GIBSON RECOVERY CENTER PLANS OPEN HOUSE FRIDAY AFTERNOON

The public is invited to an open house at Gibson Recovery Center, 1112 Linden, on Friday from 1-3 p.m.

Hugh Stone, executive director, says the opportunity will allow visitors to tour the treatment facility, meet the staff, and ask questions about substance abuse and its treatment and prevention.

"Alcohol and other drug abuse costs America $200 billion a year, exclusive of the hidden costs of drug crime and lost productivity," said Stone. "For every dollar we spend on treatment, society saves $12 in costs of accidents, crime, lost productivity, and welfare."

This is one of a number of open houses being planned statewide. These activities kick off a citizens advocate campaign to increase public awareness and legislative understanding and awareness about the benefits of substance abuse treatment, said Stone.

The Missouri Advisory Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse has joined forces with the Missouri Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Programs to lead Missouri's portion of the "Treatment Works" campaign.

For more information, persons can contact the Gibson Recovery Center at 334-5513.