Blue Envelope Program

The Blue Envelope Program is designed to enhance communication and foster safer, more positive interactions between police officers and individuals on the autism spectrum by helping provide awareness of the citizen’s support needs during a law enforcement encounter.  

The program provides an identifiable blue envelope for individuals on the autism spectrum to present upon contact with a Naperville police officer. The envelope is a way for the participant to quickly and easily provide identification as well as a clear visual cue to officers about their specific communication methods and support needs to help reduce misunderstandings and anxiety during an encounter.

The blue envelope can be used to house copies of the individual’s identification, contact information or pertinent vehicle operating documents such as the vehicle registration and proof of insurance. It also includes space for communication instructions, such as preferred methods of interaction (verbal, non-verbal), use of specific language, or other support needs. Participants can also choose to include contact information for a designated support person.

The program equips officers with tools and guidance for respectful, effective communication and offers simple reminders for the participant on how to interact with a Naperville police officer. While the blue envelopes are specifically designed to assist motorists on the autism spectrum during traffic stops, a citizen can present the envelope during any encounter with a Naperville police officer to enhance communication and understanding.

an image of the blue envelope provided to drivers

an image of the second side of the blue envelope provided to drivers

The Blue Envelope Program is voluntary, free, and does not require participants to register. Individuals do not need to identify or show proof of their condition or diagnosis to participate. The goal of the Blue Envelope Program is to promote assistance and encourage communication with law enforcement officers through proactive self-identification.

Participation is simple:

  • Pick up an envelope at the police department or one of our partnering locations (listed below)
  • Fill out any fields on the envelope that apply to you
  • Place copies of your driver’s license, vehicle registration and vehicle insurance inside the envelope
  • Keep your blue envelope handy to present during any encounter with a Naperville police officer

The Blue Envelope Program is available to anyone on the autism spectrum who lives, works, or spends a considerable amount of time in Naperville, as it is intended to assist anyone who may have to identify themselves to or interact with a Naperville police officer during an emergency, traffic stop, or other encounter.

Please note that the use of the blue envelope does not make the participant immune to law enforcement action or override safety considerations. Additionally, this program is specific to Naperville, and officers from other jurisdictions may not be aware of the significance or purpose of the Blue Envelope Program.

Pick Up Locations

Stop by any of the following locations during regular operating hours to pick up your free blue envelope:

  • Naperville Police Department, 1350 Aurora Ave., Naperville, IL 60540
  • Fry Family YMCA, 2120 95th St, Naperville, IL 60564
  • Turning Pointe Autism Foundation, 1500 W Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
  • Naperville Public Library
    • 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564
    • Naper Blvd. Library, 2035 S Naper Blvd, Naperville, IL 60565
    • Nichols Library, 200 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
  • Lisle Township, 4711 Indiana Ave., Lisle, Illinois 60532
  • Naperville Township, 139 Water Street, Naperville, IL 60540
  • Wheatland Township, 4232 Tower Court, Naperville, IL 60564

Contact

Questions about the Blue Envelope Program can be directed to the Naperville Police Department’s Social Services Unit. Please email SocialServices@naperville.il.us or call (630) 420-6666 and ask to speak to a clinician.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I register for the Blue Envelope Program?

    There is no registration process to participate in the Blue Envelope Program. The Blue Envelope Program is a voluntary program for anyone who chooses to pick up an envelope and begin using it.

  2. Is there a cost to participate in the Blue Envelope Program?

    The program is voluntary, free and no registration is required to participate.

  3. Who can I ask more questions about the Blue Envelope Program?

    The Naperville Police Department’s social services clinicians will be happy to answer any questions you have. Please email SocialServices@naperville.il.us or call (630) 420-6666 and ask to speak to a clinician.

  4. Is the Blue Envelope Program only for Naperville residents?

    The Blue Envelope Program is available to anyone on the autism spectrum who lives, works, or spends a considerable amount of time in Naperville. It may be used by anyone who may have to identify themselves to a Naperville police officer during an emergency, traffic stop, or other encounter.

  5. Will other police departments recognize the Blue Envelope Program?

    Not necessarily. While this program has been successfully implemented by law enforcement agencies across the country, it is not yet universally known. Therefore, neighboring police departments in the Chicagoland area may not be aware of the significance of the Blue Envelope Program.