The Safe Passage program in Taylorville is looking to expand its outreach, recruit volunteer drivers, and ramp up fundraising.  The program works in conjunction with the Taylorville Police Department to help community members recover from drug addiction and rebuild their lives.  Coordinator Denise Evans says informational brochures will soon appear at public establishments in town. 

The program has volunteer drivers who transport those in the program to and from rehab visits.  They are always open to more volunteers, especially in the winter, when many regular drivers are out of town.  Those interested are asked to call Safe Passage at (217) 777-0080.

Those who go through the Safe Passage program and complete drug court are honored at a “graduation” ceremony.  Each graduate speaks at the event, and the public is welcome to attend. 

As coordinator, Evans is part of the entire process for each individual in the program.  It starts with the initial consultation, which an individual initiates simply by coming to the Taylorville Police Department.  She listens to that person’s story and encourages them to be fully open. 

The Safe Passage program always accepts in-kind donations.  Checks can be mailed to the Taylorville Police Department, to the attention of Safe Passage.  Their address is 108 West Vine Street, Taylorville, IL 62568.  More information is available here.

Denise Evans appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.