Golden Heart Group -Vernon Price

I met Vernon when he called the Mobile Unit to assist him with a neighborhood situation where a chronically mentally ill person was living on the street. She was aggressively panhandling, approaching passers- by and people stopped in their cars and demanding money. Shopkeepers and residents of the neighborhood had become fearful of her behavior.

Vernon was approached by the committee-person for whom he worked and was asked to find a resolution to this problem.

Vernon recognized that the woman was sick and contacted me. After five or so days of trying to find the least restrictive disposition for this woman, she was finally petitioned for in-patient hosp.

Vernon shows the insight to see what is needed in the many and varied situations he comes in contact with, calling in the people who not only deal with the short-term solutions but help plan for the long-term, to hopefully prevent recurrences of the event.

He keeps in touch with what is going on in the Mt. Airy area, working with the business community, neighborhood organizations, the Police and individuals who need help negotiating the sometimes difficult road to get things done in this political climate.

I see his approach as low key, but no nonsense and he works until the situation is resolved.

I feel that Vernon deserves this award because of his dedication to the community and his attitude of not seeking the limelight for the things that he does, taking satisfaction in helping others and making the community a better place for everyone.