Western U.P. Health Department is pleased to announce the grand opening of The Connection Center at the Salvation Army Building in Hancock. The Connection Center is a warm welcoming place for people with substance use disorder and their families to socialize, learn and grow. The public is invited to join us in celebrating our new space at an open house on Friday, June 7 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 408 Ravine Street in Hancock.
This is a family-friendly event - snacks and beverages will be provided and there will be activities, games, and door prizes. Local musician, Bob Hiltunen will be on hand to provide entertainment.
An informational and inspirational presentation will be held at 6 p.m. featuring Dr. Kirk Klemme, Kathy Ptaszek, and Peer Recovery Coaches from Healthy Connections. Speakers will share their professional and personal experiences with addiction and will be open to questions from the audience.
This event and the creation of the Connection Center are made possible with funding from the State Opioid Response (SOR) through Northcare Network and a partnership with the Salvation Army. “We are excited and grateful for this opportunity,” said Kate Beer, Health Officer. “As a public health department, we are all well aware of the devastation substance use disorder causes for individuals and families. Alcohol and drug addiction are complex problems that require a comprehensive and collaborative approach and we are ready to play a more active role in addressing those issues in our communities.”
For questions regarding the open house, or to learn more about Healthy Connections programs and services, please contact Program Director Gail Ploe at 482-7382 ext. 103 or by email at gploe@wuphd.org.