PAINESVILLE, Ohio -- This past Sunday in Mentor-on-the-Lake, Ohio, a spirit of community and compassion filled the air as Lake Erie volleyball joined forces with "Heroes Helping Those With Special Needs" a remarkable local 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to making a difference for individuals with autism and other special needs.

The nonprofit's mission is both simple and powerful: to create safer, more understanding communities through free autism and first-responder training across Ohio. Their team works tirelessly to equip police, firefighters, and EMS professionals with the knowledge and confidence to support individuals with sensory sensitivities and communication challenges. In addition to training, they distribute sensory bags, filled with calming tools and communication aids, to first-responder agencies locally and nationwide.

Their work extends beyond education and resources. The organization also partners directly with local fire and police departments to run a Special Needs Safety Program, ensuring that community members with autism or other special needs are identified in emergency databases, helping first responders provide faster, more personalized assistance during a crisis.

On Sunday, that same mission came to life at the Special Needs Trunk or Treat event, where families from across Lake County gathered for a day of fun, safety, and inclusion. The Lake Erie volleyball team decorated trunks, handed out treats, and spent the afternoon connecting with children and parents in attendance thereby showing that empathy and awareness can go hand-in-hand with celebration.

"Being part of this event reminded our program what true community looks like," said Calaeb Haire, Head Coach of Lake Erie College Volleyball. "Our team is passionate about inclusion, connection, and service, and seeing the smiles on those kids' faces was the best win of the weekend."

Together, the nonprofit and the Storm volleyball program reminded everyone that inclusion isn't just an idea, it's an action. By coming together to celebrate families with special needs and empower the first responders who protect them, they're helping build a community where every person feels seen, supported, and safe.