Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
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.
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.
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Source:
Goldstein, Bennet, "Center Aims to Transform Lives Through Lifestyle," Telegraph Herald, June 15, 2020, p. 1A