NEWS

Centre Working to Overhaul Data Collection System

Published July 24, 2024

As a result of the agency’s strategic planning session in 2023, Centre’s resident data collection and analysis methods will be overhauled to help us better understand the impacts Centre programming has on its residents and utilize the information to make improvements.

Centre has been generating reports on resident statistical information for 15 years, with little variation to the information we collect. As time has gone on, the utilization of our resident management system and the way we work with residents has evolved, so the time has come to advance our data efforts to collect and review additional data points. As we work toward closing a chapter on our current data collection methods and shifting to an updated, more in-depth version, let’s look at the similarities and differences between then and now.

In 2009, 552 residents were discharged from our transitional units, and in 2023 there were 1,139 transitional exits. Over that 15-year period, Centre increased its services to residents by over 100%. In comparing discharge rates between 2009 and 2023, they are quite similar with 73% being successful and 23% being unsuccessful. However, when comparing the reason for unsuccessful discharges, the program failure rate decreased by 10% between the 2009 and 2023 data. This decrease is the result of the evolution of our practices with handling violations of certain program rules and expectations.

In 2009, instances of a singular drug/alcohol use, lack of employment within the first two weeks of residency, being in the possession of a cell phone and having social media accounts, or not paying subsistence, were grounds for termination. Today, we find that a resident who relapses is more likely to succeed long-term if they are given an intervention, not a termination. We also find that residents who are struggling to obtain employment may need additional support from an Employment Placement Specialist or their Case Manager, or residents who aren’t paying subsistence need budgeting skills rather than an unsuccessful discharge. Our rules and practices surrounding cellular telephones, use of technology. and social media has also evolved. Residents can benefit from the use of these devices and platforms to connect with family, friends, and employers.

Centre still has a zero-tolerance stance on instances that impact the safety and security of our facility, staff, or residents, but our data shows that we are more frequently addressing instances of program non-compliance with in-house interventions as opposed to immediate program termination. Similarly, when reviewing instances of staff commending residents for positive behaviors, we have made significant strides in the last 15 years. In 2009, the documented positive-to-negative behaviors ratio was 1.2 to 1, meaning for every negative incident, we typically only had one positive to point out. In 2023, the positive-to-negative ratio was 4.7 to 1, which exceeds the evidence-based practices standard of 4 to 1, so staff should be commended for their utilization of positive reinforcement skills.

When comparing the 2009 data to 2023, many areas also trended similarly. For example, the average length of stay for a resident who successfully completed programming has consistently been around the 110-day timeframe, whereas someone who unsuccessfully discharges has remained around 69 days. While the frequency of breath alcohol concentration (BAC) tests remains statistically similar, we do see significantly fewer positive BAC tests. In 2009, there were 61,986 BAC tests completed with 64 positive (0.1%), and in 2023 there were 104,426 completed with 39 positive (0.04%). While there has been a significant decrease in alcohol use in the 15 years, instances of positive drug tests have remained essentially the same. In 2009, 6,606 total tests were conducted, 268 (4.06%) of which were positive, and in 2023, 12,278 tests were conducted with 537 (4.37%) being positive.

Based on the current plan, the goal is to have all new data collection practices finalized by the end of 2024, so they can go into effect in 2025. Once in place, we hope to look at data in a new light by comparing these numbers to resident risk areas and the services they received to better understand how aspects of Centre’s programming impacted an individual’s residency. We are looking forward to analyzing and utilizing this data in 2026 to further inform our programming, so stay tuned!

Brianna Way Guler
Compliance Director

Centre Joins Community Service Providers at LiveGRAND Event

Published July 24, 2024

On June 19, 2024, Centre participated in the LiveGRAND: Health and Wellness Expo event at Town Square in downtown Grand Forks hosted by Grand Forks Housing Authority. Program Directors Kelly Vigness and Leland Higginbotham set up a booth sharing Centre’s mission and services available to those struggling with mental health, substance abuse, and involvement in the criminal justice system.

LiveGRAND aimed to assist those with low, no, and fixed income households. Gift bags and meals were provided to those in attendance, and community organizations hosted booths with information about their organization and the services they provide. Many vendors handed out various items with company logos such as water bottles, pens, bags, chip clips, balls, candy, etc.

There were 56 total vendors in attendance, and  207 adults and 39 children were provided information on local support services. Vendors were chosen appropriately and represented a variety of services under a similar umbrella of services. LiveGRAND effectively portrayed a community approach to promote successful, positive outcomes for individuals served.

Ten residents in Centre’s Grand Forks treatment unit participated in the event. The consensus was that the LiveGRAND event was a positive experience. One resident commented that the event was “positive with a capital ‘P.’” This resident went on to say, “The stigma that so many of us have in relation to our mental health was magically and suddenly lifted once I registered. That the entire expo/fair was there for me!”

The Centre residents who participated said that LiveGRAND “without a doubt” supported their recovery.

Kelly Vigness
Program Director
Grand Forks

Grant Funding Boosts Williston Stabilization Center’s Offerings

Published July 24, 2024

Centre’s Stabilization Center in Williston stands as a testament to the power of collective action in addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals facing mental health challenges. Thanks to recent grant funding from the City of Williston and Williams County, the Stabilization Center has purchased a variety of items to aid in enriching lives and further nurturing holistic well-being among its residents.

