Community navigator honored by PAARI

By Ethan Forman

» Staff Writer

For his work helping those in the community overcome addiction, substance use disorder and housing insecurity, the Police Department Community Impact Unit’s community navigator, Tito Rodriguez, was honored by the Beverly-based Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative.

Rodriguez was presented with the PAARI Leadership Award by Chair and Co-Founder John Rosenthal of Gloucester who played a key role in establishing the original Angel Program in Gloucester in 2015.

Rodriguez was honored with the special recognition during the PAARI Leadership Awards held at the Tampa River Center in Tampa, Florida, on Feb. 25 as part of the PAARI National Law Enforcement Summit.

“It was a humbling experience to be acknowledged for my work alongside the Gloucester Police Department’s Community Impact Unit in supporting individuals with substance use disorder and assisting them on their path to recovery,” said Rodriguez, a Gloucester resident, in an email.

Among his work, Rodriguez has helped establish the “Teach to Reach” academy within the Community Impact Unit, a program that trains others, including those who have recovered from addiction, to become recovery coaches.

“We are really proud of Tito,” said police Chief Edward Conley. “Gloucester is fortunate to have such a nationally recognized authority in addiction working here in our community.”

“This honor is a testament to your unwavering commitment, dedication, and leadership in advancing the important work of supporting individuals struggling with substance use disorders through innovative community partnerships,” said Rosenthal and Zoe Grover, the organization’s executive director, in a letter to Rodriguez announcing the award.

“Your exceptional efforts have profoundly impacted individuals, families and communities. By embodying the spirit of collaboration and compassion, you have contributed to the success of PAARI’s mission and inspired others to join in this critical work of breaking the cycle of addiction and offering hope to those in need,” wrote Rosenthal and Grover.

“Thank you for your dedication and for being a beacon of hope and leadership in this field,” Grover and Rosenthal wrote. “Your work makes a meaningful difference, and we look forward to your ongoing contributions to this vital cause.”

Ethan Forman may be contacted at 978-675-2714, or at eforman@northofboston.com.

Gloucester Police Department Community Impact Unit Community Navigator Tito Rodriguez, left, was recently honored with a Leadership Award from the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative from PAARI Chair and Co-Founder John Rosenthal of Gloucester, during the organization’s National Law Enforcement Summit in Tampa, Florida.

COASTAL CLICK PHOTOGRAPHY/ Courtesy photo