Chelan County BHU makes great strides in 3 years
information released
Photo above: The BHU recently announced the addition of its sixth team member, Olivia Cordell (center). With the addition of Cordell, the BHU now offers nearly 24-hour coverage throughout the week. She is pictured with Sheriff Mike Morrison and Ana Gonzalez, BHU program manager.
The week of Sept. 15 marks National Co-Responder and Crisis Responder Week, a time to honor mental health professionals who respond beside law enforcement to people in need of behavioral health support.
On Tuesday, Chelan County commissioners will consider a proclamation that shines a spotlight on the essential work of the Chelan County Behavioral Health Unit, or BHU, which celebrated its third anniversary on Sept. 1.
In three years, the BHU has grown from one crisis responder to six team members, ensuring nearly 24-hour coverage throughout the week, with additional coverage on weekends, in both Chelan and Douglas counties.
Since 2022, the team has engaged in 14,067 contacts. The BHU responds to calls for services that cover a range of issues, including welfare checks, suicide threats, domestic disturbances and trespassing incidents.
“People call 911 on their worst days, while others contact us due to safety concerns for themselves, loved ones or the public,” said Ana Gonzalez, BHU program manager. “Our partnership with law enforcement and other first responders enables us to approach these situations safely and provide necessary assistance.”
In the last three years, the BHU also has become a leader in the state. Recently, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and BHU were invited to create a comprehensive 10-hour, statewide training program focused on co-response safety practices, in collaboration with the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs. The team also has presented at two national co-responder conferences.
“I am incredibly proud of what our team and the county have achieved over the past three years,” Gonzalez said. “The support from our first responders and the community has been remarkable, as they recognize the value of providing real-time assistance and support to individuals in need. This collaboration also fosters education and equips first responders with the knowledge to better assist community members.”
