42 Nashville Adult Rehabilitation Clients Continue Treatment in Memphis After Storms Destroy Nashville Facility

The severe weather that recently struck the Mid-South impacted the lives of many Tennesseans. But for 42 Adult Rehabilitation Clients (ARC) in Nashville, Tennessee, the weather was no match for their determination and dedication to completing the ARC’s work-therapy program.

Devastating floods left the Nashville ARC underwater, forcing clients and employees to abandon the facility. The Memphis ARC responded to the crisis by opening its doors to the Nashville clients and offering them an opportunity to continue their therapy at its facility. A few days after the flooding, 42 men made the trek to Memphis to finish the program.

“I was three weeks away from completing the program when this happened,” said Alan, a former Nashville client. “I didn’t know how I was going to deal with it. Thoughts of my old lifestyle - survival on the streets - came rushing back. I felt like giving up. After all, alcoholics and drug addicts don’t do well with quick change.”

The Nashville clients had two choices. They could continue their therapy in Memphis or pursue other opportunities independently.

“I prayed to have the strength to make the right decision,” Alan said. “I felt the peace of God in my heart, and I knew I needed to go to Memphis. The staff and clients at the Memphis ARC welcomed us with open arms and unconditional love. Everything fell back into place, and I picked up right where I left off. I graduated from the program on May 23rd, and I will continue to stay involved in the Memphis program.”

“The Nashville clients have shown a true commitment to the mission of our program,” said Major Rick McConniel, Administrator of ARC, Memphis. “They transitioned smoothly into our program, continuing in their progress, and many men have completed the program since making the move.”

The new Memphis Adult Rehabilitation Center

Photograph provided by Kelly L. Cox Photography