Photo: dante downey (axis), charlee sharp (axis), quinn deffenbaugh (cortez fire protection district), and matt teague (axis)
Press Release
May 7, 2025
Denver, CO – On Saturday, May 3, the Montezuma County Community Intervention Program (CIP) was recognized at the Red Cross Rocky Mountain Heroes Soiree in Denver. This event celebrated individuals and programs that have demonstrated exceptional bravery, dedication, and service to their communities. The CIP team was nominated and honored to be recognized for its outstanding work in addressing urgent behavioral health needs. This innovative and community-built program has made a significant and lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families in Montezuma County.
“This nomination is a reflection of the extraordinary work and deep commitment that the CIP team demonstrates daily,” said Cortez Fire Protection District Chief Roy Wilkinson. “They represent the heart of what it means to serve. Together, we are building stronger, healthier communities, and I am honored to work alongside such dedicated individuals.”
The CIP provides timely and compassionate intervention for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. Since 2021, the CIP team has responded to 2,728 calls for service. It is dispatched by 911 and helps to address immediate needs and connect individuals with ongoing resources. The program ensures that help is accessible to those who need it most. The CIP program focuses on teamwork and caring for the whole person. It has become a trusted resource and a lifeline for many in the community.
Molly Rodriguez, Director of Crisis Services at Axis Health System, emphasized the importance of the community partnerships that drive the program’s success. “The Community Intervention Program highlights the power of collaboration,” she stated. “Through the combined efforts of our partners, administrative support from the Town of Mancos, and the expertise of the team members who provide direct care, we’ve built a solution that meets our community where they are. This recognition inspires us to continue providing compassionate support and accessible care.”
CIP team members Charlee Sharp, Dante Downey, Matt Teague from Axis Health System, and Quinn Deffenbaugh from the Cortez Fire Protection District represented the program at the Denver event. EMT Brant Kreun was unable to attend. The CIP team is deeply grateful for the nomination.
The CIP program is currently accepting donations through the Onward Foundation. Visit Onward or this link to donate: https://onwardfdn.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1792
For more information about the Community Intervention Program or to learn about the services offered by the Montezuma County Community Intervention Program, please contact emailus@axishealthsystem.org.
About Axis Health System:
Axis Health System is a Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and trusted name in providing quality healthcare across Archuleta, Dolores, La Plata, Montezuma, San Juan, Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, San Miguel, and Ouray counties in Colorado. Axis provides primary care, mental health, substance use, oral health, pharmacy, and crisis services.
Media contact: Haley Leonard Saunders, Public Information Officer, hleonard@axishealthsystem.org or 970.335.2207