By utilizing the grant funds to incorporate a variety of activities spanning physical health, emotional stability, life skills, and leisure, the Centre Inc. Stabilization Center is addressing the multifaceted needs of those we serve. Providing a balance between structured programs, such as financial and nutrition education, and enjoyable activities, like painting, crafting, board games and movie nights, helps to foster a sense of community and well-being. Adding cornhole, a puzzle board, musical instruments, games, and various activities into the Stabilization Center's offerings has been a wonderful way to promote relaxation, engagement, and social interaction among residents.

In addition to activities, the Stabilization Center will utilize the funds to purchase toiletry items and clothing for indigent residents, which will aid in addressing a fundamental aspect of human dignity – the need for adequate clothing and cleanliness.

And finally, the funds will also be used to create education spaces within the Stabilization Center, thus empowering each resident to better understand their own struggles and encouraging each individual to make positive, healthy steps toward healing.

Cynthia Long
Program Director
Williston

Centre Welcomes New Board Member Jordyn Koski, LCSW

Published July 24, 2024

This year, Centre said goodbye to longtime board member and former employee Judy Egge, who resigned after serving as a board member for five years following 34 years of employment with Centre. After almost 40 years of service to the agency, Judy’s dedication and contributions to Centre are immeasurable. “Judy was the ‘backbone’ of Centre; she wore a lot of hats and was a problem solver. She was the ‘go-to person,’ and she taught me a lot of what I know about the agency and this field to this day,” said Executive Director Josh Helmer.

With the vacancy, Jordyn Koski, LCSW, a longtime mental health professional and owner of It’s a Part of, Therapeutic Services, was selected to join Centre’s board in March.

Jordyn is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Dakota and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Minnesota with experience working in group home settings, inpatient hospitals, human service centers, and private practice, where she provides individual therapy, family therapy, and couples counseling.

In her personal time, Jordyn enjoys spending time with her family outside and going on adventures. She also loves her Cricut and is an avid Pinterest enthusiast.

Centre is proud to have Jordyn and her wealth of knowledge experience, and expertise contributing to Centre’s mission as a member of our Board of Directors.

Chris Althoff
HR Director

Employee Spotlight

Published July 24, 2024

Centre currently employs 176 individuals across facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, Mandan, and Williston. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration. Centre’s Wellness Committee has developed a new employee recognition program in which employees can be nominated for demonstrating a featured core value each month.

Centre’s core values are Integrity, Compassion, Empowerment, and Safety & Security. Below is a spotlight on February’s winner for Compassion, Liz Nesdahl, along with a list of the winners from January through June!

What does Compassion mean to you?

Compassion, to me, means stepping out of your own skin so that you can experience a situation from another person’s point of view. It’s setting your own interests and beliefs aside and replacing them with someone else’s, in order to get a better understanding of what they are experiencing. I believe that compassion combines empathy, kindness, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Compassion is about recognizing the humanity in people and responding to that humanity with care and support.

What advice would you give to embody Compassion?

Start by being compassionate towards yourself. Allow yourself to make mistakes, and then allow yourself to forgive yourself for those mistakes. Learn to be patient with yourself as you grow from your experiences. When someone has compassion, they wish for others to be free from suffering. If you can’t be compassionate towards yourself, then it will be really difficult to embody compassion in your work.

 What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job at Centre is getting the opportunity to see the growth in everyone I work with (both my clients and my coworkers). Whether it’s a client passing their UA for the first time, a coworker getting promoted, or someone finally getting their own apartment after being homeless for the past three years, all of these growths (no matter how small) are reminders of why I love working in this field. It also doesn’t hurt that this job has led me to gain some coworkers who have become my lifelong friends. 

Also recognized this year for demonstrating Centre’s core values:

 January - Integrity: Bailey Pifer - Mandan

March - Empowerment: Courtney Kniert, RN - Grand Forks

April - Safety & Security: Robin Neal - Fargo

May - Integrity: Melissa Arocho - Mandan

June - Compassion: Adetomi Adewole - Williston

New Stabilization Center Set to Open Monday

Published January 11, 2024 in the Williston Herald

Centre’s New 10-Bed Stabilization Center Opening in Williston

Published January 9, 2024

This month, the long-awaited Centre Stabilization Center is opening its doors to the citizens of Williston. The center, located at 309 Washington Avenue, highlights Centre’s unwavering commitment to investment in communities across North Dakota. The Stabilization Center, in partnership with Northwest Human Service Center, will offer support and compassion to those navigating the challenges of mental health crises.

Constructing the Center:

The construction phase of the Stabilization Center was a culmination of the collective efforts of Maintenance Supervisor Bryan Backer and stakeholders and collaborators within the Williston Community. The space was designed to ensure a safe and calm environment and haven for Williston area residents seeking services. This 10-bed facility will also include a Drop-In component, allowing individuals seeking immediate assistance a welcoming and safe environment.

Hiring and Training:

Central to the success of the Stabilization Center was the assembly of a passionate and skilled team dedicated to ensuring empowerment, compassion, integrity, safety, security, support, and education. Hired in mid-October, Cynthia Long, Program Director, began by building collaborative relationships, designing the program structure, and conducting interviews to build the team. December 4th marked the beginning of a comprehensive training program for core staff consisting of crisis management, team building, safety protocols, and program structure. The Stabilization Center team will work in collaboration with one another, and each role is indispensable.  Desiree Badger, RN, is responsible for ensuring each resident receives proper medical education and comprehensive care. Chyanne Huling, Food Services and Housekeeping Specialist, will care for the dietary needs of each resident and ensure facility cleanliness. The Residential Specialist team will provide 24/7 care to ensure safety and security during each resident’s stay in the center.

