Training Opportunities Across Nebraska

In 2022 and 2023, AAP conducted COMPASS trainings across the state, including law enforcement officers and first responder trainings in Kearney, Mullen, Mead, Yutan, Wahoo, and Ithaca. First Responder Training includes general information on Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory differences, and how autism can present. With this additional knowledge, first responders are better equipped to interact with the autism community. Some components of the trainings involve the BE Safe curriculum which involves the autism community as well, where law enforcement are paired with an individual with autism to learn from each other while gaining important safety skills.

 Training Testimonials:

"You know, for the police, for the community, for the individuals with disabilities: I think that when you know better, you do better and I believe that this is going to keep breaking barriers and it's going to keep the momentum going," said Kristina Daley, a mother who has a 20-year-old son with autism.

 “I start by saying my name is Kareem, I'm here to help you, what can I do to help you today?" McDougall said. "Often times if they feel intimidated by the uniform, I sit down with them on the ground and ask, 'what can I help with?' I think a key thing for them to know we are here to help them and that we won’t get them in trouble, because that’s often their fear."

 Additionally, AAP provides Autism in the Workplace trainings for employers looking to make their workplace from inclusive. AAP’s workforce development program, Prosper Workforce Services, serves participants with autism in connecting them with meaningful careers, while also working closely with employers to support them in considering and/or actively pursuing neurodiverse applicants.

 “We know that about 80-90% of individuals with autism in adults are either underemployed or unemployed, and for no good reason. They are highly capable, above average intelligent individuals considered subject matter experts who give them a good set of rules or procedures and they are going to learn them inside and out and perform them perfectly," said Marcia Prideaux, Prosper Workforce Services Manager.