LSM Execs Study Local Human Services Challenges

Lifestyles of Maryland CEO Sandy Washington and other experts discuss local efforts to address housing challenges. Also pictured are Amy Ford, moderator (St. Mary’s County Library); Michael Bellis (St. Mary’s County Housing Authority); Craig Cohen (CRG Companies); and Jimmy Hayden (RE/MAX One).

The Leadership Southern Maryland Executive Program Class of 2026 convened in January to study the region’s critical housing and human services challenges. They heard from industry leaders about the needs and concerns of children, low-income families, homeless residents, residents dealing with mental and behavioral health issues and domestic violence, and the limited stock of affordable and workforce housing in Southern Maryland.

Patty Stine, Pure Play Every Day executive director, introduced the executives to the Adverse Childhood Experiences assessment. ACE assessments raise awareness of how children’s experiences of domestic violence, parental behavioral health issues, and economic insecurity can impact their ability to thrive in adulthood.

Participants spoke with human services, behavioral health, and housing specialists about challenges Southern Marylanders face in accessing the many community resources available to support them, securing affordable housing, and having reliable transportation.

Amy Lorenzini, associate judge of the Circuit Court of St. Mary’s County, provided a judicial education brief and described special initiatives of the court, such as the Family Law Court Help Clinic, which provides free legal assistance with family law matters and the Family Recovery Court Program that offers assistance to parents with substance abuse or mental health issues.

Leadership Southern Maryland’s flagship Executive Program is an interactive, nine-month, tuition-based “behind-the-scenes” experience designed to enhance the collaborative abilities of the region’s top senior professionals. LSM is now accepting applications for the Executive Program Class of 2027.