City of Imperial hosts resource fair and 5K race for Autism Awareness Month

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) - The City of Imperial hosted a resource fair and 5K race for Autism Awareness Month over the weekend.

Families across Imperial County came together Saturday to raise awareness and support those living with autism.

Kids took park in games, ride and activities while parents had the chance to learn about services from local providers.

"These are resource fairs that we're able to provide information to parents of children with autism and to adults with autism," said James Gonzalez with Autism Support of Imperial County.

This comes as the Autism Support of Imperial County received two grants to help them with a mobile diagnostic unit and bringing therapists and doctors on board.

The Imperial County Sheriff's Office (ISCO) was on hand promoting the Blue Envelope Program, which aims to improve communication between law enforcement and people with autism.

Drivers keep their license in a blue envelope, which signals that they may have special communication needs.

"Our department is our here today with our Blue Envelope Program. We're out here helping families, explaining what our Blue Envelope Program is all about," said Monica Robledo with ICSO.

Organizers say awareness is just the first step, but continued community support makes a lasting difference.