(Chelsea Update would like to thank Bob Milbrodt for the information in this story.)
Last Monday, Chelsea Kiwanis Club members heard from Tegan Johnson and Dixie Flavin from Dawn Farm. Dawn Farm is one of two treatment programs in Washtenaw County for those suffering from addiction to substances like alcohol and drugs. It is an actual farm on 65 acres with animals and therapists on site.
Dawn Farm offers a comprehensive program designed for each person. It may include a detoxification stay at a separate location, a stay on the farm for 90 days, and help to get back into society. The follow-up to staying at the farm can include help with a job and transitional housing for up to 2 years to offer continued structure.
Dawn Farm works to remove barriers between addicts and the community. Staff work to build community partnerships to offer jobs to those in treatment. Restaurants in town, for example, can allow someone to get back on their feet after being out of the labor force for a time by offering employment.
Many past clients volunteer to come back to work with addicts to support their recovery. They can relate and counsel – especially to new clients.
Dawn Farm receives funding from the state, from the courts, and from donations. Usually the only reason someone is unable to use Dawn Farm’s services is because of a medical issue, as it is not a hospital.
About half the clients suffer from alcohol addiction, about a third from opiate addiction, and the rest from a combination of drugs.
Kiwanis presented an annual donation to this worthy organization.
Monday, club members will hear from Lon Cooke and Stewart Elliot from the Right Home Company. Beginning in 2017, the company designs Classic Arts & Crafts, Prairie-style, and Bungalow house plans. The ready to assemble house kits are right sized and energy efficient.
Chelsea Kiwanis meets each Monday at 6:15 p.m. in the St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital cafeteria, and the speakers begin at about 6:45 p.m.
Everyone is invited to the club’s meetings to enjoy our speakers and learn about Kiwanis.
Go to www.kiwanisclubofchelsea.org for more information.
