history

of the Health and Human Services Committee

In the spring of 2016, Debra Hamelback, the former Executive Director of the Paris-Bourbon County Chamber of Commerce, invited Ned Sheehy, the Executive Director of AccuTran Industries/PROTECK, to organize and lead a round-table discussion with human service agencies. The aim was to enhance mutual understanding and collaboration for improved efficiency.

 The initial meeting of the Paris-Bourbon County Human Services Group took place in May 2016, with 19 representatives from various agencies. Since then, the group has expanded to over 80 members, encompassing a diverse mix of public, private, religious, governmental, and elected bodies.

 The group's vision is to establish a united a network of government agencies, community organizations, and schools to enable the Paris-Bourbon County community to access services safely, conveniently, and affordably. The group’s mission is to coordinate these entities to simplify access to resources all.

 Since the formation of this group, the community agencies serving on this group has identified transportation, housing, job training, and the escalating issue of addiction and opioid overdoses as significant barriers to the community.

Despite facing challenges due to Covid-19, the group adapted by transitioning to monthly Zoom meetings. The University of Kentucky's HEALing Communities Study grant and the Bourbon County Health Department's Community Health Improvement Plan study revitalized the group's momentum and purpose.

 This resurgence led to the rebranding of the group as the Paris-Bourbon County Health and Human Services Committee, signifying a renewed commitment to their shared mission and goals.

 The committee meets the fourth Tuesday of each month, except November and December at the Paris-Bourbon County Public Library at noon. The meetings are open to anyone who is interested in participating.

For more information, please contact Ned Sheehy, at 859-494-7733.