Open House:

In preparation for the center’s grand opening, an open house was held on December 28th. This event provided an opportunity for approximately 50 stakeholders and partners to witness firsthand the dedication and effort invested in creating the Stabilization Center. Charlotte Ferrell, Regional Director for Northwest Human Service Center, spoke about their partnership with Centre. Attendees were also invited to tour the facility and engage with the team. The open house served as a platform to foster community engagement and awareness, encouraging open discussions around mental health and the critical role the center aims to play in supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments.

As the countdown to the official opening of the Stabilization Center draws near, the anticipation and enthusiasm within the community continues to grow. This beacon of hope represents a significant milestone – a testament to Williston’s commitment to prioritizing mental health, advocating for support, and fostering a more empathic and understanding society.

Cynthia Long
Program Director
Williston

Wellness Programs: An Investment and Commitment to Well-Being

Published January 9, 2024

Wellness programs - What are they exactly? A wellness program aims to be a strategic initiative to improve the overall health and well-being of employees. Their design is to boost company culture, promote engagement and provide additional benefits to employees through education, resources, and potential for reduced healthcare costs by preventing or managing chronic conditions.

When most people think about a workplace wellness program, the first things that jump to mind are walking challenges, weight loss challenges and water tracking. While these are perfectly fine focuses to have when considering wellness, balancing a primary focus on just one wellness aspect like physical health can stunt the growth and engagement in these programs. Every employee will have different priorities for their health, which can stem from generational differences, personal health history or just being passionate about matters such as community projects or mental health.

The question comes to mind then, why are wellness programs even that important? Doctors are already promoting healthy lifestyles, why does the workplace need to promote the same message? A wellness program in the workplace offers an opportunity for companies to show their commitment to their employees’ health and well-being, plus promoting employee engagement and boosting the company culture to be as supportive as possible.

At Centre, we take pride in promoting our core values: Integrity, Compassion, Safety and Security and Empowerment; with these core values in mind, we have developed a Wellness Program with four Pillars of Wellness: Physical, Mental, Financial and Social/Community that will have monthly rotating themes that will hopefully provide a new resource for all our employees to learn more about how they can prioritize their well-being every day.

Each month we will share tips and strategies through our Wellness Weekly posts on our company Intranet. Every computer will automatically open to our Intranet when you open your browser, and we encourage all employees to take the time to read through these weekly posts to learn about what’s happening with the Wellness Program and what activities and engagement are available during that month. As always, we greatly value any feedback, especially for new programs such as our Wellness Program. You can find the feedback form linked in each Wellness Weekly post moving forward.

Ambrose Zavislak
HR Specialist

Centre’s 2023 Strategic Planning Session Sets Goals for Future

Published January 9, 2024

In June of 2023, over a two-day interactive strategic planning session, employees from Centre’s administration along with management, clinical, and direct care positions from all of Centre’s locations across the state took on the task of developing the agency’s Strategic Plan for the next three to five years.

To establish goals and direction, participants considered information from the following sources:

• Previous Strategic Plan/Progress Reports

• Summary of feedback from the 2023 Employee Survey

• Client/Program Statistics/Outcomes from 2022

• Summary of Client Survey results

• Reports/recommendations from the agency’s most recent Correction Program Checklist (CPC) reviews

The Strategic Planning Committee developed the following three goals:

• Programming: To improve and enhance the quality of services provided to Centre clients and maximize positive outcomes

• Personnel: To improve and enhance employee recruitment, onboarding, training, development, retention, and satisfaction

• Data, Statistics, & Outcomes: To consistently and effectively measure meaningful outputs/outcomes and utilize the information to improve and enhance Centre programs/programming

A chairperson was selected for each goal. The chairperson is responsible for organizing a committee of agency personnel. The committees are responsible for establishing each goal, the priorities, action steps, and a time frame for achieving the goal.

We are proud of the work that has been accomplished thus far and are looking forward to making progress towards accomplishing the above goals over the next few years.

Josh Helmer
Executive Director

Centre Raising Funds for All Programs This Giving Hearts Day

Published January 9, 2024

Centre will again be participating in Giving Hearts Day to raise funds to provide additional support to individuals accessing services through the agency. We are currently in the process of securing the $3,000 in match funds required to participate in the 24-hour giving event.

While the past years saw a focus on veteran programming, the closing of Project HART has paved the way for Centre to redirect its fundraising efforts toward facilitating successful outcomes for clients statewide in Fargo, Grand Forks, Mandan, and Williston by providing support not funded through current contracts to enhance our ability to address the multi-faceted barriers that can hinder a successful transition to the community.

Funds raised through Giving Hearts Day will play a crucial role in helping clients address barriers to employment, transportation, and ensuring a seamless transition for individuals seeking to reintegrate into the community.

One of the primary focuses of Centre's fundraising efforts is to address the employment gap faced by many clients participating in programming. By investing in employment readiness, Centre aims to empower its clients with the tools and resources necessary to secure meaningful employment. By doing so, Centre not only fosters economic independence but also facilitates the reintegration process by promoting a sense of purpose and stability.

Transportation can often be a significant hurdle for individuals striving to rebuild their lives. Centre recognizes that reliable transportation is a key factor in accessing employment, education, and community resources. Funds raised on Giving Hearts Day will also contribute to transportation solutions, such as subsidized public transit passes and access to ride-sharing services. By addressing this crucial aspect, we aim to remove a roadblock that can stand between our clients and successful community reintegration.

