05/11/2026
Hillsboro Police Department-PRESS RELEASE
Chief Randy Leetham 217-532-6120
Officer Frank Kenny 217-532-6120
The Autism Hero Project
[email protected]
phone: 224-269-1074
The Hillsboro Police Department Partners and HCUD #3 are partnering with The Autism Hero Project to Launch the Blue Envelope Program
New Initiative Aimed at Enhancing Safety and Communication Between Law Enforcement and the Neurodivergent Community
The Hillsboro 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
“The Blue Envelope Program helps build communication, understanding, and trust during traffic stops and public interactions. We are proud to support a program that promotes safety and dignity for everyone involved.”— Randy Leetham
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.
Simulated Traffic Stop Training — Confidence Behind the Wheel (COMING SOON)
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:
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 — 24 HR 447 SOUTH MAIN REAR ALLEY(GUNNING)
Hillsboro Public Library — Monday-Thursday 9:30 a.m-7 p.m Friday & Saturday 9:30 a.m-5 p.m.
Village TBA
Unit Office 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Additional partner locations — TASC
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. 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 Hillsboro Police Department
“At the Hillsboro Police Department, we believe every community member deserves to feel safe and understood. The Blue Envelope Program helps create calmer, more informed interactions for both officers and citizens.”
— Hillsboro Police Department
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
Together, we are building communities where everyone belongs.
