How Code Joshua Transforms Autism Advocacy Through Local Community Support

East Bay Couple's Inspiring Journey: From Personal Struggles to Community Impact

In the vibrant community of Fremont, California, Kerry Rich and Mizpah Brown-Rich stand as beacons of hope and change. Their journey began when they received the news that their son, Joshua, was diagnosed with autism at the tender age of two. Like many parents, they were engulfed in a storm of emotions—confusion, anger, and fear.

Mizpah recalls, “When he came out of the bedroom after three days, Kerry looked into my eyes and said, ‘Babe, this kid is a gift to us. Let’s roll up our sleeves and go to work for him.’” This pivotal moment seeded their commitment to advocacy and support, ultimately leading to the founding of Joshua's Gift in 2017.

The Birth of Joshua's Gift: A Mission of Hope

Joshua's Gift began with a mission to provide connection and support for families navigating the complexities of autism and intellectual developmental disabilities. Over the years, the nonprofit has organized numerous events—from support groups to holiday toys and backpack giveaways—creating spaces for joy and unity.

However, a harrowing incident at a police station transformed their mission into something much larger. Mizpah’s experience when an officer misinterpreted Joshua's affectionate hug as a threat prompted them to act. They recognized the need for first responders to be equipped with the understanding and sensitivity required to interact with autistic individuals during high-stress situations.

Code Joshua: Enhancing Safety for the Autistic Community

In response, they launched Code Joshua, a groundbreaking alert system and registry in collaboration with the Fremont Police Department. This initiative provides officers with critical information about individuals registered, such as their behaviors, triggers, and preferred communication styles, allowing for tailored responses during emergencies.

“When a 911 call is made involving a registered individual, the dispatcher can quickly access pertinent information to inform first responders,” explained Lt. Calvin Tang of the Fremont Police Department. “This knowledge helps us approach the situation with compassion and respect.” Since its launch, hundreds of families, including the Kunzes—who registered their son Brady, who is both autistic and deaf—have sought peace of mind through this system. Brady's mother, Elizabeth, expressed her relief, saying, “With Code Joshua, we feel safer. It’s great knowing the community supports him.”

The Impact of Education and Community Involvement

The success of Code Joshua is further underscored by its training programs. Kerry and Mizpah have educated over 3,000 officers and first responders on how to interact with individuals with autism effectively. They emphasize simple commands and the importance of empathy in ensuring safe interactions during emergencies.

As they reflect on their journey, both parents express their heartfelt dedication to expanding Code Joshua beyond Fremont. Long-term plans include a 24-hour hotline staffed by behavioral analysts, ensuring that law enforcement can access additional support in critical situations. “We envision creating a safe environment across California and the nation for families like ours,” Kerry shared.

The Broader Implications for Autism Awareness and Support

As awareness of autism grows, initiatives like Joshua’s Gift and Code Joshua have broader implications for communities everywhere. They serve as powerful reminders of the impact that informed and compassionate response strategies can have on the lives of neurodiverse individuals, helping to prevent crises before they unfold.

Furthermore, as the National Autism Society reports, one in five individuals on the spectrum is likely to encounter police by the age of 21. Yet, many officers lack the training necessary to effectively handle such encounters. Through their work, Kerry and Mizpah not only strive to reduce these statistics but also inspire others in their communities to step up.

Joining Hands: How You Can Make a Difference

For those who want to support families living with autism, consider advocating for autism awareness and education in your local communities. Engaging with local autism support groups, attending events, and spreading the word about programs like Code Joshua amplifies the message of compassion and understanding.

Whether it’s through fundraising efforts, volunteering to help organize community support events, or simply being an informed ally, there are many ways to contribute.

For Kerry and Mizpah, their journey is only beginning. “It’s a win-win,” said Rich. “We provide the information, the training, and it allows everyone to go home safely.” And with their ongoing efforts, many families facing similar challenges are finding hope, understanding, and connection.

As they accept the ICON Award for their contributions, Kerry and Mizpah remind us of the profound difference one couple can make in a community united by love and support. Their story is a beautiful testament to how personal struggles can transform into widespread change, inspiring countless others to follow suit.