A successful transition involves more than just finding a job or securing reliable transportation, so funds will also be allocated to addressing any other barriers a client may be facing through coordination with Centre’s management and clinical teams.

The early giving period is now open, and those interested in supporting Centre for Giving Hearts Day can visit our giving page: https://app.givingheartsday.org/#/charity/496. Every donation contributes to Centre’s mission to provide rehabilitative services to individuals to achieve social reintegration.

Chris Althoff
HR Director

Employee Spotlight

Published January 9, 2024

Centre currently employs 172 individuals across facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, Mandan, and Williston. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I chose to work at Centre because I deeply believe that every single person, regardless of past, current, or future choices or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to embrace autonomy and experience compassion. The opportunity to serve the community of Williston in the Stabilization Center allows me to live out these beliefs each and every day. 

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is investing in people. The older I get I care less of what others think about me, but I care deeply about what people think of themselves. If I can help others to see their worth and value, my job is done. 

What advice or encouragement would you offer to someone considering a career in the field?

Be willing to show yourself the same kindness and compassion you show to others. Be gentle with yourself.

What are some of your interests or hobbies?

I am passionate about learning. In my free time I love to teach leadership classes, research, write, and watch documentaries. 

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I have a passion for people who have or are dealing with mental health issues. I’ve been a part of it personally with a few family members.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

It’s early in my position with Centre to answer this and we have not opened yet so I’ve not been able to work with residents yet. However, having been a nurse for 21 years - Well, I just love helping people.

What aspect of Centre’s mission resonates with you the most?

All of Centre’s core values are equally important, however safety and security are basic life needs.

What are some of your interests or hobbies?

I love music of all kinds except heavy metal. I also enjoy cruising. But the first most important part  I love doing is spending time with my 5-year-old granddaughter. Many memories have been made including an upcoming cruise!

HART Scheduled to Close After 15 Years of Serving Veterans

Published July 20, 2023

Disclaimer: This article, “HART Scheduled to Close After 15 Years of Serving Veterans” was funded in part by a grant from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. The opinions, findings, and conclusions stated herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Project HART, Centre’s Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program, will be closing on September 30, 2023, after more than 15 years of providing services to veterans experiencing homelessness. Through a grant agreement with the VA, Centre began operating HART in December 2007 after extensive renovations of its Fargo Male Residential Reentry Center.

At its peak, HART housed 48 veterans and typically had a waitlist of veterans hoping to enter the program. Over the course of several years as the community worked to address veteran homelessness, the need for a 48-bed program continually decreased. In May 2015, HART decreased to a 36-bed program, and then in October 2020, the program decreased to 30 beds.

Throughout its years, HART provided basic needs, individual case management, supportive employment services, and household items to veterans transitioning to permanent housing. Community support through donations of funds, furniture, and housewares, along with participation in Giving Hearts Day, drastically expanded the ability of the program to independently address many of the barriers veterans faced as they worked toward permanent housing. Veterans also had access to medical, mental health, treatment, and employment services through the Fargo VA and other community resources dependent upon their eligibility.

In February 2023, Centre submitted an application in response to a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to begin a new grant agreement that would begin October 1, 2023. The application was approved; however, after reviewing the program’s occupancy trends (typically at 25% capacity), along with the discontinuation of the maximum allowable per diem rate that was approved in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program was no longer deemed feasible after all avenues to reduce expenses of the program were exhausted. In April, Centre notified the Fargo VA and the National GPD Office of its intent to revoke its application to continue providing GPD services beyond the current contract year. A plan was immediately put into place to house veterans currently in the program and to determine a date in which HART would no longer accept referrals.

Even while maintaining the program at 30 beds, HART has typically remained at less than one-third its capacity for a majority of the past year. At the time of the writing of this article, HART is currently serving nine veterans.

Centre is proud of its role in drastically reducing the number of veterans experiencing homelessness in our community. Through 2022, HART assisted with 1,127 discharges to permanent housing, while adjusting to the changing needs of the veterans in need of services.

While the decision to close HART, which was a difficult decision to make, can be seen as a negative, the goal of HART was always to put itself out of business by eliminating the need for its services, and that point has come. We are grateful for the coordinated efforts put forth by the Fargo VA, numerous community partners, members of the community who supported the program, and the Centre employees who were dedicated to providing compassionate care to our veterans.

Josh Helmer
Executive Director

Centre is Expanding to Williston with the Opening of a New CRU

Published July 20, 2023

On February 28, 2023, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) released a solicitation requesting a provider for a 10-bed Crisis Residential Unit (CRU) located in Williston, ND. Executive Director Josh Helmer received approval from Centre’s Board of Directors to begin researching real estate opportunities, the local labor market, and additional information about the solicitation to determine whether Centre would submit a proposal.

Following Centre leadership’s research and location of a facility in Williston, Centre responded to the solicitation on April 26th, and on June 27th, the agency received notification from DHS of its intent to award the contract to Centre.

Centre is currently in the process of hiring a Program Director to oversee the operations of the unit, which will be followed by the hiring of a full-time Registered Nurse and then direct care and support staff.

The future CRU in Williston will be located downtown at the Metro Building — 309 Washington Ave. W., Suite 3 South. The Metro Building is also the location of Northwest Human Service Center (NWHSC), along with other community service providers. NWHSC will be partnering with Centre to deliver crisis services to individuals in need.

