Over two decades ago, the men's program at Serenity House consisted of little more than a four-bed cottage serving men seeking help from the ravages of substance abuse and addiction. Since that time, Serenity House has experienced tremendous growth and capacity expansion, with the largest residential program being the Men's Extended Residential Care (MERC) program.

Recognizing that addiction encompasses many facets of an individual's life, the MERC program coordinates many services to meet client needs. The MERC program individually tailors a client's treatment by completing a thorough diagnostic assessment and screening for problem areas. This could include physical and mental health issues, employment, financial concerns, and family problems. This assessment is carried out with compassion and concern for the well being of the client, with the goal being to help the individual build a foundation that will provide for long-term recovery from substance abuse and chemical dependence.

Based on this personal history, the MERC program attempts to meet as many needs as possible through a comprehensive network of over 50 agencies within the community. An individualized treatment plan is developed which could include areas such as improving their overall support network, stress or anger management, effective parenting skills, and relapse prevention. Each client is provided with information about HIV/AIDS, STDs and other communicable diseases as well as an initial medical screening through the Serenity House Medical Director. Other medical and community-based services are reviewed, including the opportunity to meet with a local area psychiatrist who works closely with Serenity House clients. Another option for clients in the MERC program might be to work on their family relationships within our Male Family Reunification Initiative (MFRI) program.

Each client meets weekly with their primary counselor to discuss their treatment plan and measure their progress. The client also receives an educational component to his treatment through weekly educational group sessions which cover a wide variety of topics. Along with employment and daily treatment activities, the men at the MERC program attend support group meetings. These meetings help them to build relationships that will last long after the formalized treatment process at Serenity House ends. All of these services are delivered in an environment that fosters personal responsibility, individual growth, improved self esteem, and a solid sobriety.

As a counselor of the MERC program, I have witnessed first hand the damage of chemical dependency. I've also been privileged to witness the miracle of recovery. One of these miracles is the story of a client who recently completed the MERC program. Mike entered treatment broken down and in emotional pain. He could no longer see his children as a result of his addiction and before entering treatment, attempted suicide. He was severely depressed, had little hope, and was desperate for help. Mike came into the MERC program, and secured a full-time job which gave him a sense of self-worth. He was introduced to the MFRI program and began the task of repairing the relationship with his children. He was able to manage his daily stress by addressing his depression through services provided by the Dupage County Health Department. As a result of his hard work and commitment to sobriety he was able to see his children for the first time in over a year. Mike's outlook on life improved dramatically and he no longer had the desire to end his life. Mike was respected and admired by his peers, and he formed strong and meaningful friendships while in treatment. As a result of addressing the problems areas of his life, Mike was able to reclaim the role of father, friend, and productive member of society.

This is just one case of hundreds where men and women who have been affected by addiction have transformed their lives as a result of simply asking for help. Addiction destroys the lives of the individual, the family, and negatively impacts the community. With courage and commitment, treatment helps to repair what has been broken. This is the mission of the MERC program.