Groveland Police Receive Life Matters Award

Groveland Police received the Life Matters Award this week. From left to right, are state Sen. Bruce Tarr, state Rep. Lenny Mirra, Chief Robert Kirmelewicz and Deputy Chief Jeffrey Gillen. (Courtesy Photograph.)

The Groveland Police Department this week received the Life Matters award from American Training for its community policing efforts.

State Sen. Bruce Tarr and state Rep. Lenny Mirra presented the award to Chief Robert Kirmelewicz and Deputy Chief Jeffrey Gillen during a ceremony at Monday evening’s board of selectmen meeting at Groveland Town Hall.

“Our relationship with American Training is a valued partnership within our community where we are able to positively effect the lives of our residents,” Deputy Chief Gillen said. “We are honored to receive this Life Matters award and will continue to help those in need, no matter the situation or circumstance.”

Groveland is one of just 10 departments in Massachusetts to earn the recognition.

American Training provides workforce development, day habilitation, education and specialized housing plans to help those who are unemployed, under-employed, at risk, people with disabilities and those with limited marketable or language skills.

Groveland Police have brought a calming presence to potentially upsetting episodes among residents at American Training facilities, provided an escort to emergency rooms and even stopped by to say hello to residents, using their community policing philosophy, a statement said.