Harper Police launch Blue Envelope Program in partnership with the Autism Hero Project

The Harper College Police Department is proud to join the Blue Envelope Program, a nationwide movement helping individuals with autism and other communication differences feel safer and more confident during interactions with law enforcement.

Created by the Autism Hero Project, the voluntary, free program provides blue envelopes for neurodivergent drivers to keep a driver’s license, vehicle registration and insurance card together. It also includes an optional information sheet that may help a law enforcement officer better understand a person’s communication preferences or needs.

“The Harper College Police Department is launching the Blue Envelope Program, an initiative designed to promote safer, more effective interactions between law enforcement officers and members of our college community who are on the autism spectrum,” said Harper Police Chief John Lawson. “This program reflects our commitment to compassionate, professional policing by providing officers with information that can help reduce stress and improve communication during traffic stops and other law enforcement encounters. We believe the Blue Envelope Program will strengthen trust, enhance safety for everyone involved and help ensure that every member of our college community is treated with dignity, respect and understanding.”

Anyone can pick up blue envelopes at multiple Harper locations:

• Harper College Police Department – Building B, Palatine Campus, 1200 W. Algonquin Road
• Access and Disability Services – Building I, Room I103, Palatine Campus
• Harper College Police Office – Learning and Career Center, 1375 S. Wolf Road, Prospect Heights
• Harper College Police Office – Harper Professional Center, 650 E. Higgins, Schaumburg

If a driver with a blue envelope is stopped by law enforcement, they can hand the envelope to the officer. This lets the officer know the person may benefit from extra time, patience or clear communication. Individuals can also choose to provide information on emergency contacts, medical needs or if there is a support person they would like contacted to assist in the interaction. The envelope also includes instructions to the driver about what they can expect to happen if they are pulled over and what they should do.

For more information, contact the Harper College Police Department, 847.925.6330, or visit the Autism Hero Project.