WELLINGTON, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2026) — A Palm Beach County autism resource event that draws families from across the region is returning later this month, with organizers pitching it as a day built around low-pressure fun, practical support, and the kind of positive contact with law enforcement that many families say can be hard to come by outside of emergency calls.
"A Day for Autism" is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Village Park in Wellington (11700 Pierson Road). The event is free, with organizers asking attendees to RSVP in advance and include the number of adults and children in their group.
The event is being presented by the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office in partnership with the Village of Wellington and Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities, commonly known as FAU CARD.
For families, the day is designed to look and feel more like a community festival than an appointment or a program. Organizers list a slate of kid-friendly activities including a petting zoo, face painting, a bounce house, games, arts and crafts, and a trackless train. There is also a “Touch A Truck” zone and stage programming with music and performances throughout the day.
A key feature, organizers say, is giving families and individuals with autism spectrum disorder a chance to meet first responders and deputies in a controlled setting, on a day when no one is in crisis. Planned interaction opportunities include therapy dogs, a mounted unit, ATV and motor units, a 911 bus, and fire rescue.
Organizers also say the event is built around sensory and comfort needs, with a cool-down area for kids and a relax zone for parents. Food and treats are part of the draw as well: lunch is listed as free, provided by Bolay, with Kona Ice also listed among the on-site offerings.
Beyond the activities, the picnic is positioned as a one-stop resource point for families navigating autism services. FAU CARD staff are expected to attend along with autism community provider agencies, vendors, and other groups offering information and local support options for children, adults, and families living with ASD.
Organizers describe three core goals: create positive, enjoyable interaction with law enforcement; bring community resources into one place so parents and caregivers can more easily identify who to contact for specific needs; and provide a judgment-free environment where members of the autism community can try activities they might avoid at a more typical large public event.
The event has grown in scale. Organizers say last year’s event drew more than 1,000 participants and included more than 70 resource vendors, and they expect strong turnout again this year.
FAU CARD’s role is a familiar one locally, particularly for Palm Beach County families who have used its services. The center provides consulting, training, and support at no charge for people with autism and related disabilities, their families, employers, and the professionals and agencies that serve them. The stated aim is to help optimize outcomes and support for people with autism and related disabilities across the community.
Organizers say attendees should RSVP through Eventbrite. For questions about becoming a sponsor, vendor, or event performer, the listed contact is PBSO Investigator Scott Poritz at [email protected] or 561-622-2319. For questions about Eventbrite registration, the listed contact is CARD clinician Kelley Bastien at [email protected] or 561-235-8412.
