In this video, part of a “Champions of Deflection” series, two leaders in the field of deflection are interviewed. Chief Dan Meloy (retired) started as a police officer before rising to the ranks of chief of police and, eventually, director of public safety in Colerain Township, Ohio. In this interview, he speaks about using a person-centered approach to deflection by emphasizing the importance of community trust and the role of first responders in promoting public safety beyond law enforcement. For Chief Meloy, success in deflection is measured not just by data but by the personal impact of helping individuals and families.

Also interviewed is Tony White, Director of Outreach with The Fletcher Group, a nonprofit agency that provides technical assistance to expand the quality and capacity of recovery housing, with a focus on supporting rural communities. In his interview, Mr. White highlights barriers to addressing substance use disorders, including societal stigma and the need for communities to prioritize lived experiences and education in fostering understanding and support for recovery.

Champions of Deflection Video Series—Video Two is available at https://www.cossapresources.org/Media/Video/87ca11a3-4693-43c8-a9fd-f2a38dd52c4f.