Responding 2 Autism

06/18/2026

For the past two weeks, Responding 2 Autism has had the privilege of conducting specialized emergency preparedness trainings at five local summer camp locations.

These unique sessions focused on lockdown procedures, emergency response, and effective communication strategies for supporting children with autism and other sensory related needs during a crisis. Working alongside both campers and counselors, we discussed how emergency situations can look very different for individuals on the autism spectrum and why understanding those differences can make all the difference when seconds matter.

Throughout the school year, students regularly participate in emergency drills and become familiar with the procedures in their school environment. During the summer months, however, many of those same students are attending camps in new buildings, unfamiliar locations, and with different staff members. Preparing everyone for how to respond during an emergency is essential to maintaining a safe environment for all.

We are proud to help equip counselors, staff, and fellow campers with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively support individuals with autism and other sensory challenges during high-stress situations. By building understanding before an emergency occurs, we create safer, more inclusive environments for everyone.

“the more we know, the better we do.” 😎

06/12/2026

This week we trained over 200 ☀️summer campers and camp counselors.

As they prepare for a summer of fun it is important to understand everyone is unique and it matters how we treat each other. Summer camps across Florida are filled with students who have unique abilities and understanding safety protocols and effective communication is vital to everyone having a great and safe summer. “the more we know the better we do” Have a great summer everyone.
🕶️⛱️ 🏖️🥎⚽️🏐🏉🏓🎳🏸

06/10/2026

My favorite part of the SRD training today with Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

Standing before a room filled with law enforcement professionals, Dalton demonstrated one of his autism superpowers 💙 his incredible memory.

As Martin Jr. held up a book, Dalton recalled the details from memory, amazing the audience with a skill that many never knew was possible.

What makes moments like this so meaningful isn’t just the remarkable memory. It’s watching two brothers, both diagnosed with autism as toddlers, standing confidently in front of hundreds of deputies, teaching from their lived experience. One brother sharing his gift, the other standing proudly beside him in support.

For years, people focused on what they couldn’t do.

Today, they showed a room full of first responders what they can do.

These moments remind us why education matters. When first responders understand autism, they begin to see beyond the diagnosis and recognize the unique strengths, abilities, and potential within each individual.

We couldn’t be prouder of Dalton and Martin Jr. and the impact they continue to have on those who serve our communities.

06/10/2026

A fantastic day of learning with the Broward County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Deputies!

Our School Resource Deputies are true heroes. They are on the front lines every day, spending countless hours in our schools building relationships, ensuring safety, and supporting student, including many children with autism.

Because they interact with our children throughout the school day, providing them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to effectively communicate and engage with individuals on the autism spectrum is incredibly important.

We are honored to be part of the team helping to foster positive interactions, build understanding, and strengthen the connection between first responders and the autism community.

Thank you to the dedicated School Resource Deputies of the Broward County Sheriff’s Office for your commitment to protecting, serving, and supporting our students every day.

“the more we know, the better we do.”

06/08/2026

A special thank you to the Youth Group from First Presbyterian Church of Coral Springs, led by Colton Madden, for their incredible support at our inaugural Waves of Ability 🏄‍♂️ event.

Colton and his team played a significant role in making the day such a success. Their enthusiasm, compassion, and willingness to serve helped create an unforgettable experience for our participants and their families.

We are truly grateful for the time, energy, and heart they brought to this event. Thank you, Colton and team, for helping make the day so special and for showing what community is all about.

06/08/2026

At Responding 2 Autism, our mission extends beyond training, we take great pride in building meaningful partnerships within communities.

On June 6, 2026, we were honored to partner with the City of Pompano Beach Parks & Recreation Department for their inaugural 🏄🏻‍♀️🏄‍♂️🏄 Waves of Ability surfing event.

It was an incredible day at the beach 😎 where individuals with autism and other differing abilities were given the opportunity to experience the thrill of surfing while enjoying a day of fun in the sun. For many participants, it was their very first time stepping onto a surfboard.

Watching the excitement, confidence, and pure joy on their faces as they rode the waves was truly unforgettable. We were honored to play a small part in creating memories that will last a lifetime.

A heartfelt thank you to the amazing volunteers, instructors, families, and community partners who made this special day possible. Together, we continue to create opportunities where everyone can be included, supported, and celebrated.

“the more we know, the better we do.”

05/29/2026

Families in Brevard County
👉 Check out this event ⚾️coming to your community.

☀️Come join us to kick off summer! This free event will be from 9-12 on June 6th at The Field of Dreams in West Melbourne! We hope to see you out there!

05/29/2026

What an amazing day of learning at Broward College’s Institute of Public Safety. We had the honor of presenting our training to cadets representing multiple agencies from across Broward County.

Opportunities like this are especially meaningful because they allow us to connect with the next generation of first responders before they begin serving our communities. Together, we explored effective strategies for recognizing, understanding, communicating with, and supporting individuals with autism during emergency and non-emergency interactions.

Thank you to Broward College for the opportunity to be part of their cadets’ educational journey.

“The more we know, the better we do”

05/22/2026

From all of us with Responding 2 Autism “We remember, we honor and we are forever grateful” 🇺🇸🇺🇸

05/19/2026

We are excited to begin creating our new “Code Calm Bags” 👉 sensory support kits designed for First Responders to use in the field during emergencies involving children with autism or sensory sensitivities.

These bags are intended to provide comfort, calming, communication, and distraction tools during stressful or overwhelming situations.

Items may include:
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Communication cards
• Sensory/fidget items
• Bubbles
• Flashlights
• Comfort tools and more

👉 Now we’d love your input.

What items do YOU think would be helpful to include in a Code Calm Bag? Please
tell us in the comments below.👇