COURTESY
SPRINGFIELD, Vt. — Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s non-profit community mental-health agency, was recognized by the Vermont House of Representatives for its 50 years of mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services.
In a concurrent resolution signed by the Senate and House of Representatives on May 3, the nonprofit agency was recognized for many highlights of its history, including the opening of its Beekman House residential program in 1979, beginning to offer employment services in 1984, establishing a school-based program in 1987, launching its Police Social Work program in 2002, achieving Joint Commission accreditation in 2003, and opening Vermont’s first Crisis Care Center in 2010.
Valerie A. Stuart, Mollie Burke, and Tristan Toleno, House representatives for the Windham District, sponsored the resolution in honor of the agency’s 50th anniversary.
The resolution further highlights the comprehensive services offered at HCRS, including mental health support services, substance abuse services, and developmental disability services. The agency provides these supports for individuals and families across Windsor and Windham Counties and has regional offices located in Springfield, Bellows Falls, Brattleboro, Hartford, and Windsor, Vermont.
HCRS CEO George Karabakakis was asked to attend the legislative ceremony for the signing of the resolution.
“We are thankful for the recognition of the Vermont legislature for the services we have provided in our communities for more than half a century. A special thanks to Valerie Stuart, Mollie Burke, and Tristan Toleno for their work to highlight the significant need for social services,” Karabakakis said.
Founded in 1967, HCRS serves more than 4,000 individuals every year in Windham and Windsor counties. Visit www.hcrs.org for more information.
As your daily newspaper, we are committed to providing you with important local news coverage for Sullivan County and the surrounding areas.