Travis Akins is the Founder & Creator of the mutually beneficial Growth Through Opportunity (GTO) Cadets training program for individuals with I/DD and first responders alike. GTO is officially endorsed by the National Sheriffs’ Association and proudly awarded the 2017 Champion of Change - Organization of the Year on Capitol Hill by the National Down Syndrome Society, the 2017 HARVARD Kennedy School Bright Ideas & Innovation in American Government award recipient, and the 2015 American Red Cross Local Hero award. GTO has been featured at national conventions for Project Lifesaver International, The Arc of the United States, the National Down Syndrome Society, and the Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action, and a 2018 U.S. Department of Justice COPS Office Podcast. Travis is also a law enforcement advisor to the National Center on Criminal Justice & Disability and passionately dedicates his life to enhancing safety for all!