Boothbay Harbor Police Officer Larry Brown did not have to look far to find this year’s honoree for the annual YMCA New Year’s Day Penguin Plunge.

“What the Penguin Plunge likes to do is recognize someone who has had an impact in the community. We’re dedicating this year’s Penguin Plunge to the Chief (Bob Hasch), for all he has done to help people with mental health and substance abuse issues in the community,” Brown said at the YMCA on a recent afternoon.

“This is a major problem across the country and Boothbay has not been spared that. The chief has grabbed hold of this issue and is offering help to people who need it. We can’t arrest our way out of this problem and he has recognized that.”

Brown arranged for the traditional photo shoot and BRCTV promotional video at the YMCA pool. But Hasch was not willing to be the only honoree. Joining Brown and Hasch poolside were some of the other key players in local efforts to help those struggling with addiction and mental health issues: Holly Stover and Sue Burge, Boothbay Region Community Resources Council, Anni Pat McKenney, Lincoln Health, and Karen-Ann Hagar and Andy Hamblett of CLC and Boothbay Region YMCAs.

“The chief really wanted to be sure that others were recognized as well. It’s not just been the chief; it’s been a community effort,” Brown said.

Hasch said he was grateful to all those in the community who have joined him in this work.

“I really want to thank all these folks. The combination of Boothbay Region Community Resources Council, the YMCA, LincolnHealth, and folks in the recovery community have all been a tremendous help to us over the years,” Hasch said.

He said he also hoped this event would serve as a reminder to those struggling that there are resources available to them. “We especially want people to know if they need help they can come to us and we will help them.”

Hasch, who is no stranger to a New Year’s Day plunge in the frigid waters of Linekin Bay, said he was delighted to support this fundraiser for the YMCA’s second grade swim safety program.

“This is a wonderful cause for all the kids who will learn to swim. Living along the coast, this is a vital skill. The YMCA is such a big help to us with all the issues we are dealing with and this program is another important one for the community,” Hasch said.

Penguin Plunge 2017 will take place at the Murray Hill boat launch in East Boothbay on Sunday, Jan. 1 at 11 a.m. For more information or to sign up, visit the YMCA front desk.