Shelby County MAT Team

The 2018 recipient marks the fifth time the Geraldine B. Nelson Award has been given to a group or organization. In this case, it is a group made up of organizations, whose purpose is to identify individuals struggling with opioid addiction, who are involved with the courts, and who are appropriate for Medication Assisted Treatment using Vivitrol. With regular and frequent meetings involving substance use treatment providers, law enforcement, probation and court personnel, and other wraparound and supportive services, this group helps individuals break the cycle of addiction and take the first steps on the path of long term recovery. The group’s dedication and support of those in need shines through as they continue to see individual success stories, such as the mom who completed the program and has regained custody of her five children and is now living in her own home. To date, 17 individuals have graduated the program, and another six are scheduled to graduate in November. The professionals who make up this group are the silent cheerleaders for those who want recovery and a new life.
                                                     
It is in recognition of this achievement that the Tri-County Board of Recovery and Mental Health Services recognizes this year’s winner of the Geraldine B. Nelson Advocacy Award, for supportive measures on behalf of another, by promoting the recognition of consumer rights and encouraging positive change in the realm of mental health and addictions issues, presented this day, October 17, 2018, to the Shelby County MAT Team.