a lot to me, and I cant think of a better way to help support ASD Awareness Month!
April 13, 2026
Assistant Police Chief Amanda Holder
The Steeleville, IL Police Department Partners with The Autism Hero Project to Bring the Blue Envelope Program to the Community
The Steeleville, IL 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
“This program was brought to my attention due to its demonstrated need and my commitment to increasing awareness and understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder within our community. Many of us know and care for individuals who face daily challenges associated with ASD. This initiative serves as an important step in strengthening communication and collaboration between our residents and the Police Department, ensuring that all voices are acknowledged and heard. We remain dedicated to fostering a safer, more inclusive community for all residents. ”—Amanda Holder, Assistant Police Chief
How the Program Works
There is no registration required, and no personal information is needed.
Participation is as easy as:
● Visit a participating location
● Pick up your Blue Envelope and materials
● 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.
Inside the Blue Envelope
This envelope contains communication tools first responders rely on, including:
● Instructions for drivers if pulled over
● Information officers can quickly reference
● Critical supports for encounters on foot or in public spaces
● Caption: “Inside the Blue Envelope — communication supports for drivers and first responders.”
Pick-Up Locations
Residents can pick up Blue Envelope materials at:
● Police Department — 107 W Broadway St
● Steeleville Library — 625 S Sparta St. 10:00a-6:00p
● Village Hall — 107 W Broadway St. 8:30a-4:30p
● Steeleville High School- Main Office for Students Only
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 now Florida to advance state legislation mandating the Blue Envelope Program statewide. Currently, House Bill 4472 is being voted on and is anticipated to soon be moved on to the Senate for a vote. You can follow the current legislation here: https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?GAID=18&DocNum=4472&DocTypeID=HB&LegId=0&SessionID=114
About The Autism Hero Project
The Autism Hero Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preparing kids with autism for the world and preparing the world for them. They provide:
● Financial assistance for medical insurance grants that access life-changing therapy
● Education scholarships helping autistic individuals gain employable skillsets
● Autism training for first responders
● Inclusive community events
● Advocacy that drives legislative action
Website: www.autismheroproject.org
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Together, we are building communities where everyone belongs.
The Autism Hero Project
