Lisle Village implements social worker program through partnership with Northeast DuPage Family Services

During the recent Committee of the Whole meeting for the Village of Lisle, significant discussions centered around a proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing community support through the introduction of a dedicated police social worker. Chief Rodriguez introduced the initiative, emphasizing its potential to provide vital mental health support to residents and assist police officers in managing challenging situations.

The MOU would establish a partnership between the Village and Northeast DuPage Family and Youth Services (NEDFIS), with plans for the social worker to spend approximately 20 hours per week at the police station. This initiative is expected to be partially funded through grants from the Lyle Township Mental Health Board, which would help offset the costs associated with the pilot program.

Trustee Lesniak expressed strong support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the social worker and ensure effective communication with the public. He raised concerns about managing expectations and preventing burnout for the social worker, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and public education regarding the resource.

Chief Rodriguez acknowledged these concerns, noting that the social worker would not only assist residents but also provide support to police officers, particularly during traumatic incidents. He described the social worker as a valuable resource that could bridge gaps in mental health services, offering counseling and training to officers about available resources.

Trustee McGovern, who previously served as a trustee for Lyle Township, praised the initiative as a cost-effective project with significant potential benefits for the community. Meanwhile, Trustee Crabill sought clarification on the employment status of the social worker, confirming that they would be employed by NEDFIS and that the MOU would initially cover a one-year period, with the possibility of extension based on the program's effectiveness.

The discussions underscored a collective commitment among board members to enhance mental health support within the community, with plans to evaluate the program's success and explore options for expanding the social worker's role in the future. As the Village moves forward with this initiative, the focus will remain on ensuring that both residents and police officers receive the necessary support to address mental health challenges effectively.