By Staff
CASSOPOLIS – Recovery from addictions is a lifelong process; few people succeed without support. The cost to the community, when lives are lost to addiction, is staggering.
In Cass County is it estimated that one out of four families are directly impacted by alcohol or drug addiction. That is why 14 individuals formed a private, non-profit corporation called the Genesis Project.
Their mission is to support recovery from addictions through the creation of transitional housing.
Genesis House, as envisioned by board members, will have six to 12 beds plus a community living space, a communal kitchen and other living necessities.
Genesis House aims to transform the lives of individuals through three primary goals:
Supporting those in addiction recovery through the 12-step model.
Insuring a non-enabling environment of growth for independent living.
Engaging the community as key stakeholders.
One of the goals board members have set for themselves is to provide Genesis House with certified addictions staff 24 hours a day.
It is expected that residents will abide by house rules, including random drug testing.
Use of alcohol or drugs will result in immediate expulsion.
The Genesis Project is designed to benefit individuals and families from throughout Cass County.
Residence will be provided at no charge to men who are serious about recovery.
Once they become employed, they'll be asked to contribute 30 percent of their take-home pay as rent.
Residents will support each other in recovery and remove themselves from negative past environments.
They will prepare a weekly neighborhood dinner, so neighbors can become acquainted with the residents, have the opportunity to encourage them in recovery and feel free to discuss any concerns related to the house.
The Executive Board consists of President Greg Price, Vice President Margaret Shultz, Secretary Ruth Andrews and Treasurer Wendy Elsey.
Other members include attorney Dale Blunier, Cathy Brown, Kevin Daugherty, Art Fenrick, Marilyn Mahon, the Rev. Tyrone Pace, Rita Reed, Chris Siebenmark, the Rev. Richard Swanson and Mary Tompi.
For more information about Genesis House, or to become involved, please contact Greg Price at (269) 445-6136, ext. 4.