BLAINE, Minn. – For several years local leaders from a variety of organizations have worked together to take their compassion for those in need and to put it into action.
“It’s a collaboration of faith communities, non-profits, and government organizations working together to meet the social service needs of Anoka County,” explains Mary Jo Loftus, board member of the Compassion Action Network.
The Compassion Action Network was created to inspire collaboration and to build a network of services that support each other.
“We’re bringing these groups together so we don’t duplicate surfaces,” says Loftus, “We want to network efforts so we don’t have duplication in the county.”
This week they held their annual spring forum and spent the morning learning about the growing mental health and wellness needs of the community. Sheriff James Stuart shared his personal and professional observations and experiences relating to mental health and well being. The forum also included a panel discussion that indentified practical resources for getting the proper services to those who are in need.
“We just want everyone to understand where to go for mental health services for themselves or someone else,” comments Loftus.