News  Marlboro District Probation Engages with Community at Adaptive Water Safety Day for Children with Autism and Other Special Needs

The Marlboro District Court Probation Department recently engaged with the community by providing food and refreshments for attendees at the Adaptive Water Safety Day, hosted by Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan’s office, Swim Angelfish, and the Massachusetts State Police Dive Team. The Water Safety Day was created for children with autism, ADHD and other special needs.
 
During this March 29th event, children learned "life-saving skills in a supportive environment.” There was also an In-Water Safety Skills Workshop for youngsters ages four to 18 and resource information was provided to their parents.
 
Marlboro District Court Chief Probation Officer Lynn  Dadekian spoke recently about the event and Probation’s community engagement. Chief Dadekian also credited Probation Officer Ashley Losapio for her assistance with the event. Marlboro District First Justice Megan Spring, State Senator Jamie Eldridge, and State Rep. Dan Sena attended this Saturday event. Attendees were treated to pizza, salads, desserts, and soft drinks, juice, and water.
 
“Probation was able to supply the food for the day thanks to our agency’s community engagement efforts and the money allotted to each court. It really was a wonderful day and I want to give all of the credit to Ashley who did the lion’s share of the work for our role in this event,” said Chief Dadekian. 

“Everyone there loved the refreshments from our department and wanted to pass along their appreciation. We were excited about this opportunity to get involved and engage with the children and parents.”
 
“I am truly happy to have taken part in this event that benefits children with special needs and provides guidance to them and their parents on water safety,” said PO Losapio.
 
Under the leadership of Probation Commissioner Pamerson Ifill and his Executive Leadership Team, the Massachusetts Probation Service hosts community engagement events, organized by MPS staff, throughout the state to build community trust, support and engagement as well as to receive valuable input and feedback from the public. MPS  is also working diligently to create a more effective approach  while enhancing Probation policy and practice.