A new transitional sober living house has opened its doors in Dubuque, providing essential support for men in recovery. Launched by local nonprofit Operation Empower, this initiative aims to offer a safe environment that fosters accountability and personal growth. The refurbished historic building on Jackson Street can accommodate up to six men, with the first resident already taking up residence.
Shayne Englund, a Dubuque resident, has become the inaugural resident of the sober living house. He emphasizes the importance of a stable living environment as a foundation for recovery. “It means the ability to be in a safe environment,” Englund stated. This includes access to basic necessities like clean showers, heating during winter, and the ability to cook meals. Englund believes these elements are crucial for success in recovery, allowing individuals to focus on their personal growth rather than resorting to substances in times of stress.
Before moving into the transitional housing program, Englund spent a year at the nearby Liberty Recovery & Re-Entry Opportunity Center, where he worked on his recovery from methamphetamine use. He views his new living situation as an opportunity to enhance his journey. “This will hold me accountable for my own actions and the ability to be in a social environment,” he explained, noting the importance of peer support.
Supportive Community and Leadership
The founder and executive director of Operation Empower, Michelle Mihalakis, sees the sober living house as a transformative project. She believes that sharing experiences among peers significantly impacts residents’ recovery journeys. “Shayne’s a good one, because he loves people,” Mihalakis remarked, highlighting Englund’s potential as a peer leader in the house.
Residents will adhere to rules similar to those at the Liberty center, including curfews and regular breathalyzer and urine tests. This structure provides the necessary framework for individuals to rebuild their lives. Notably, the new transitional home is not income-restricted, allowing anyone in need of support to participate, regardless of financial status. “No matter how much money you make, if you struggle with addiction, you need a place like Liberty,” Mihalakis stated.
Addressing a Critical Need
Operation Empower has identified a significant demand for transitional housing in Dubuque, particularly for those recovering from addiction. Kimberly Terry, the organization’s housing director, pointed out that addiction affects individuals across all socioeconomic classes. “Housing is a really big piece. Nobody can stay sober very long or stay clean very long if they’re on the streets or in a shelter,” Terry emphasized.
The new sober living house aims to expedite the process of integrating individuals into recovery programs. Its open-door policy allows for quicker admissions, accommodating individuals transitioning from various facilities, including prisons and treatment centers. This flexibility is crucial in addressing the immediate needs of those seeking recovery.
Terry anticipates a higher success rate with the new initiative, building on the established 90% success rate of the Liberty center. “The thing that makes this all work is not just the housing side of things and giving people a safe place to live; it’s all the accountability and the support programming that we offer at Liberty,” she explained.
Englund encapsulated the essence of the program, stating, “The opportunity is what an individual makes it. For those that want to make the change and use the program as a staple, the opportunity is very, very powerful.” His journey reflects the potential for recovery when provided with the right support and environment. As Operation Empower continues to expand its mission, the hope is that more individuals will find a safe haven to rebuild their lives and embrace a sober future.