Alongside the hiring of CRU staff, renovation and furnishing projects will be completed to ensure the facility meets the needs of the future clients and complies with a ligature assessment to help ensure a safe environment for individuals accessing services. The target date for the CRU to be operational is January 1, 2024.

Since February 2022, Centre has operated a 10-bed CRU in partnership with Northeast Human Service Center (NEHSC) at its downtown Grand Forks facility located at 201 S. 4th St.

For more information about the Williston CRU, please contact Executive Director Josh Helmer at joshhe@centreinc.org or (701) 365.4162. For employment information, please contact HR Generalist Chris Althoff at chrisal@centreinc.org or (701) 365.4165.

Chris Althoff
HR Generalist

Mandan Employees Recognized with DOCR Lifesaving Award

Published July 20, 2023

On May 15, 2023, Case Manager Allison Goldade and Program Supervisor Alex Crabbe, responded to a resident experiencing a medical emergency, and as a result of their quick response to administer lifesaving measures, the resident survived.

For their actions that day, Allison and Alex were each presented the North Dakota DOCR Lifesaving Award by Transitional Facilities Contract Administrator Rick Hochhalter.

Centre employees receive annual training in the administration of first aid, CPR/AED, and Narcan so they are equipped with the skills necessary to respond to emergencies in Centre’s residential facilities.

Mission-driven Centre employees impact the lives of our residents on a daily basis, and this is an excellent example of our employees' dedication to the agency’s core values of compassion, safety, and security.

We are thankful for their quick response and that the resident is doing well.

Chris Althoff
HR Generalist

Commitment to PREA Continuously Reflected in Audit Results

Published July 20, 2023

Congress passed the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) in 2003. The purpose of the act was to “provide for the analysis of the incidence and effects of prison rape in federal, state, and local institutions and to provide information, resources, recommendations, and funding to protect individuals from prison rape.”

The National Prison Rape Elimination Commission was created and was given the responsibility of developing draft standards for the elimination of prison rape. Those standards were published in June 2009, and were turned over to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for review and passage as a final rule. That final rule became effective August 20, 2012.

The PREA Standards require that all Residential Reentry Centers receive official audits at least every three years to assess for PREA standard fidelity. One-third of each facility operated by an agency must be audited each year and must be in total compliance.

Audits are conducted using an instrument developed by the PREA Resource Center in conjunction with the DOJ. PREA audits are only conducted by Department of Justice trained and certified auditors.

Centre’s residential programs statewide continue to maintain 100% compliance with PREA standards. Centre’s Residential Reentry Centers located at 123 15th St. N., Fargo, ND, and 3501 Westrac Dr., Fargo, ND, received the most recent PREA audit, which was conducted May 8th through May 11th of this year. The PREA auditor reviewed documentation, physical plant design and operations, and interviewed numerous residential clients and staff. As echoed previously by numerous visiting corrections professionals, the DOJ Certified PREA Auditor was extremely impressed by our facilities, programs, and professional staff.

Centre’s residential program located at 100 6th Ave. SE, Mandan, ND, will receive our next PREA audit in June 2024. The program located at 201 S. 4th St. Grand Forks, ND, is due June 2025.

Centre personnel take pride in providing a safe environment for the clients who participate in our residential programming. Fostering a zero tolerance culture towards sexual abuse of any kind continues to be a top priority.

If you have questions regarding anything related to PREA and how Centre complies and/or is impacted, please contact Director of Operations Chris Shotley at chrissh@centreinc.org or (701) 365.4157, or consult the PREA Resource Center at www.prearesourcecenter.org. Past and present PREA Monitoring Reports can be found on the agency website at www.centreinc.org/PREA.

Chris Shotley
Director of Operations

Welcome to the Board!

Published July 20, 2023

Centre is proud to welcome Dr. Andrew J. (A.J.) Myer to Centre’s Board of Directors after he was elected to the Board this June.

Dr. Myer is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Criminal Justice at North Dakota State University. He is also a Research Fellow with the University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute. He has taught courses on corrections, evidence-based correctional programming, and statistical and research methodologies. His research interests include effective correctional interventions, evidence-based program evaluation, actuarial offender risk assessment practices, and macro-social research methods.

Dr. Myer has worked with numerous community and institutional correctional agencies across the United States, focusing on the evaluation of correctional programming and implementation of evidence-based practices. Most recently, Dr. Myer has been working with adult and juvenile treatment courts, community correctional agencies, and juvenile detention programs for violent offenders.

We are very fortunate to have Dr. Myer as a new member of our Board of Directors!

Employee Spotlight

Published July 20, 2023

Centre currently employs 161 individuals across facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Mandan. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I wanted to work with a company that felt like it was making a difference in their employees’ and clients’ lives.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I enjoy being a resource for people when they have questions and love learning new things so I can help people better.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Archaeologist — I actually went to college for Archaeology for a time.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I do a lot of crafting. My current favorites are knitting and resin art.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

Reading and video games

Centre Receives Otto Bremer Trust Grant for Client Clothing

Published February 1, 2023

The idea of writing a grant proposal for Centre’s Fargo Male Residential Reentry Center’s North Unit started during a course I was taking at North Dakota State University. The objective of the course was to write a grant throughout the course of the semester. I had remembered my supervisor, Program Manager Heather Flemmer, mentioning our clients’ need for clothing in a staff meeting and asking if we had any suggestions. Additionally, after working in this facility for a year, I had seen the need firsthand.

