Bolivar Implements SAFE Program Registry Benefiting Community
During the 2025 Spring Fling, City of Bolivar Mayor Julian McTizic proudly announced the Special Assistance for Emergencies (SAFE) Program Registry will now be utilized by emergency services personnel in the City of Bolivar. He shared the news on Saturday, April 26, 2025, along with an official proclamation of April as Autism Awareness month in Bolivar.
The SAFE Program Registry comes to Bolivar through a partnership with Eagles Nest Family Services, a licensed mental health and substance abuse agency, and the Hardeman County Emergency Communications District. Emergency personnel are able to use the SAFE Program Registry as a tool to alert them when going into emergency situations where they may be interacting with people with autism or other communications barriers.
“We are excited to be working with the City of Bolivar to help others understand about developmental disorders as well as behavioral health. That all ties into mental health. [We hope] to bring awareness and to let people know we are here to serve,” said Dr. Gwen Gavin-Macklin, founder and director of Eagles Nest Family Services. “That is one thing I like about the City of Bolivar and Hardeman County, they always bring awareness to the community about various things.”
Mayor McTizic has been vocal in the past about his son, Jules, who has autism. He is a strong advocate for autism awareness and participates in efforts for the cause. In October 2024, Mayor McTizic participated in and raised funds for Dancing with the STARs 2024, which benefited The STAR Center. During that time, he shared some thoughts about parenting Jules.
“I don’t look at his diagnosis as something that makes him less than. Many people see autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as something people have to fix or overcome to shine. Being blessed to parent Jules and watch him learn, grow, and thrive has taught me that he’s not plagued with a disability, but challenged with a different ability,” said Mayor McTizic.
If you are the parent, guardian, or caregiver of someone with autism or other communications barriers, including a mental health disorder, you may complete a registration form. The SAFE Program Registry form is available in person at the Bolivar City Hall { 211 North Washington Street, Bolivar, 38008} and Bolivar Police Department { 211 West Jackson Street, Bolivar, 38008 }, and online on the City of Bolivar website.
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