Recovery Month event to help people battling addiction

To celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in September, the Renz Addiction Counseling Center in Elgin will provide free substance abuse assessments from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the agency, Two American Way, Elgin.

According to the "2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: National Findings," nearly 21 million Americans needed but did not receive treatment for alcohol or drug use in 2005, and almost 77 percent of adults classified with substance dependence or abuse were employed. The survey concluded, however, that after one year of treatment, people reported a significant reduction in their alcohol and drug use, increases in employment and income, and decreases in homelessness."

"Providing treatment for people with substance abuse disorders is directly related to improvements in their health and safety, as well as a reduction in healthcare costs," said executive director Jerry Skogmo.

"By participating in Recovery Month, you are supporting those already in recovery and encouraging others to seek treatment," he said. "Treatment today is more cost efficient and works toward getting an individual back on track and contributing to our community."

Studies have shown that treatment is cost effective showing a benefit to cost ratio of 7:1. Renz Center strives to make treatment affordable and accessible. By utilizing insurance, Medicaid and/or a sliding fee scale, many people are able to afford treatment that may otherwise be unattainable.

"Anyone seeking treatment can receive it at Renz," Skogmo said. "No one is turned away."

Renz Center provides a continuum of care dedicated to the prevention, intervention and treatment of addictive behaviors and disorders often associated with addition. Services range from prevention programs for youth in the schools to outpatient treatment programs for adolescents and adults. Offices are located in Elgin, St. Charles, and Streamwood. Renz services also include treatment for problem and compulsive gambling.

It is a non-profit organization funded in part by the federal government, local United Ways, Illinois Department of Human Services, Hanover Township and St. Charles 708 boards and other local community organizations. To find out more, call (847) 742-3545 or visit www.renzcenter.com.