# When the Lights Flash: What Police Departments and Policymakers Owe Our Autism Community *A Caregivers Academy Perspective* Every caregiver of an autistic loved one has rehearsed the scenario in their mind: the traffic stop, the wellness check, the 911 call from a neighbor who misread a meltdown. We know that a moment of miscommunication between an officer and an autistic person can escalate in seconds — not because anyone intended harm, but because no one was prepared. Pre

# Respite Care: A Rewarding Exchange That Supports Families This Summer When Sarah’s alarm goes off at 6 AM, she faces a familiar question: *How will I make this work?* Sarah is a mother of Marcus, age 8, who has autism. School is ending this week. Summer childcare costs are astronomical. She’s been offered more hours at work—good hours, meaningful work—but she can’t afford quality care for Marcus. For the past three summers, Sarah has stepped back from opportunities. She’s w