Blue Envelope Program: Dr. C.J. Cook from Inland Regional Center, Audrey Maqueira from the Autism Society Inland Empire, and Corporal Ermes Maqueira from the Ontario Police Department

In this episode of Voices Beyond the Spectrum, Resource Hub Edition, we bring together powerful voices from systems, community advocacy, and law enforcement to discuss an initiative that is helping bridge a critical gap between individuals with autism and first responders. Joined by Dr. C.J. Cook from Inland Regional Center, Audrey Maqueira from the Autism Society Inland Empire, and Corporal Ermes Maqueira from the Ontario Police Department, this conversation explores the purpose, impact, and real life application of the Blue Envelope initiative. The Blue Envelope is not a mental health program. It is a safety and communication tool designed to support individuals with autism and other developmental differences during interactions with law enforcement. It helps provide immediate awareness, reduce misunderstandings, and create safer, more informed exchanges for everyone involved. Through both professional expertise and lived experience, our guests share how this initiative came to life, why it is so needed, and how collaboration across communities is making a difference. This episode includes a powerful and important conversation around real world challenges, the importance of training, and the role we all play in creating safer and more inclusive communities. To learn more, access resources, and connect with the organizations featured in this episode, visit Empathy for Autism California or explore the links provided. OPD Blue Envelope Page Blue Envelope Program | City of Ontario, California   Blue Envelope Trainings: IRC Blue Envelope Training – Ontario | Inland Regional Center and IRC Blue Envelope Training – Riverside | Inland Regional Center. No RSVP required. Inland Regional Center Autism Society Inland Empire: 2026 Autism Acceptance Walk Autism Society Inland Empire City of Ontario Southern California Police