I collaborated with Program Director Natasha Conway, Executive Director Josh Helmer, and Controller Eric Langenfeld to compile the information needed for the proposal for the Otto Bremer Trust (OBT) basic needs grant. We received news in late July that our grant proposal was approved. The OBT awarded the North Unit with $4,973.00 for our clients’ basic need of clothing.

With the aid of the Otto Bremer Trust, the North Unit can now provide basic clothing for individuals. Clothing was ordered online from Amazon, Old Navy, Walmart, and Wholesale Sock Deals. It was delivered and placed in our staff breakroom. Heather Flemmer gathered various totes and shelves for the clothing. Additionally, Maintenance Specialist Earl Urich constructed clothing racks to hang larger items.

The clothing includes up to the following per client: four shirts, one pair of sweatpants, two pairs of shorts, one sweatshirt, five pairs of underwear, five pairs of socks, one pair of tennis shoes, and one pair of shower shoes.

The amount of clothing will be tailored to each client. Therefore, a client who only needs socks and underwear will only receive those items. The clothing will provide clients with enough to be able to change their clothes while they find employment. They will then be able to use their paycheck to purchase additional items.

We have tracked all finances and I will later be able to compose the final report to send to the OBT by July 2023. This is the initial start of this project, and we are all excited to see how it goes! Thank you for all the help of everyone involved!

Abby Smith
Residential Specialist I
Fargo

Clinical Staff Receive EPICS Training to Help Reduce Recidivism

Published February 1, 2023

In the fall of 2020, Centre, Inc. Case Managers, Care Coordinators, and Program Directors were trained in Effective Practices in Community Supervision (EPICS), a relatively new model developed by the University of Cincinnati.  

EPICS is a combination of Motivational Interviewing (MI) techniques and Core Correctional Practices (CCP).   Motivational Interviewing is a person-centered communication style intended to enhance people's intrinsic motivation to change.  Core Correctional Practices includes eight effective practices that are proven to facilitate behavior change. 

When Motivational Interviewing and Core Correctional Practices are used in programs that follow the Risk-Need-Responsivity model, evidence shows that recidivism is reduced.   The purpose of following the EPICS model is to ensure that staff effectively address residents' criminogenic needs, and each case management session is structured in a way that allows time for appropriate and beneficial cognitive behavioral, evidence-based interventions. 

At Centre, we adhere to the principles of effective intervention, and we believe that by following the EPICS model, we are teaching residents to identify their risk areas and understand the link between thought and behavior.  

Since our initial EPICS training, clinical staff have completed four follow-up training sessions each year to ensure fidelity to the model.  It is the goal in the coming years to ensure all Centre staff members are trained in Core Correctional Practices and Motivational Interviewing. We believe that consistency is key and by using this combination we are reinforcing that criminogenic needs not only need to be identified, but also discussed and addressed using effective intervention.

Heather Grandstrand
Program Director
Fargo

Project HART Participating in Giving Hearts Day

Published February 1, 2023

Project HART, Centre’s VA Grant and Per Diem Program in Fargo, which serves veterans experiencing homelessness, will be participating in Giving Hearts Day on Thursday, February 9, 2023.

This will be the seventh year the program has participated in the one-day giving event hosted by the Dakota Medical Foundation, Impact Institute, and Alex Stern Family Foundation. According to the Dakota Medical Foundation, since being founded in 2008, Giving Hearts Day has helped participating charities raise over $138 million.

Since increasing fundraising efforts to support the services offered to veterans, Project HART has raised more than $125,000 since 2016. Items purchased from donated funds include veteran birth certificates, identification cards, and bus tickets, a van to transport veterans, work clothing, and move-in baskets to help make the veterans’ transition to permanent housing a bit more smooth.

The ability to offer these services and support independently help speed up the process of veterans being able to overcome their barriers to housing compared to referring them to another community resource.

Project HART currently has the ability to serve up to 30 veterans in one of two housing models: Service-Intensive Transitional Housing and Low Demand Housing. Veterans receive on-site case management to assist them in accomplishing their housing goals. Last year, 84.62 percent of veterans who exited the program transitioned to permanent housing.

If you are interested in supporting Project HART in the effort to end veteran homeless in our community, you can visit the program’s Giving Hearts Day donation page at: app.givingheartsday. org/#/charity/496.

Chris Althoff
HR Generalist

Centre Included in Concordia’s Nonprofit Internship Program

Published February 1, 2023

In October 2022, Centre, Inc. applied for funding through the Concordia College Nonprofit Internship Program.  This program offers Concordia students a paid internship opportunity at a nonprofit organization serving women and children in our community.

In December 2022, Centre was awarded the funding to hire and pay a summer intern at our female facility. Programs like this are wonderful opportunities for students and agencies like ours.   Students who intern at Centre become acutely aware of the issues people face as they reintegrate back into their communities after serving time in prison.

Women returning from prison face a unique set of barriers, which include lack of services addressing various forms of trauma, such as abuse, neglect, sexual/physical violence, trafficking, poverty, family disintegration, and adverse childhood experiences.  As a result, many women suffer from untreated mental health issues and substance abuse disorders. Frequently, women returning to their communities have little to no money, lack of education, lack of work experience, and children in the foster care system.

Centre interns quickly learn about wrap-around case management and the community partners available to help individuals navigate a system full of barriers. Interns learn a variety of skills intended to help identify risks, needs, and responsivity factors. They learn the importance of goal development and empowering women to reach their goals. Students will learn evidence-based communication strategies and interventions that focus on reducing recidivism.   

