Blue Envelope Program Connects Autistic Drivers, Ocean City Cops

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Being pulled over by a cop can be a nerve-wracking experience for anyone. It can be even more so for drivers on the autism spectrum, which is why the Ocean City Police Department is joining dozens of other departments across New Jersey by implementing the Blue Envelope Program.

The program gives drivers on the autism spectrum a blue envelope, which tells them what to do in the event of a motor vehicle stop. The envelope also contains information about the driver, so the officer will know how to best communicate with them.

It was implemented thanks to the work of Steffen Klenk, a 2011 Ocean City High School graduate and local news writer/photographer. Klenk had approached Community Policing Sgt. Chris Vivarelli with the idea, which is modeled after similar programs in other communities. It was developed in partnership with the Ocean City Free Public Library.

“I want to thank our police department and library for putting this program together, and most of all, I want to thank Steffen,” Mayor Jay Gillian said in announcing the program. “Anything we can do to become more aware of the special needs of our residents and guests will make Ocean City even more welcoming.”

“As a department, we look forward to spreading awareness about the Blue Envelope Program and ultimately hope to strengthen the relationship between our officers and the community members affected by Autism and their families,” police said.

Anyone can pick up a free blue envelope by stopping by the front desk of the Ocean City Police Department at 835 Central Ave.