2024
Finalist | Officer Wellness
Monroe County (NY) Sheriff's Office
State: NY
Overview
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) was founded in 1821 and is located in Monroe County, New York. Led by Sheriff Todd Baxter, a 35-year law enforcement veteran, MCSO covers 1,367 square miles with a population of over 750,000 residents. The agency employs 114 civilians and 941 sworn officers across five Bureaus: Police, Jail, Court, Civil, and Staff Services.
In response to the growing need for officer wellness, MCSO implemented the Health & Wellness Program in 2022. Dr. Kimberly Butler was hired to oversee the program, which includes a three-pronged approach: (1) Peer support program, (2) Embedded Officer Wellness clinicians, and (3) Expanded wellness training. The program, comprising a Director, five Officer Wellness Clinicians, and a dedicated Wellness deputy, focuses on building trust by being present in daily activities and responding to critical incidents.
Key highlights of the program’s first year include the creation of a wellness app, holistic wellness initiatives covering mental health, fitness, nutrition, and more. A Wellness Deputy and a wellness dog named “Blue” were added. The program introduced a wellness hotline, one-on-one follow-ups after incidents, and group debriefings. Family events, workshops, and partnerships with local businesses enhanced overall wellness. The success is reflected in increased utilization, positive feedback, and recognition as an Innovative Law Enforcement Leader of 2023 by Police Magazine.
Before the program, support relied on a peer support team and the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The Health & Wellness Program’s unique approach, centered around embedded clinicians, overcame challenges like financial constraints and stigma. The success is evidenced by increased utilization and positive impacts on staff wellness.
The program’s flexibility in engagement, contact modes, hours, and staff assignment contributes to its success. Other agencies looking to replicate this program should prioritize cultural competence, buy-in from administration, and hiring committed and flexible clinical staff.
In conclusion, MCSO Health & Wellness is an innovative and successful program dedicated to officer wellness, providing a comprehensive and flexible approach that addresses the unique needs of law enforcement professionals.
