A Clarksdale man was recently recognized for his contributions to health and health care in rural Mississippi communities.
Shane Garrard received the 2018 Rural Health Champion Award during a ceremony held in conjunction with Mississippi Rural Health Day, which was held Tuesday, Nov. 20.
Garrrard is the director of alcohol and drug services for the Region One Mental Health Center in Clarksdale. He oversees all clinical operations for Sunflower Landing, an adolescent long-term alcohol and drug treatment center; the Fairland Center, a residential treatment center for adults, including expectant mothers and men and women who wish to have their children with them; as well as recovery support and prevention services throughout the region.
“Through his dedicated contribution of time and effort to the mental health and alcohol and drug treatment in Coahoma, Quitman, Tallahatchie and Tunica counties, Mr. Garrard is a perfect example that one individual can make a difference,” said a press release from the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute for the Elimination of Health Disparities, which sponsors the award.
Garrard was recognized for his work in tackling the opioid crisis in rural Mississippi.
He has experience in substance abuse counseling with both adolescents and adults and has over 17 years of experience.
Garrard received his bachelor of social work degree from Delta State University and his master of social work degree from Mississippi Valley State University.
He is a licensed master social worker and is certified through the Mississippi Association of Addictions Professionals as a certified alcohol and drug counselor level II and a certified clinical supervisor. He is trained as a trainer in motivational interviewing, CPI and mental health first aid.
Garrard works on a specific grant with the Arc of Mississippi ensuring that people with disabilities get the services they need. He sits on the Circuit 11 Drug Court board and has done numerous trainings with the Mississippi School of Addictions and Social Work Conferences on methamphetamine and motivational interviewing.
“He is a peer ambassador for the state and is willing to share his experience with anyone willing to hear,” said the press release.
Garrard is the co-chair of the Executive Steering Committee for adolescents in the state. He was also recently approved to become a board member for Disability Rights Mississippi.
Garrard was awarded the Katherine Turcotte Addiction Professional of the Year in 2013 and is a true believer in Narcotics Anonymous.
He is happily married and has two children and two stepchildren.
