Recovery Journey

The Alcohol & Addictions Resource Center (AARC) is a community-based, local not-for-profit agency that has served the Michiana community for over 53 years, with roots dating back to 1962 when the St. Joseph County Committee on Alcoholism was formed to enlist public support for an alcoholism information center. Founded to provide objective and independent clinical addictions assessment services, AARC does not offer direct alcohol or other drug treatment but instead focuses on unbiased professional guidance to individuals and families facing substance use problems, ensuring access to treatment regardless of age, sex, race, religion, creed, or socio-economic status. Through its Center for Assessment, Referral and Education (CARE), AARC delivers formal addictions assessments by licensed clinical counselors, including Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) services qualified for Department of Transportation (DOT) needs, along with prevention and education programs tailored for youth, parents, and the community—from small classes to large groups—covering topics like substance abuse prevention during pregnancy and integration into school settings. Complementing these efforts, the Michiana Employee Assistance Program (MEAP), celebrating its 50th anniversary, collaborates with local businesses to support employees and families through assessments, short-term counseling, and referrals for personal or work-related concerns such as alcoholism, substance misuse, marital conflicts, and legal issues, maintaining independence from treatment providers to ensure objectivity and serving as a client advocate. AARC's mission is to provide mental health and addictions services that help people reach their potential and live healthy lives, focusing on the areas most affected by addiction—home, work, and school—with a vision of a community where everyone can always get the help they deserve, resulting in tangible, real-world benefits through participation in local coalitions, task forces, and a commitment to assisting alcoholics, drug addicts, and their families.