In a recent meeting of the City of Washington Planning & Zoning Commission, a proposal to establish a community center aimed at supporting individuals in recovery from substance use disorder took center stage. The initiative, presented by Tonya Hankins, seeks to transform a basement space adjacent to an existing outpatient program into a welcoming environment for fellowship and support.

Hankins, who oversees recovery housing in Washington, emphasized the importance of community in the recovery process. Currently, her organization operates several recovery houses and an outpatient program that provides essential services to participants. The proposed community center would offer a coffee house atmosphere and a dining hall for meetings, fostering connections among individuals in recovery.

The envisioned space aims to address the growing need for a communal area where participants can gather, share meals, and hold 12-step meetings. Hankins noted that the outpatient program has outgrown its current facilities, which only allow for limited gatherings. The new center would not only serve the program's participants but also extend its doors to the broader recovery community.

Commissioners engaged with Hankins, seeking clarity on the center's accessibility and future plans. While the initial focus will be on serving program participants, there is potential for the space to open up to the public as it grows. The center's location, with access primarily from the back, has been designed to accommodate the needs of those who may not drive.

As the commission deliberates on the proposal, the community watches closely, hopeful that this initiative will enhance support systems for individuals on their recovery journeys. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, reflecting the city's dedication to addressing the challenges of substance use and recovery.