UH-Hilo, Big Island nonprofit partner to promote equality, acceptance for people living with developmental disabilities

Rosalinda Larkin is working tirelessly to raise awareness for autism and developmental disabilities with events that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is collaborating with Larkin and the Autism Support and Disability Center to host the fourth annual Walk for Autism Awareness. This inclusive event aims to connect individuals living with autism and other disabilities, while encouraging community participation in a movement toward acceptance and appreciation.

“There are not many opportunities for people with autism and developmental disabilities to meet others and connect with a community outside their bubble,” Larkin said. “I’m so grateful that UH Hilo is hosting the event for the first time because we want students to feel comfortable participating and learning more about people living with these disabilities.”

The event’s purpose is to foster acceptance and inclusion for all individuals, and it also serves as a platform for community members to share experiences and advocate for the rights and equality of those living with disabilities.

Last year, Larkin announced that the Autism Support and Disability Center would begin printing Alert Cards for First Responders, which would assist paramedics, police, and other first responders in emergencies involving individuals with specific needs.

“That was a huge moment for me, because educating law enforcement about these disabilities was the reason I started the Autism Support and Disability Center in the first place,” Larkin said. “This year, we’re able to step that up with a new piece of technology that could improve the lives of people living with neurodevelopmental disabilities and the lives of their families.”

The “Black Bird Smart Watch,” an innovative, wearable device designed to enhance communication and safety for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities, will be highlighted during this year’s event. The technology supports greater independence and bridges communication between individuals and first responders.

According to Larkin, the inventors of the watch will travel to Hilo for the event to show attendees how to use it.

“Hawaiʻi is one of the first states to get hands-on experience with these watches,” Larkin said. “The people behind the Black Bird Smart Watch will be at our event to give live demonstrations showcasing the device’s features and real-life applications.”

The Black Bird Smart Watch, which is eligible for reimbursement through Medicaid and Medicare, includes:

• Built-in GPS for location tracking
• 24/7 emergency support with a single button press
• Body temperature monitor
• Fall detection
• SMS and call alerts to designated contacts
• Bluetooth connectivity

In addition to the Black Bird Smart Watch demonstrations, there will be local organizations offering resources for people living with disabilities and their families, along with sensory-friendly games and activities.

“We wanted to participate in this important event to support the community and make them aware of the options that are out there for loved ones living with developmental disabilities,” Chancellor Kalei Rapoza said. “This is the first time we’ve hosted this event, and if it goes well, we hope to become more involved with community-led events in the future.”

The free, public event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the Autism Awareness Walk beginning at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Campus Center.