Bettendorf Police Department dons Autism Patch

The Bettendorf Police Department is partnering with the Quad Cities Autism Center and Hand in Hand to brighten up officers’ dark uniforms in April for World Autism Month with a brand-new patch featuring colorful puzzle pieces, which is a symbol used by several autism awareness and acceptance groups.

Bettendorf police worked with Code 4 Public Safety Emblems in Davenport to design a The Autism Awareness Patch, which is in addition to the Bettendorf Police’s Breast Cancer

Awareness Patch featured every October that coincides with the Pink Patch Project, a national public awareness campaign.

The Bettendorf Police Department is not the only one supporting this cause. Anyone can pre-order a patch for $10 along with apparel that showcases the patch at www.bettendorf.org/PatchStore. 

The online store, created by LogoPro in Bettendorf, is open until Sunday, March 31. Patches  also will be available to purchase in April at the Family Museum and the Bettendorf Public Library, which are both Certified Autism CentersTM (CAC), as well as at the police department and LiveWell Chiropractic & Wellness Center, 3456 Holiday Court A, Bettendorf. 

The department said proceeds will go to the Quad Cities Autism Center and Hand in Hand. 

In a news release, Michelle Smyth, Quad Cities Autism Center director, said “100% of the funds we receive will go towards our Quad Cities Autism Center Grant Program. This program helps families in financial need afford research-based autism therapy.”

“Out-of-pocket costs can be staggering and the Quad Cities Autism Center Grant Program makes it possible for many families every year to access the medically necessary treatment their child desperately needs,” she added. 

Hand in Hand CEO Angie Kendall said her organization is “deeply grateful to have been selected as one of the charities for these funds.” 

“With your generous support, we can continue to provide our inclusive programs, ensuring that every child and adult, regardless of ability, can learn and grow into empowered individuals,” she added. “Your contribution will make a meaningful difference in fostering a more inclusive Quad Cities community.”

Bettendorf Police Chief Keith Kimball asked the public to join his department in helping increase awareness and understanding of autism and to celebrate those with autism. “By showing this support we can strive to reach the goal of achieving true acceptance for those with autism in our communities,” he said.