Historically, many of our interns have opted for employment with Centre after they have completed their internship. For Centre, it is incredibly beneficial to retain a well-trained, skilled intern.  

Centre will be participating in the Nonprofit Internship Expo on Thursday, February 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Knutson Campus Center on Concordia’s campus.

We appreciate the opportunity Concordia College has given their students and community nonprofit agencies such as ours.  

Heather Grandstrand
Program Director
Fargo

Employee Spotlight

Published February 1, 2023

Centre currently employs 155 individuals across facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Mandan. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

We caught up with our nursing team at our Grand Forks location to learn a little bit more about them.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I felt this place was the best fit for me. The people are friendly and like to joke around; I appreciate a good sense of humor and being able to laugh during the day. Also, I’ve had family members go through programs such as this and they really helped them.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

Seeing people in the community we have helped who are doing well.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I used to be brave enough to ride my horses backwards bareback with only a halter and lead rope to steer them around on the farm.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I show horses professionally with my parents and sister and have done so for 40 years. We show Appaloosas in North Dakota and Minnesota, and may go back and show at the World Championships in Fort Worth in October.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I worked at Centre in Grand Forks as a Residential Specialist over a decade ago, so coming here as a nurse felt like coming home.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I really enjoy being able to connect with and care for people who are in a place in their life where they need a little extra. There’s nothing more rewarding to me than being able to see someone achieve their goals and live as a healthier version of themselves.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a Marine Biologist—Then I learned I’d be taking water samples and not swimming with dolphins. Talk about crushed dreams.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I love reading, riding my Peloton, spending time with my kids, and am currently renovating an old house.

Centre Expands FTR and CC Services to Include Peer Support in Fargo

Published July 6, 2022

In February 2018, the Free Through Recovery (FTR) program started in North Dakota. FTR is a collaborative effort between the Department of Human Services and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (DOCR) to enhance community support services in North Dakota. 

In February 2021, the ND Behavioral Health Division launched the Community Connect program, which is very similar to FTR, however, participants do not need to be under the umbrella of the DOCR to receive services. 

In an effort to reduce recidivism, Care Coordinators and Peer Support Specialists with Free Through Recovery and Community Connect offer person-centered, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented care to target participants' goals, needs, risks, and barriers. Eligible participants are often struggling with mental health and/or a substance use disorder that impacts other areas of their lives, such as employment, family, medical, community support, financial and housing.

Care Coordinators and Peer Support Specialists have different roles, but they both play a vital role in a participant’s success. Care Coordinators collaborate with their client to build an individualized care plan that addresses their client's risk areas. They make referrals to community agencies, provide support, ensure their clients are active in pro-social activities, help problem solve, and utilize appropriate interventions when there are concerns.

Peer Support Specialists utilize their firsthand, lived experiences with mental health, addiction, or legal issues to offer support and advocate for participants who have the desire to make significant changes in their lives. 

Centre has been a providing agency since the onset of FTR in 2018. Currently, Centre has two Care Coordinators and one Peer Support Specialist in Fargo, along with Care Coordinators in both Grand Forks and Mandan.

Centre’s Care Coordinators are trained in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Core Correctional Practices (CCP), Effective Practices in Community Supervision (EPICS), and various cognitive behavioral interventions. Care Coordinators are expected to follow the principles of effective intervention and focus on risks, needs, and responsivity.

Care Coordinator Melissa Strubbe has been with Centre for nearly eight years. She began as a Residential Specialist and in 2021 was promoted to her current position. She has an incredible ability to build rapport with her clients, she is knowledgeable in community agencies, and she has built a collaborative relationship with referral sources. She is currently working toward a degree in social work.

Care Coordinator Ashley Klemen has been with Centre for over four years; she, too, started as a Residential Specialist and was promoted to her current position in December 2021. Ashley graduated from MSUM in 2017 with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice.   She has utilized her education and her work experience in a way that promotes destigmatization of mental health and addiction.  Ashley’s favorite part of her position is the relationships she builds with those on her caseload.  She understands that a good professional relationship can empower and motivate her clients to make progress toward their goals. 

Peer Support Specialist Kathryn O’Keefe has been with Centre since June 2021; she was promoted to her current position in May 2022.  Although Kathryn is new to peer support, she has a lengthy background in crisis intervention.   Kathryn has an internal motivation to inspire others and guide them toward success.  Building a supportive connection to people is one of her greatest strengths.

For information on how to partner with Centre for Care Coordinator or Peer Support services in Fargo, contact Program Director Heather Grandstrand at (701) 365.4171 or heathergr@centreinc.org. For services in Grand Forks, contact Liz Nesdahl at (701)335.7895 or lizne@centreinc.org, and for Mandan contact Allison Goldade at (701) 663.0951 or allisongo@centreinc.org.

Heather Grandstrand
Program Director
Fargo

Centre Residential Units - 2021 in Review

Published July 6, 2022

In 2021, Centre’s residential units housed a total of 1,432 residents, which was a six percent increase when compared to the previous year. Of that number, 1,078 individuals exited residency in 2021, and 71 percent of residents discharged successfully while 29 percent were unsuccessful. Many factors play into an unsuccessful client discharge, but over half of these were due to residents choosing to leave on their own terms, while the other unsuccessful discharges were a mix of program failures, new charges, or arrests for old warrants.

