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BY DAWN MARKS –
“Oakcrest is a fulfillment of a dream,” said Lt. Colonel Helen Starrett as she opened a stirring dedication service at the site of the first Adult Rehabilitation Center women’s residence in the Los Angeles area.
Located in Arcadia, the house accommodates 13 women in recovery from substance dependencies and other social handicaps for a minimum six-month stay. Lt. Colonel Daniel Starrett, ARC commander, called it a “momentous day as we continue to expand ARC services to women.”
Poignant personal experiences were shared by Arcadia City Council Member Gail Marshall, whose son is a graduate of the Pasadena ARC; and Captain Michelle Pierce of the Canoga Park ARC, a former women’s ARC beneficiary.
Commissioner Doreen Edwards presented the dedicatory address and expressed hope “that women who come here can go out with joy and hope in life. Life with a capital ‘L’ as God intended it to be.”
Commissioner David Edwards, territorial commander, gave the dedicatory prayer. An ensemble from the Pasadena Tabernacle band performed and there was a special musical performance by Majors Ed and Joyce Loomis (Pasadena Corps officers), accompanied by Major Donna Jackson, ARC personnel/property secretary. Other program participants were Mr. James Brooks of the Pasadena ARC advisory council and Captain Man-Hee Chang, Pasadena ARC administrator. Captain Stephanie Chang was presented a certificate of congratulations from the City of Pasadena.
The Oakcrest residence and women’s program will be under the administration of the Pasadena ARC and will offer the same program components, including 12 Step programs, work therapy, counseling and spiritual guidance.
