MILWAUKEE (April 24, 2024) — In a powerful move to address the ongoing
opioid crisis gripping Milwaukee, Serenity Inns proudly announces the
involvement of Milwaukee Bucks legend and former NBA All-Star Marques
Johnson in its ambitious capital campaign. Johnson’s commitment to the
cause marks a turning point in the organization’s relentless fight
against substance use disorder and overdose deaths that have devastated
the community.
Johnson will serve as an advocate and cabinet member for Serenity Inns’
$3 million capital campaign fundraising committee. Johnson’s decision to
champion Serenity Inns’ cause brings an added dimension of personal
conviction to the campaign. By continuing to successfully deal with his
own struggles with substance use disorder one day at a time, Johnson
deeply understands the role of support and community in the recovery
journey.
“Serenity Inns’ mission resonates with me on a profound level,” Johnson
expressed. “As someone who has walked the path of recovery, I know
firsthand the transformative impact of having access to supportive
resources and a compassionate community. It is a privilege to stand
alongside Serenity Inns and help empower more individuals in our city to
rebuild their lives and break free from the chains of addiction.”
Serenity Inns recently broke ground on a transformative $3 million
treatment facility in the heart of Milwaukee’s 53208 zip code. This
expansion will add 14 much-needed beds to its existing residential
treatment services, allowing the organization to serve an additional 56
men a year. The new facility reinforces Serenity Inns’ dedication to
providing comprehensive support and a path to recovery for men,
regardless of their resources.
“Seeing the concrete work begin on this project fills me with immense
pride and anticipation,” shared Kenneth Ginlack, CEO of Serenity Inns.
“We expect to complete construction by July or August, enabling us to
extend our reach and impact more lives. Our current 12-bed facility will
continue operating alongside the new building, while our sober living
‘alumni house’ accommodates 14 men who have successfully emerged from
our treatment program.”
The need for expanded treatment options has never been more urgent.
Serenity Inns receives an average of five calls per day from individuals
seeking help, while the county recently reported an estimate of
approximately 200 people in need of residential treatment services. This
situation underscores the critical importance of Serenity Inns’ capital
campaign and the necessity of increased support for those struggling
with substance abuse, particularly in under-resourced areas like
Milwaukee.
For 20 years, Serenity Inns has stood at the forefront of combating
substance use disorder and the devastating opioid epidemic in Milwaukee.
The organization’s efforts have provided a path to recovery for 690 men.
As Milwaukee is faced with an overwhelming demand for treatment
services, the expansion of Serenity Inns’ facilities offers a glimmer of
hope to those desperately seeking a path to recovery. With the support
of community leaders like Marques Johnson and the progress of its
capital campaign, Serenity Inns is poised to make an even greater impact
in the fight against substance use disorder.
