Morrison County launches REACH program with new embedded social worker Ashley Muevic

The Morrison County Board convened on January 28, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the introduction of a new embedded social worker and the progress of a collaborative program aimed at enhancing community support.

The meeting began with an introduction by Jeff Bowman, the Morrison County Adult Services supervisor, who presented Ashley Muevic as the new embedded social worker. Muevic joined the team on December 2, 2024, as part of a new initiative designed to improve community relations and provide assistance in crisis situations. This program, named REACH (Response Embedded Assistance Community Help), aims to reduce the need for law enforcement intervention by addressing underlying issues faced by individuals in the community.

Bowman highlighted the collaborative nature of the program, which involves partnerships with multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Little Falls Police Department, the Morrison County Sheriff's Office, and others. Muevic's role includes responding to welfare checks, mental health crises, and homelessness, with the goal of providing immediate support and resources to those in need.

In the first 36 days of the program, Muevic has already engaged with over 55 individuals, demonstrating the program's early impact. The board discussed initial data collected, noting that while it is too soon for a formal evaluation of the program's effectiveness, there are plans to track progress over the next six months. The data collected will help assess the reduction of repeat calls and the overall success of the initiative.

The meeting also addressed the importance of ongoing collaboration with community partners and the need for continued support for the program. The board expressed optimism about the potential benefits of having an embedded social worker available to assist law enforcement and community members alike.

In conclusion, the Morrison County Board's meeting underscored the importance of innovative approaches to community support and the positive steps being taken to enhance public safety and well-being through the REACH program. Further updates and evaluations are expected as the program continues to develop.