BROWARD COUNTY, FL - The Broward Addiction Recovery Center (BARC) held a
reflective 50th anniversary celebration at its flagship location in Fort
Lauderdale on September 28, 2023. It was standing room only as Broward County
Commissioners, local officials, funders, service providers, clients and staff gathered to mark this
once-in-a-lifetime milestone. BARC offers a comprehensive range of services for persons over the age of 18 who are affected by substance use and/or co-occurring disorders.
"Thank you to BARC and all your employees who have provided
a tremendous service to our community for the past 50 years. Every day you help
people through their life challenges and every day you make a difference," said
Broward Mayor Lamar P. Fisher.
Touching testimonials were given by current and former
clients, including Dr. Rosalind Osgood, who attributes much of her professional
success to BARC, including her determination to become a state senator for
Broward County.
Program highlights included awards given to the families of
BARC's pioneers, trailblazers and innovators. BARC staff with more than 20
years of service were also recognized and the family of former Substance Abuse
Advisory Board President Rocky Rodriguez received the Advocate Award on
his behalf, followed by a formal dedication of BARC's Community Room in his
honor.
"It takes a special type of person to work at BARC and
to interact with people who often have nowhere else to turn. I've seen
firsthand how these devoted Human Services team members have not only changed
lives but they have saved lives," said County Administrator Monica Cepero.
Initially growing from a single detox unit in 1973, BARC currently
serves more than 5,000 people annually in one or more of its five treatment
units, including Admissions, Detoxification, Residential and Outpatient Services.
Plans for BARC's future include:
- Utilizing
Omnicell machines to dispense medication at its detox and residential
facilities
- Acquiring
25 additional detoxification beds
- Creating
a nursing curriculum to educate patients on medications, immunizations,
obtaining community services and more
- Engaging in outreach programs to educate the community on the Opioid epidemic and effectiveness of Narcan
"Whether it's the first time a client is seeking treatment or the ninth time, BARC's team is committed to treating all individuals with respect and dignity to reduce shame and guilt that someone may face. They are someone's brother, sister, mother or friend and for that reason, we will welcome them home," said Division Director Gerard John.
About Broward Addiction Recovery Center (BARC)
Broward Addiction Recovery Center (BARC) offers a
comprehensive range of services for Broward County residents over the age of 18
who are affected by substance abuse and/or co-occurring disorders. Admission is
voluntary. BARC accepts individuals involved with the Criminal Justice system,
Department of Children and Families and ChildNet. To make a referral or an
appointment, call 954-357-4880.
September 29, 2023
Media
Contact: Keith Bostick, Deputy Director
Broward County Human Services Department
954-357-6051
kbostick@broward.org