Stamford EMS starts new program and other news

New Stamford EMS Community Resources Access Initiative provides resources for individuals seeking information related to domestic violence, senior services, child abuse and neglect, human trafficking, substance abuse, and mental health services.

Brian Roman, a Stamford High Alumnus and Berklee College of Music graduate, played the Grand Ole Opry for the first time on April 11. He is the drummer for country artist Meghan Patrick. He is also seen in her new video for a song released April 14 titled "Greatest Show on Dirt" which is available on Youtube.

Stamford Emergency Medical Services, the city's 911 paramedic ambulance provider, has created the Community Resources Access Initiative to provide Stamford residents and visitors with resources for a variety of health and human service needs. The program provides information for individuals seeking resources related to domestic violence, senior services, child abuse and neglect, human trafficking, substance abuse and mental health services. Every SEMS vehicle carries pamphlets listing vital information in multiple languages and a distinctive green triangle as a logo. SEMS also provides access to resources via a QR code listed on the exterior of every SEMS vehicle that can be accessed via smartphone. The QR code directs community members to a SEMS web page listing resources and links. Using the QR code is anonymous and free to access. "We are taking a proactive step to help those in our community locate helpful resources (about topics) ranging from domestic violence and child abuse to family therapy and more," said Edward Browne, Stamford EMS Chief. "And with Stamford being among the most diverse cities in our nation, we are offering that help in a variety of languages." The project was led by SEMS Captain Bill Ackley and SEMS office manager Jennifer Lopez in response to a new state mandate requiring EMS vehicles to have domestic violence and child abuse resource information available for patients. The information is translated into Spanish, Portuguese, Polish and Creole. Additional languages can be added as the program expands, officials said.

Stamford-based Americares, the health-focused relief and development organization, has earned another four-star rating — the highest possible — from Charity Navigator, America's largest independent charity evaluator. The rating designates Americares as an official "Give with Confidence" charity, indicating that the organization is using its donations effectively based on Charity Navigator's criteria.

"We are incredibly proud and honored to once again receive a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for our strong financial management and commitment to transparency while executing our mission of saving lives and improving health for people affected by poverty or disaster," said Americares President and CEO Christine Squires. "New and existing donors can be assured that their hard-earned dollars will be used efficiently and effectively to help people in need around the world."

Charity Navigator analyzes nonprofit performance based on four key indicators, referred to as beacons. Nonprofits can earn scores for the impact and results, accountability and finance, culture and community and leadership and adaptability beacons.

"We are delighted to provide Americares with third-party accreditation that validates their operational excellence," said Charity Navigator President and CEO Michael Thatcher. "The four-star rating is the highest possible rating an organization can achieve. We are eager to see the good work that Americares is able to accomplish in the years ahead."