Assemblyman Santabarbara to Host Community Event on Autism Wandering Prevention and Response
Families, caregivers and community members invited to learn practical strategies, safety planning and resources to help protect loved ones
Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara is inviting families, caregivers, community members and advocates to attend an important community education event focused on wandering prevention and response for individuals with autism.
The event will provide families with practical information, safety strategies and resources that can help reduce the risks associated with wandering and prepare families and communities to respond quickly when a loved one goes missing.
EVENT DETAILS
| What: | Assemblyman Santabarbara’s Community Event on Wandering Prevention & Response |
|---|---|
| When: | Monday, August 31, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. |
| Where: | Rotterdam Community Center, 705 Curry Road, Rotterdam, NY |
Hosted by Assemblyman Santabarbara in collaboration with the Rotterdam Community Center and the Autism Society of the Greater Hudson Region, the event will address:
- Understanding why wandering occurs and identifying individuals who may be at increased risk;
- Recognizing potential triggers and assessing safety risks in the community;
- Strategies to improve water and community safety;
- Technology and safety resources, including Project Lifesaver, AngelSense and the Yellow Dot Program;
- Developing a personalized wandering safety plan; and
- Building a network of family members, caregivers, first responders and community resources who can help during an emergency.
Wandering can happen unexpectedly, and having a plan, knowing what resources are available and understanding how to respond can make a critical difference. Assemblyman Santabarbara is encouraging families and caregivers to Learn. Plan. Prepare. Protect.
The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is encouraged by calling Assemblyman Santabarbara’s office at 518-382-2941 or registering online at https://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Angelo-Santabarbara/story/118949
