Ashland Mental Health Recovery Board Surprises Dispatchers with Appreciation Gifts
Joe Lyons •
September 11, 2024
Ashland- In a heartfelt gesture of gratitude, the Ashland Mental Health Recovery Board (AMHRB) presented surprise gifts to the dispatchers at the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office today. The presentation aimed to acknowledge the crucial role that dispatchers play in managing emergency calls and supporting mental health and substance use crisis responses.
David C. Ross, Executive Director of the AMHRB, delivered the gifts and spoke to the dispatchers, emphasizing the importance of their work. “We are here today to surprise some of the dispatchers with an appreciation gift,” Ross said. “Each year, our association, along with Ohio’s behavioral health authorities, provides grant funding to recognize first responder organizations within the county that excel in their work, especially in areas related to mental health and substance use.”
Ross elaborated on the unique challenges faced by dispatchers, noting their critical role in managing high-stress calls with composure and making rapid, effective decisions. “The calls you handle can be extremely emotional and urgent,” Ross continued. “You remain calm under pressure and make split-second decisions that are vital in determining the appropriate response and ensuring the right resources are deployed.”
The AMHRB’s gesture was aimed at recognizing the dispatchers’ dedication, particularly given their crucial role in mental health crisis situations. “We wanted to offer a token of our appreciation for the hard work and professionalism you exhibit every day,” Ross added. “Your role is essential in setting the stage for successful outcomes in these challenging situations.”
Sheriff E. Wayne Risner of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office expressed his gratitude on behalf of his team. “The mental health board means a lot to us,” Risner said. “We have a group of some of the finest dispatchers anywhere in Ohio. They handle a significant volume of calls, many of which involve mental health concerns. Their professionalism and dedication, especially during tragic incidents, make a substantial difference.”
Risner praised the dispatchers for their ability to handle a diverse range of calls, stressing the importance of their role in supporting both emergency response teams and the community at large. “Every call they answer is different, and their ability to manage these calls with expertise and care is something we take great pride in,” he added.
The surprise gifts, which were personalized for each dispatcher, were well-received by the team, reflecting a shared sense of appreciation and respect for their essential contributions to public safety and community well-being.
