Maura Taylor, Executive Director of Self Help, Inc., spoke at the Rotary Club of Los Alamos meeting Tuesday at Cottonwood on the Greens about the work of this local non-profit founded in 1969. Beginning as a collaboration led by Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church and others in the faith community, Self Help’s mission today, as 50 years ago, is to assist residents of northern New Mexico who struggle with basic needs, providing them with a bridge to self-sufficiency. Self Help, Inc. serves Los Alamos, Santa Fe, Rio Arriba, and Taos counties. In addition to helping those in financial need, such as payments for a utility bill or car repair, Self Help offers services to help disabled persons, victims of domestic violence, those with citizenship issues, and those with behavioral and mental health concerns.  Last year Self Help directly served 400 families, provided 1700 consultations, and made 2,100 referrals. Self Help is now planning to open an office in Española, expand its board and volunteer opportunities, and re-energize its programs. In honor of its 50th anniversary, Self Help is preparing a celebration for the community in September. Photo by Linda Hull”