LOCAL ROTARIANS LEARN FROM POLICE OFFICER

At the first regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Sanford-Springvale for the 2022-2023 year, held at the Nasson Little Theater earlier today, members heard from one of their own - Colleen Adams.  She serves as the Community Outreach Officer for the Mental Health Unit of the Sanford Police Department.  

It is safe to say that no day is the same as another day in Colleen's world.  She told the Rotarians, "Every time I begin a day, I have a checklist.  By the end of that day, I have even more items on a NEW checklist and realize I have most llikely not gotten anything done on the first checklist!"

Colleen suggested that had she been asked about such a position a few years ago, she might have questioned the department's need for such a unit, but now that she has been actively involved with the department, as well as those who are experiencing homelessness or possible alcohol or drug dependency, she feels this type of unit is almost compulsory for any and all communities.  

There is a certain understanding and compassion exhibited by Colleen and during the Q&A session near the conclusion of her remarks, she indicated that perhaps it would be beneficial for all of the Rotarians to hear from another member of the unit and be trained as to how to administer NARCAN in an emergency.  Elias Thomas, president of the Rotary Club assured officer Adams that "we would welcome that opportunity to further serve our community."  

This past January, under the leadership of Thomas, the Rotary Club sponsored an event, with the support of EXIT Realty Corp International, to assist with the programs of the Sanford Houssing Authority and the Sanford Police Department in their dealings with those who  are experiencing being unhoused or suffering from chemical dependency.  According to Thomas, "We already have plans for our second JANUARY THAW Event in 2023!"