Our journey is still evolving, but our history and our program design is rooted in the activism character of the South Linden neighborhood. Project Linden began as a grass roots body of concerned citizens living in the South Linden Community with little money and much optimism. During the summer of 1972, community leaders recognized the problems that were occurring in their neighborhood which related to the use of drugs. A planning committee was formed of concerned residents, community groups and local mental health board representatives who envisioned a treatment program that would provide relief, support and tools for individuals suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. As a result of their sustained and ongoing efforts, they approved a community proposal for action. Project Linden, Inc. was established as an outpatient drug and alcohol treatment and prevention agency and it continues to operate as a private non-profit 501 (C) (3) organization.

A community service organization, Project Linden is here to ensure that individuals and families with drug and alcohol addiction problems have the opportunity to turn their lives around and return to their neighborhoods as productive men, women, and community advocates. We are governed by a board of directors that represent a cross section of leaders from various walks of life in our community and includes former beneficiaries of organization services. Treatment is offered on a sliding fee scale and includes publicly funded outpatient treatment at no cost to clients who meet eligibility requirements.

The passed years have seen a dramatic increase in our prevention services to the community. We operate two treatment programs and seven separate prevention programs which provide services within the community, schools, churches and penal institutions. Our investment in prevention programs is a clear indication of our concern regarding our youth, family and community.

Now more than ever before in our history, community support and advocacy are critical to meet our operational bottom line. We have experienced funding cuts and will enter the year with threats of funding cuts up to 9%percent in our alcohol and drug funded programs. The potential impact to our budget will be severe. The nation and world are in the midst of economic uncertainty. Substance abuse and addiction disease are exacerbated in such times and the need for our services is as important as ever.

Nevertheless, we are optimistic about Project Linden's future and confident in the commitment of Franklin County residents to a healthy and viable community. Together, we are striving to meet the needs of our community.The mission of our agency continues to keep us focused on meeting the needs of our consumers while reaching out to educate the community at large.