Roane County Executive Wade Creswell has officially proclaimed April 2025 as Autism Awareness Month in Roane County. The proclamation highlights the growing need to foster understanding, inclusion, and safety for individuals with autism – and announces the county’s support of the Blue Envelope Program, a law enforcement initiative designed to help improve interactions with drivers on the autism spectrum.
Addressing a Growing Need
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals of all ages, races, and backgrounds. With the prevalence of autism diagnoses steadily increasing across the United States, including here in Tennessee, communities are recognizing the importance of early intervention, awareness, and inclusive practices that support individuals and families impacted by autism.
“Our community is strengthened when every individual feels seen, understood, and safe,” said County Executive Wade Creswell. “This month and beyond, we are committed to making Roane County a place where those on the autism spectrum are supported in meaningful and practical ways.”
The Blue Envelope Program: A Tool for Safety and Understanding
With that commitment in mind, Executive Creswell is working alongside the Roane County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO), local police departments, and the KTG Foundation to roll out the Blue Envelope Program – a proactive initiative designed to assist individuals with autism during interactions with law enforcement.
How it works:
- Individuals on the autism spectrum receive a blue envelope to store important documents like their driver’s license, registration, and insurance card.
- A blue circle sticker placed in the car window alerts law enforcement that a driver may have autism.
- The envelope includes helpful reminders for both the driver and the officer – encouraging clear, calm communication and sensitivity to sensory or social differences.
KTG Foundation, the nonprofit spearheading the initiative in Tennessee, is partnering with law enforcement to offer free training sessions, approximately 30 minutes in length, covering autism awareness, sensory sensitivities, and the intended use of the envelope. There is no cost to agencies or individuals for materials or training.
Widespread Rollout Across Roane County
The Blue Envelope Program has already launched in Oliver Springs and Harriman, with materials being delivered in the coming days to Kingston Police Department, Rockwood Police Department, Spring City Police Department, and the Roane County Sheriff’s Office. Additional agencies across the county and state are exploring implementation.
“Our deputies are proud to be part of this important initiative,” said RCSO Chief Deputy Tim Hawn. “By learning more about autism and adapting our approach, we can reduce misunderstandings, lower anxiety, and create safer outcomes for everyone involved,” said RCSO Chief Deputy Tim Phillips.
A Collaborative Effort
The success of the Blue Envelope Program depends on collaboration between law enforcement, individuals with autism, and the broader community. Through local events, schools, media, and social media outreach, the program is being promoted to ensure both awareness and preparedness on all sides.
Community members are encouraged to:
- Learn more about autism and its impact.
- Support and promote the Blue Envelope Program.
- Encourage individuals on the spectrum to use the blue envelope and window sticker.
- Share the program with friends, family, educators, and law enforcement.
Join Us in Support of Autism Awareness Month
In proclaiming April 2025 as Autism Awareness Month, Roane County calls on residents, businesses, and organizations to deepen their understanding of autism and take active steps to build a more inclusive community. Supporting programs like the Blue Envelope is one way we can all contribute to greater safety, respect, and opportunity for our neighbors on the autism spectrum.
For more information about the Blue Envelope Program or KTG Foundation, please call 865-316-6167 or email KTGFoundation@gmail.com. To request a blue envelope, please contact the Roane County Sheriff’s Office 865-717-4700.
This proclamation was signed by County Executive Wade Creswell on April 10, 2025, in Kingston, Tennessee at the Roane County Courthouse.