Substance abuse recovery center to open

(12/20) The Frederick County Health Department is opening up a satellite office in Emmitsburg for recovery support for people with substance abuse disorders. There will be two programs meeting in the basement of the Community Center. This is a second site for both programs.

The first program called, CORE Recovery Center, is for individuals aged 18 years and older. This program provides a meeting place for individuals that are recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. It gives them the opportunity to support one another while they are on their road to recovery. At the center, there will be group activities such as Peer-led recovery discussion groups, recovery and wellness planning groups, and sober activities open to participation by all.

No appointments are needed. The Center will be open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. For more information you can call 301-600-3289 or email CORE@frederickcountymd.gov.

The second program called, On The Mark Adolescent Clubhouse, is for Frederick County youth between the ages of 12 – 17 years. These individuals have either experienced or are at risk for substance and/or nicotine abuse.

The youth will receive homework assistance and participate in arts and crafts and group discussions. They will also receive lessons on life skills. Socializing with other youth their age will take place as well. They will have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities such as laser tag and bowling. Also, they will attend college and sporting events and much more. The Clubhouse will be open on Mondays from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information contact Jeffrey Thompson at 301-600-4804.

Recovery Support Coordinator for Frederick County Health Department, Santita Prather, said that these programs are trying to meet people where they are. She said that everyone has a different road to recovery and that it can be helpful to have someone who has lived the experience of addiction and recovery involved. Volunteers have an opportunity to participate in the 30-CCAR Recovery Coach Academy to help train them to work with individuals in recovery. Currently, the health department is recruiting for recovery coaches.

Prather says that these programs do not replace treatment. Frederick County Health Department plans eventually to bring treatment to Emmitsburg as well.

Both programs will begin on Monday, January 12, 2015.