The Cook County Sheriff’s Office is proud to join a nationwide movement helping individuals with autism feel safer and more confident during interactions with law enforcement. Our office worked with the Autism Hero Project (www.autismheroproject.org), a non-profit dedicated to preparing kids with autism for the world and preparing the world for them, to launch this initiative.
The Blue Envelope Program began in Connecticut in 2020 as a simple, effective solution to support drivers on the autism spectrum who face communication challenges during traffic stops. The program utilizes a blue envelope to hold essential vehicle documents, along with clear, concise instructions for both the driver and the officer.
Inside the Blue Envelope
This envelope contains communication tools first responders rely on, including:
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- Instructions for drivers if pulled over
- Information officers can quickly reference
- Critical support for encounters on foot or in public spaces
Participation
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- The Blue Envelope Program is a free, voluntary program that requires NO registration and NO personal information.
- Complete information on the envelope that applies to you.
- Place copies of your driver’s license, registration, and insurance inside.
- Present the envelope during any encounter with law enforcement.
Blue Envelope Pickup Locations
- Cook County Courthouses
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- Criminal Courts (2650 S. California, Room 1A25, Chicago 60608)
- Daley Center Courts (50 W. Washington, Room CL-113, Chicago 60602)
- Domestic Violence Court (555 W. Harrison, Room 1005, Chicago 60606)
- Eviction Unit (50 W. Washington, Room 701, Chicago 60602)
- Juvenile Courts (1100 S. Hamilton, Room 2002A, Chicago 60612)
- Child Support (937 N. Wood Street, Chicago 60622)
- District 2 – Skokie Courts (5600 West Old Orchard Road, Room 140, Skokie 60076)
- District 3 – Rolling Meadows Courts (2121 Euclid, Room 122, Rolling Meadows 60008)
- District 4 – Maywood Courts (1500 Maybrook Drive, Room 114, Maywood, 60153)
- District 5 – Bridgeview Courts (10220 S. 76th Avenue, Room 122, Bridgeview 60455)
- District 6 – Markham Courts (16501 S. Kedzie Parkway, Room 118, Markham 60426)
- Grand & Central Courts (5555 W. Grand Avenue, Chicago 60639)
- Harrison & Kedzie Courts (3150 W. Flournoy, Chicago 60612)
- 111th Street Courts (727 E. 111th Street, Room 7, Chicago 60628)
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- Distribution at community engagement events
For more information, email [email protected].
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:
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- 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
Learn more at www.autismheroproject.org