02-13-12 Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS JOINT COUNCIL WORK SESSION—FEBRUARY 13, 2012 3 Mayor Grant asked what type of social service programs would refer people to this program. Ms. Bauer explained that referrals come from Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services, or the County. Councilmember Holden stated that it was her understanding that some of the residents had been incarcerated. Mr. Frazier stated that about 20 percent of their residents come from the Department of Corrections. He further stated that in the three years he has worked at the Minneapolis Rehabilitation Center there have been no incidents with residents. He added that they really control the residents' time and keep them busy. He also explained that they are very careful about placing the proper person in the proper facility. The Rehabilitation Center is not a medical facility so individuals requiring that kind of care would be referred out to other facilities. He explained that what this program is trying to do is get the best outcome for the men so they do a thorough background check and look for criminal history. Ms. Bauer pointed out that this program is very unique as the men are well aware of the expectations, including the required work therapy, when they enter the program. The men work eight hour days, five days a week, and when they aren't doing that they're on programs that are self contained within the center. They are on restrictions for the first 30 days with no cell phone and no car allowed. Councilmember Tamble asked if the men all work within the facility. Mr. Bauer responded that they may work at any of the Salvation Army's nine retail facilities or they may drive Salvation Army delivery trucks. This program does not cost the government and there is no charge to the participants because the income from the Salvation Army stores funds this program. Councilmember Holden asked if a majority of the residents have had substance abuse problems. Mr. Bauer responded affirmatively and explained that this program is a Christian rehabilitation center that includes the entire 12 step program and helps the men rebuild their lives. In order to graduate from the program,the person must have a job, a sober place to live, and a home church. Councilmember Tamble questioned the success rate of this program. Mr. Frazier responded that half of the men who start do complete the program and 20 percent of the men who graduate will be sober in a year, which is the same percentage as Fairview and Hazelden. Councilmember Tamble asked where the men go when they complete this program. Mr. Frazier stated that some men stay in the facility. Others may move onto halfway houses. Councilmember Werner asked if there is staff on site 24 hours a day.