Quarterly Damien Update

Effective June 7, 2021

The Marion County mask mandate ended on June 7. Therefore, Damien Center has lifted the mask requirements for all clients and guests who are fully vaccinated. For those who are not fully vaccinated, Damien Center requests that you continue to wear face masks in the building. The center asks all clients, staff, and volunteers to continue to maintain distancing and remain home if there are any signs of illness.

New Program Updates

Community Thursdays

Community Thursdays officially launched on June 3rd and will continue the first and third Thursday of every month from 3–5p. Damien Center welcomes community members to come in on Community Thursdays to get a hot lunch, produce, and to connect with other community partners. Each community Thursday will host a variety of resources and community partners for all to connect with.

Almost4Minds Providing Transportation to Clients

The Damien Center partners with Almost4Minds to help clients with transportation to and from the center. For more information on getting connected with Almost4Minds, clients can reach out to their Care Coordinator or Care Team.

New Program Update: Harm Reduction

What is Harm Reduction? Harm reduction includes a range of health, social services, and safe practices that apply to substance use.

Harm reduction is an approach that aims to minimize the risks associated with behaviors people are unable or unwilling to stop engaging in. A common example of harm reduction in everyday life is the use of a seatbelt while riding or driving in a car. People who use drugs can use harm reduction practices to decrease the risks drugs pose to their lives and their bodies. Something as simple as an isopropyl alcohol pad can save a life by preventing infections associated with injection drug use. Click here to learn more about Harm Reduction.

New Program Update: Youth Programming

Damien Center invites all youth between the ages of 18 – 24 to attend Youth Action Night each month. Youth Action Night will feature free haircuts, food, and other resources. Youth do not need to sign up to attend Youth Action Night. Sign-up is required for haircuts and can be made through a Youth Housing team member. For any questions regarding Youth Action Night or other youth programming, please reach out to Jaime Reynolds. Check out the Damien Center website for future Youth Action Night dates.

Client Activities

Client Advisory Board

Client Advisory Board will be returning to in-person meetings starting on June 24, 2021. The meetings will be held in the board room atthe Damien Center from 3–4p. Client Advisory Board is a space for clients to come and use their voice for the happenings in Damien. Clients who attend will receive a Kroger gift card for attending. Clients who wish to participate in Client Advisory Board can reach out to Annie Nelson.

Client Appreciation Picnic

August 25, 2021

Damien Center’s annual Client Appreciation picnic will be held on August 25th from 1–3p at Garfield Park. The picnic is an event for clients and their families. There will be food, music, and games (with prizes) for all to participate in.

Clients who are interested in joining in on the fun can sign up with their Care Coordinator or contact Annie Nelson.