First Responder Training Support
Ashley McClain- Founder of LINKED and Autism Mom
As the founder of LINKED, Ashley works tirelessly to maintain this program and create a support system for families affected by Autism, individuals of differing abilities and the first responder community. With a background in community clinical psychology, Ashley has used her experiences as both a social worker and an Autism mom to provide a comprehensive awareness of the Autism community. Ashley is a POSTC Certified Instructor and approved through the Department of Public Health for autism support and training.
Jason Piccirillo - Corporal Beacon Falls Police Department
Jason has spent the last 11 years in public service with a strong focus on building relationships within the community he serves. Jason is POSTC Certified Instructor for various trainings within the State of Connecticut and was instrumental in developing our LINKED First Responder Support/Training. Jason volunteers for our program and the
Director of Training and Development,
Objective
The objective to LINKED – Autism Safety Project First Responder Support and Training is to provide first responders and emergency management services staff awareness, education and understanding of the Autism and special needs community- both individuals and families.
Information shared with municipalities allows for first responders to understand how the basic needs of individual with Autism Spectrum Disorder, developmental, intellectual and cognitive will and can differ from the neurotypical population.
Additional information shared regarding those individuals with visual, hearing and mobility impairments. Due to these differences, the training was established to assist in providing first responders the knowledge, skills and resources to feel and be equipped to support individuals they may encounter that are part of the neurodiverse population.
Methods of delivery for our trainings and workshops can vary based on the needs of the department, educational or medical facility. Upon completion of our front-line training session:
- participants will have a clear and concise understanding of how to identify, connect and collaborate with individuals diagnosed with Autism as well as other cognitive or intellectual disabilities.
- participants will learn proactive strategies as front-line workers to confidently assess, engage and support individuals of differing abilities as well as their families in high stress and emergency situations.
- participants will know of resources that can provide communication, behavior management, assist with sensory processing sensitivities and relieve stress and aid in emotional regulation.
