LIBERTY RECOVERY COMMUNITY

LIBERTY RECOVERY CENTER. In June, 2020 the foundation had been poured and an elevator shaft had been erected. These were the first signs of the $3.5 million project at 2216 White St. which would provide 24 one-room bedroom apartments and a recovery and training center inside the former Liberty Bank building at 2216 White Street.

Michelle Mihalakis, executive director of the nonprofit Manasseh House/Operation Empower which would oversee the complex, explained that while the new operation would not provide clinical treatment, the enter would provide "wrap-around services" through its residential facility and recovery/training center. "We want to make recovery a life-style."

The project received $3 million a state and local support, but Mihalakis hoped to raise an addition $1 million to finance the renovation and cover operation expenses. Hopes were that the first residents could move in by February. Applicants could earn to more than 30% of the area median income--an estimated $1,300 per month. Paid staff and trained residents would oversee the Recovery Center and work with area professionals.

In 2018 Iowa had 167 substance-abuse treatment centers of which only 70% offered social skills development services. 51% had mentoring and peer support while 35% offered employment counseling and training. This was according to the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (1)

In 2021 the Community lost a $104,500 Community Development Block Grant from the City of Dubuque. The project, which had previously been approved for the CDBG grant in April was denied the money when it was found that only residents of Manasseh House, Salvia Apartments and the Liberty Recovery Community, all managed by Operation Empower, could access the center when it opens. The money had been intended for the installation of a new roof, replacing heating and air conditioning units, and pouring new concrete in front of the buildings entrance. Despite the setback, Michelle Mihalakis, executive director of Operation Empower, said that the project would move forward. Operation Empower was still attempting to raise $700,000 to cover operation and staffing costs. Plans were still set for the facility to be opened by mid-October, 2021. (2)

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Source:

1. Goldstein, Bennet, "Center Aims to Transform Lives Through Lifestyle," Telegraph Herald, June 15, 2020, p. 1A

2. Kruse, John, "Substance Abuse Center Loses Funding," Telegraph Herald, August 4, 2021, p. 2A