Leadership at the Area Substance Abuse Council (ASAC), serving Linn, Benton, Jones, Jackson and Clinton counties, and the Substance Abuse Service Center (SASC), covering Dubuque and Delaware counties, have announced an agreement between the two agencies to align under the name of ASAC, effective July 1.
According to a news release, this move follows a nationwide-wide trend of bringing together successful organizations and services to strengthen and support a strong system of health care.
ASAC and SASC have been preparing for this move for several months and are well-suited for a smooth transition, according to the release.
ASAC and SASC share a mission to provide accessible professional health services including substance use and problem gambling prevention, treatment and recovery components. They also utilize the same treatment models and electronic health records system, follow the same rigorous certification processes including CARF-accreditation and interact with many of the same partner organizations.
“We’re looking forward to the opportunities this will provide our agency and our patients,” said ASAC Board President, Ben Rogers, in the release. “This is a very exciting partnership that should allow new funding opportunities, expanded treatment and prevention services in all seven counties, but also a chance for staff to learn from each other and for both organizations to share in the great work each has been doing up until now.”
SASC Board President, Steve Eastvedt said, “I am also excited by the alignment of SASC and ASAC. There are definite operational advantages through this alliance, which will enhance both organizations and, most importantly, improve the prevention, intervention, and treatment services available to our communities,” the release.
All offices will remain open for regular business hours without disruption throughout the transition and without change to office locations. New patients and projects that address the challenges of substance use, mental health and problem gambling are welcome. Please contact info@asac.us with ideas and opportunities.
