The sensory bags contain noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, picture exchange communication boards and information cards with QR codes linking to autism resources.

“Kids with autism are clearly growing up to be adults with autism. Whether they’re having a hard day at age four or a hard day at age 34, that looks scary to everybody else who’s not familiar with that,” Hiles told the Standard-Examiner. “So, we’re seeing an increase in calls to law enforcement from those in the community who are noticing that there are stressful situations happening.”

According to Hiles, some first responders have limited training in communicating with individuals with autism or related conditions, which can make it difficult to properly assess and de-escalate situations. The sensory bags are designed to bridge that gap and reduce misunderstandings.

“You’ll notice our individuals will cover their ears or turn away, especially when someone’s calling their name or giving them a command,” Hiles said. “Sometimes that’s interpreted as they’re not listening to the officer or even a fireman trying to help them. So, (first responders) can offer them some headphones, the individuals will put them on and they instantly look to them for more direction. So, they’ve gained that rapport.”

The council has provided materials to agencies throughout the Weber-Davis area and all along the Wasatch Front, but its mission is to help people statewide.

“We’re going corner to corner through the whole state,” Hiles said. “There’s a lot of Utah off of (Interstate 15). We go east to west in those rural parts, the busy city parts and we’re getting everyone. The more we pass out, the more other departments are saying, ‘Hey, we haven’t got it yet. We would like those, too.'”

The feedback from departments has been overwhelmingly positive, per Hiles, who praised their efforts to promote understanding.

“We’re so thankful for our law enforcement and first responders and for their service to our community and to our population and look forward to continuing to work with them,” she said.

Despite their varying backgrounds and time commitments, council members are committed to supporting individuals, families and public safety agencies alike. Hiles, a caseworker contracted with the Utah Division of Services for People with Disabilities, said volunteering helps her better connect with the people she serves.

“We’re all volunteers. We all have careers or jobs during the day. So, we’re all busy and kind of understand that each other are busy, but we provide all the resources or the guidance resources in Utah for those with an autism diagnosis.”

In addition to preparing and delivering sensory bags, the Autism Council works to connect people with essential information and resources. The organization also provides grants to businesses or providers offering autism-related services.

On Aug. 13, the council will host its annual “Swing For the Spectrum” golf tournament at Thanksgiving Point to help raise funds and awareness for its activities. According to Hiles, every dollar the group raises is spent in Utah. The group is also seeking volunteers.

For more information or to get involved, go to https://www.autismcouncilofutah.org/.