A Life in Progress

Probation officers are extensively trained to assist clients in making positive behavior changes.?

It is a simple concept but requires complex strategies and highly engaged officers. Even with our best efforts we often see resistant clients and unfortunate setbacks.

Crucially important is a high quality, professional relationship between the officer and client. Although this is happening on a regular basis, it is rarely acknowledged.

Recently, Officer Patrick Erwin of Sussex Probation, received such an acknowledgement of his efforts from one of his former clients.

She contacted Erwin to let him know about the impact he had on her through her difficult journey. Specifically, his guidance and support during difficult times.

This young lady, mother of a small child, was asked to speak at a local overdose awareness night. She spoke of her struggles with substance abuse and her path in recovery.

With a history of overdoses, she is now a drugfree member of the community focused on her sobriety. She made a point in her public speech to reference her experience with Officer Erwin.

“My PO [probation officer] Patrick was the first person to believe I could get better. People think of their PO’s as people looking to get them in trouble or people who don’t really care about you but that’s not the case at least not in my experience. Patrick had my back and he made sure to tell me I could do this on the regular. I don’t know if he knows how much he truly helped me.”

This is just one example that demonstrates the crucial work probation officers conduct and the life changing impacts they have on their communities. These acknowledgements strengthen our resolve to work harder and reach more clients that deserve healthier, more stable lives as contributory members of our society.