Neumann University is hosting a neurodiversity and autism resource fair, including training for local law enforcement officers, on Saturday, March 16, from 10 AM. to 3 PM in the Bruder Life Center.

The event is free and open to the public.

Attendees will learn about the support available from organizations that work with and for neurodiverse individuals and their families.

Community partners with resource tables at the event include Belmont Behavioral Hospital, the Boy Scouts Special Needs Camporee, Delaware County Intermediate Unit, and the Neurodiversity Success Center at Hill Top Prep.

Speakers will address a variety of topics, such as the latest findings by the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, driving as a neurodiverse individual, special education and IEP support, channeling neurodiversity, assistive technology, and a state and local police decal program to identify cars and homes with neurodiverse individuals.

The resource fair is a family-friendly event that features sensory crafts, a free movement class by My Gym, and state trooper vehicles to explore.

A special track during the event will provide training for law enforcement officers and first responders in recognizing and interacting with neurodiverse individuals.

Dr. Jenelle Abnett, an assistant professor of education at Neumann who organized the event, will present a program titled Neurodiversity and Safe Encounters. Corporal Reginald Easterling of the Pennsylvania State Police will address the Proper Use of Force Techniques.

In an April 2023 report by ABC News, autism advocate Areva Martin explained the complications of interactions between individuals on the spectrum and law enforcement. “Many individuals with autism don’t respond immediately to commands. Many don’t understand some complicated commands law enforcement agencies may give. So that may be seen as a form of noncompliance.”

The report noted that only eight states offer police training for interacting with autistic individuals.

The latest research in 2023 from the CDC shows that one in 36 children is now diagnosed with autism. This is an increase from one in 44 children in 2021. 

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer and Neumann University President Chris Domes will welcome participants during the opening ceremony.

The resource fair is sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Police, the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Neumann University’s Center for Leadership.

Register in advance at www.neumann.edu/autism.

For more information, contact Dr. Abnett at abnettj@neumann.edu