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Sertoma Centre Provides Training for Alsip Firefighters


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A group of Alsip firefighters attend a Sertoma Centre training on September 12. (PHOTO SUPPLIED)

Alsip, IL–(ENEWSPF)– During the month of September, staff at Sertoma Centre are busy training members of the Alsip Fire Department on the basics of developmental, physical, emotional disabilities and/or mental illness.

These trainings are just another example of the mutual support that exists between Sertoma Centre and the Alsip firefighters. The fire department is very much involved with Sertoma’s annual BIG Event fundraiser, competing in several of the popular firefighter’s cook-off categories.

According to Autism Services Program Manager, Nicole Todd-Melquist, the fire department contacted Sertoma in order to become more knowledgeable about the population they serve.

“[The Alsip Fire Department] made the request for our staff to provide training to better prepare paramedics for dealing with individuals with developmental disabilities when they are called to Sertoma facilities,” Todd-Melquist explained. “The two training sessions that we have completed to date have gone well.”

In the course of these two hour sessions, firefighters hear from various Sertoma staff members regarding individuals served at the agency. Topics include introduction to mental illness and physical disabilities, dual diagnosis, medications, behaviors, and supports and interventions.

“The sessions we’ve had have been very engaging and interactive,” Todd-Melquist said, “the [ Alsip ] department had a great dialogue during the whole process.”

Sertoma Centre, Inc. is a nationally-accredited, not-for-profit agency that provides services to over 600 individuals with developmental, physical and emotional disabilities, and/or mental illness. 

For more information, to schedule a tour, or to make a donation, please contact Melanie Jones, director of advancement and communications, Sertoma Centre, 4343 West 123rd Street , Alsip , IL 60803 . (708) 371-9700 ext. 206, www.sertomacentre.org.


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