LoneStar LEND hosts first Disaster Readiness Expo for the ASD/IDD community
On May 9, 2026, the LoneStar LEND Program hosted the first Disaster Readiness EXPO of its kind focused specifically on individuals and families with autism spectrum disorder and intellectual and developmental disabilities (ASD/IDD). The event was held at the Jim and JoAnn Fonteno Senior Education Center, made possible through the support of Harris County Precinct 4.
This initiative was the result of a collaborative effort among LoneStar LEND faculty, staff, current and former trainees, community partners, generous donors, and volunteers from UTHealth Houston, the University of Houston–Clear Lake (UHCL), Texas Woman’s University (TWU), and Cole Pediatrics, among others. Faculty members involved in the trans-institutional planning committee included Pauline Filipek, MD; Patricia Bowyer, OT, EdD; and Judy Blake, with program coordinators Annie Rangel Sandoval and Bertha Frausto supporting planning and coordination efforts.
Bridging the gap in services
Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey on Harris County in 2017, the LoneStar Leadership Education in autism and related Neurodevelopmental Disabilities [LEND] Program launched a multi-year initiative aimed at improving disaster preparedness and emergency response for individuals with ASD/IDD. After witnessing firsthand the significant gaps in services, accessibility, and supports available to the disability community during and after the storm, LoneStar LEND faculty were inspired to act and develop more inclusive, community-centered preparedness efforts alongside trainees. As part of this initiative, the LoneStar LEND team conducted extensive research on disaster preparedness practices and resources both within the United States and internationally to identify best practices and guide program development.
Additionally, the cohort conducted an ASD/IDD Family Needs Assessment Survey focused on disaster preparedness in Harris County. To better reflect the community served, the survey was translated into English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, the most spoken languages among participating families. This effort helped the team gain a broader understanding of the unique preparedness challenges and needs experienced by families of individuals with ASD/IDD.
Additional resources for disaster preparedness
- American Red Cross Prepare with Pedro (external link) and Become a Preparedness Champion (external link)
- U.S. Government Ready Kids (external link) and Student Tools for Emergency Planning (external link) (STEP)
Building upon these findings, the team developed the first Disaster Readiness EXPO specifically focused on ASD/IDD. Families had the opportunity to explore emergency preparedness in a supportive, sensory-conscious environment by practicing rescue boat procedures, learning about emergency supplies, trying on flotation devices, and using noise-canceling headphones during emergency simulations. Families participating in the EXPO also received a tote bag filled with emergency preparedness resources and supplies to support continued planning at home. Items included a life vest, noise-canceling headphones, two emergency decals for indoor window use, a hand-crank flashlight and radio, a 20-week preparedness checklist, and additional emergency preparedness information and resources tailored for families of individuals with ASD/IDD.
Many thanks to our community partners
The EXPO was made possible through strong collaboration and community partnerships. LoneStar LEND extends sincere appreciation to Commissioner Lesley Briones and Harris County Precinct 4; the Bayland Community Center and Fonteno Senior Education Center; Harris County Constables from Precincts 1 and 4; the Gulf-7 Pediatric Disaster Network; the U.S. Marine Corps Littoral Craft Company C; 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion from Galveston; the Houston Fire Department; the Houston Police Department; and the many volunteers who generously shared their time, expertise, and commitment to supporting families in emergency preparedness.
The Disaster Readiness EXPO was about far more than emergency preparedness. It was about building confidence, reducing fear, and empowering families to feel safer and more prepared during times of crisis. One of the most meaningful moments of the day was seeing children, teens, and adults with ASD/IDD become more comfortable and familiar with emergency vehicles and first responders, many for the very first time.
By prioritizing the needs of individuals with ASD/IDD and their families, LoneStar LEND continues to strengthen disaster preparedness efforts while helping build a more compassionate and accessible community for all.