News  New Bedford District Probation hosts community event in honor of “fallen” colleague

New Bedford District Court Probation held a Community Block Party in honor of their colleague, Kerri Fidalgo, Probation Case Specialist, who passed away tragically last fall. 

“We held the event in honor of our fallen friend, Kerri Fidalgo, who was taken from us last fall. It was devastating to our community. You won’t find a more caring or loving person. I’m sure she is watching us and is proud of what we continue to accomplish—she was with us in spirit,” said David Branco, First Assistant Chief Probation Officer. 

Approximately 300 local residents turned out for the June 11th event, which featured local DJ Jason Mello, in the courthouse parking lot. Fidalgo’s family was present, donated food, and helped serve the 350-400 hamburgers and hotdogs provided to attendees. Staff distributed over 100 stuffed animals, purchased with funds from the Trial Court Innovation Grant, as well as toiletries bought with donated monies or goods from staff or community leaders. 

"This year’s community event was even bigger and better than last year’s. It wasn’t just the Probation Department, staff from the Clerk’s Office and the Court Officers also came together to help make the block party truly special. At its core, it’s about connecting people with the services they need. Building strong relationships with the community service providers not only strengthens our department but also becomes crucial when budgets tighten and resources are limited. These partnerships allow us to work together to ensure continued support for those we serve," said New Bedford District Court Chief Probation Officer Donald Chausse. 

“We heard from numerous vendors, community leaders, and the public that this event humanizes the Court. It gave them a more positive impression as to who we are, as well as our role in the court system. This is not hyperbole—this is real. Many told us that this was the most impressive community event they’ve seen,” Mr. Branco said. 

Specialty Court coordinator Eric Dorman and PCS Karen Rothwell did most of the cooking over a huge grill, according to Mr. Branco. Leftover food was donated to the Market Ministries Homeless Shelter. 

The New Bedford staff who planned this event include: Chief Probation Officer Donald Chausse, Specialty Court Coordinator Eric Dorman, PCS Karen Swift, PCS Sara Gallagher, PO Drea Manning, PO Jennifer Foley, APO Keri Mendez, APO Shary Pena, APO Asia Strothers. Clerks’ Office staff also volunteered. They include Manager Patty Lunny, Cathy Ruffley, Alicia Silva, and Cole Panayakul. A number of businesses donated items and community partners attended participated in the day's activities. 

Donating Businesses included: DJ Jason Mello; Cisco Brewery; The Baker; Ground Floor Coffee; the Black Whale; Brick Pizzeria; Galaxy Pizza; Colony Drywall; Market Basket; the YWCA; and the Lakeville Family Worship Family. 

Community Partners: New Bedford Fire Department; the Bristol DA’s office; the Shannon Project; New Bedford Public Health Department; the Beyond House; and the New Bedford Police Department Outreach Team. 

Community engagement is a key priority for the Massachusetts Probation Service. MPS employees across the state plan and host a wide-range of events designed to develop meaningful connections with clients and their families as well as engage with the larger community.