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Grant supports statewide first responder training related to autism
April is Autism Awareness Month
April 7, 2021
A program that trains first responders across Michigan in managing incidents involving individuals with autism received a major boost from a recent Enbridge Fueling Futures corporate citizenship grant.
Enbridge awarded a $30,000 grant in March to the Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM). The AAoM facilitates the training, which focuses on assisting first responders in understanding and appropriately addressing a situation before it escalates.
Individuals with autism are seven to 10 times more likely to be in contact with first responders than are their peers, according to research.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 54 children in the U.S. has autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In Michigan public schools alone, in the 2019-20 school year, approximately 22,455 children had autism school classification.
“Approximately 40% of individuals with autism are nonverbal and express themselves using other forms of communications,” said Colleen Allen PhD, president and CEO of AAoM. “Autism is an invisible disability; it can only be identified by behaviors rather than physical disabilities. Many misconceptions can occur when police, fire and EMS personnel interact with individuals with autism. Enbridge’s generous grant will help fund this much-needed training throughout Michigan. On behalf of those we serve, we greatly appreciate the support.”
The program educates participants on how to communicate and interact with individuals with ASD, supports and provides strategies to increase the likelihood of positive outcomes in situations involving persons with ASD, and offers de-escalation strategies in crisis situations.
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Allen reiterates that while autism can pose life-long challenges, it does not preclude those with autism from performing as highly functioning adults. In fact, AAoM has a goal to help place more than 100,000 Michiganders with autism into jobs with livable wages by 2030.
“We are proud to partner with AAoM,” said Candice Braddock, Enbridge senior community engagement advisor. “AAoM’s training aligns with our safe community program. Equally significant, AAoM shares our commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their full potential.”
AAoM is making a real difference for thousands of Michiganders. To date, more than 22,000 first responders in the State have received AAoM training since its 2016 inception.
For more on this story, read our @enbridge blog post.
Additional information on AAoM is available on the organization’s website.
Enbridge’s Fueling Futures program energizes communities through the volunteerism and generosity of our employees, and through strategic donations and sponsorships that strengthen safety, vibrancy and sustainability. Learn more here.
