April is Autism Awareness Month, and community members are invited to join the Ventura Police Department and the Autism Society Ventura County for coffee, conversation, and a fundraiser. The free event will be hosted on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, from 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at Starbucks, located at 1945 S. Victoria Avenue in Ventura.
“This month, we are proud to join the nationwide effort to support our community members living with autism,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “We are launching a limited-edition t-shirt design promoting autism awareness. All proceeds from t-shirt sales will support the Autism Society and its many great programs.”
Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for residents, students, and kids to engage with local police officers, ask questions, and share feedback.
The majority of contacts Ventura Police Officers have with the public often happen during emergencies or extremely emotional incidents, which are not always the most effective time to have a friendly conversation with officers. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for relaxed, one-on-one interactions.
“This is a cause that I am passionate about because I have a child with autism,” said Officer Aric Almaguer. “I hope that this event will help increase community awareness, strengthen relationships, and raise funds for local families in need of additional support.”
The purchase of all Autism Awareness Month t-shirts was provided by the Ventura Police Community Foundation. Learn more about the Ventura Police Community Foundation at www.VenturaPoliceFoundation.org.
For additional information, please contact Emily Graves, Community Outreach Specialist with the Ventura Police Department, at [email protected].
Background on the Autism Society Ventura County:
The Autism Society Ventura County works to promote lifelong access and opportunity for all individuals within the autism spectrum and their families to be fully included members of the Autism community, empowering everyone to live fully. They achieve this through education, advocacy, and a variety of programs, increasing public awareness and collaboration with local agencies. Learn more at AutismVentura.org.