Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities and father of an adult son with autism, will join community leaders and advocates this evening for an important educational workshop focused on wandering prevention and safety for autistic individuals and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Hosted by the Al Hidaya Center in partnership with its BARAKA Program and the Autism Society of Greater Hudson Region, the program comes in response to a recent tragedy in the community and will provide families with practical strategies, safety planning resources, and information on technology that can help prevent wandering incidents.

WHO: Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Tracy Schober, Executive Director, Autism Society Greater Hudson Region, Representatives from the Al Hidaya Center and BARAKA Program, Families, caregivers, and community members

WHAT:

"From Prevention to Response: Creating a Wandering Safety Plan" – A community workshop on wandering prevention, water safety, technology resources, and personalized safety planning for autistic individuals.

WHEN:

Monday, July 6, 2026

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Al Hidaya Center (Gym), 322 Troy Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110

Wandering is a serious safety concern for many autistic individuals and others with developmental disabilities. This workshop will equip families with practical tools to better protect their loved ones while strengthening community awareness and preparedness. Assemblyman Santabarbara will discuss New York State's ongoing efforts to improve safety, support, and resources for individuals with disabilities and their families.