THE ANSWER INC (Autism Awareness & Support Agency)

08/29/2026

08/26/2026

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford pushed for a protocol that will give drivers with autism and other intellectual disabilities the ability to clearly define their disability on their license – leading to safer traffic stops and interactions with law enforcement.

“A routine traffic stop is stressful for anyone – but for a driver with autism or another condition that affects how they process social cues and respond to commands, it can quickly escalate into a crisis,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). "Both the driver and officer deserve tools to prevent that escalation.”

Under Senate Bill 2524, if an individual presents documentation from a doctor stating they have an intellectual disability while applying for – or renewing – a driver’s license, they will be able to have a designation put on their ID card.

While people with autism may be able to manage their communication differences or behavioral challenges with supports at school, work or in their daily lives, they may experience unique challenges when interacting with police. Without a designation that someone may have an intellectual disability, law enforcement may interpret their behavior as being noncompliant with questioning or instructions. This has caused interactions between law enforcement and individuals with autism to escalate quickly, resulting in unnecessary use of force, trauma or death.

“When someone avoids eye contact or doesn't respond during a traffic stop, an officer may interpret that as defiance or impairment,” said Lightford. “But many people with autism, anxiety disorders or other conditions simply don't communicate the way officers are trained to expect. A simple designation on their license can prevent a routine stop from turning into a dangerous misunderstanding – protecting both the driver and the officer.”

Senate Bill 2524 was signed into law Friday.

08/20/2026

08/18/2026

Our CEO Debra Vines is on WBEZ now! Tune in!

08/17/2026

Have you decided what you’re wearing to AN EVENING IN BLACK FOR AUTISM?! 👀

Take a look at some of our past events for some ALL BLACK OUTFIT INSPO! 🖤

Saturday, September 26
6pm to 10pm
The Red Door

GET YOUR TICKETS (AND ALL BLACK OUTFIT) NOW!

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/answer-inc/an-evening-in-black-for-autism

08/17/2026

This week at Spectrum University.

While our students think they’re simply having fun, they’re also practicing:

✋ Fine motor skills — controlling small, precise hand movements
👀 Hand-eye coordination — coordinating what they see with how they move
🧠 Focus & concentration — slowing down and paying attention
⏳ Patience — taking their time to complete a task
🤝 Social skills — taking turns, encouraging others, and playing together

Sometimes the best learning happens when it just feels like PLAY! ❤️

For more information on our programs for ages 6 to 40 call 708.296.5651.
Also visit our website
www.theanswerinc.org

08/15/2026

Thank you to one of our loyal supporters Michelle Fry for raising over $600.00 via Parklane Jewerly for our Spectrum University Program.
We truly appreciate you.

08/13/2026

Have you gotten your tickets and ALL BLACK outfit yet? 🖤🖤🖤🖤

Tickets are available NOW!❤️❤️❤️❤️
Saturday, September 26, 2026

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/answer-inc/an-evening-in-black-for-autism