Every eight to ten weeks, Centre opens a resident survey to be completed electronically. Because the average resident’s length of stay in 2021 was 84 days, this process allows us to capture opinions from clients who are in all stages of residency: those who have just arrived, those who have been in residency for several weeks, and individuals who are preparing for release. In 2021, a total of 398 clients completed Centre’s voluntary client survey. Based on these surveys, it was determined that 90 percent of residents believe their case manager is compassionate and understanding, 93 percent of residents agreed that residential staff are helpful with their questions and concerns, 91 percent of residents involved in treatment at Centre reported they gained a better understanding of their drug and alcohol use through Centre’s treatment groups, and 92 percent of these same clients agreed their Licensed Addiction Counselor is compassionate and supportive.

While nearly all the information gathered from the client surveys was positive, the lowest level of satisfaction pertained to Centre meals. Although 79 percent of clients still reported overall satisfaction with the food provided at Centre, applicable food services managers have reviewed the open-ended portion of the survey and have since made changes to their menus. Since then, the overall approval rating in this category has already increased six percent.

When compared to previous years, the rate of positive drug and alcohol tests have seen decreases. In 2021, 11,114 urine analysis tests were completed and only four percent of those were positive for illegal substances, whereas in 2022, five percent of total tests were positive. Also in 2021, a total of 71,078 breathalyzer tests were conducted and only .04 percent of those were positive compared to the previous year where .07 percent of breathalyzer tests conducted were positive. We are proud of our residents for working hard to make positive changes and maintain sobriety, and we appreciate our staff who hold the residents accountable and work with them in times of relapse.

To promote positive reinforcement for our residents, Centre has continuously had a goal of outlining instances of positive resident behavior four times as often as we detail negative resident behaviors.  During 2021, a total of 24,535 Positive Behavior Reports were written, while 6,747 disciplinary reports of varying infraction categories were issued. As a positive to negative ratio, this converts to 3.6 to 1. While this is close to the desired ratio of 4 to 1 for recognized positive behaviors to documented negative behaviors, it doesn’t quite meet the goal and will be something that we continue to work on in the coming months.

Brianna Way Guler
Compliance Director

Centre Mandan Volunteers to Help Keep Streets Clean

Published July 6, 2022

It’s that time of year again, when the snow has melted and you can see the grass again on the ground, but not everything looks how it was left last fall before the white snow covered the ground. Now there are plastic bags stuck in trees or empty cigarette packs on the ground. This is where volunteers are needed to help clean up communities to make them more enjoyable for everyone living there.

On Sunday, May 15th, Centre Mandan employees volunteered for an event organized by the City of Mandan Community Beautification Committee to collect trash from ditches along major roadways. This was the ninth annual Mandan Litter Clean-Up Day. It was initially scheduled around Earth Day, however, due to the weather forecast of a very rainy, cold, and windy day on top of existing wet and snowy ditches, organizers made the decision to cancel the event and offered volunteers an alternative to clean up routes throughout the city. Volunteers spent a couple hours picking up multiple bags of trash — even finding a one dollar bill stuck in the weeds! This is the third year Centre Mandan employees have participated in this event.

Centre Mandan is also currently involved in the Adopt-a-Street Program and is responsible for the litter pick up of 6th Avenue Southeast on a volunteer basis two times per year or as needed. Centre Mandan has been involved with this program for several years.

On Tuesday, May 31st, Residential Specialist Matt Gonzales and three Centre resident volunteers picked up trash on both sides of the street. After their hard work was over, they were treated to Dairy Queen dilly bars as a thank you for giving back to the community.

Jenessa Reinisch
BOP Facility Director
Mandan

Tobacco Treatment Specialists Now Available in Grand Forks

Published July 6, 2022

Centre’s Grand Forks location, which partners with Northeast Human Service Center, is becoming a tobacco-free campus. On May 9th through May 12th, Centre employees Meghan Charon, Residential Specialist I, Lance Flaten, Residential Specialist I, and Kristine Johnson, Registered Nurse, completed Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) training in Fargo. The Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center sponsored the TTS training.

The training covered common means of tobacco usage, primarily cigarettes and vaping products. Statistics are showing a much lower rate of cigarette smoking amongst tobacco users. Vaping is becoming far more popular, especially among younger populations. Research illustrates that youth as early as grade school begin experimenting with tobacco usage—most predominantly vaping products.

The TTS training emphasized the short-term and long-term effects of tobacco usage and dependence. Dangers include increase in asthma, emphysema, and cancer. It not only discussed the impact of first-hand and second-hand smoke inhalation, but in addition, training participants learned that tobacco fibers remain in tobacco users’ clothes, cars, and furniture which leads to third-hand smoke health risks to non-smoking individuals.

Studies are proving that 60 percent of individuals recovering from substance use disorders are more likely to achieve long-term sobriety if they abstain from tobacco use at onset of initial substance use disorder treatment.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in the form of nicotine gum, lozenges, and patches will be available to residents upon request at no cost. NRT is based on individual, client-centered goals pertaining to tobacco usage.

Tobacco Treatment Specialists at Centre will screen residents upon intake for current and historical tobacco usage and provide tobacco education to residents. They will then inform residents how NRT can assist them and guide residents through their individual goals and support a tobacco-free environment and lifestyle.

Kelly Anttila
Program Director
Grand Forks

Employee Spotlight

Published July 6, 2022

Centre currently employs 163 individuals across facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Mandan. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

We caught up with a couple of our employees to learn a little bit more about them.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

Working at Centre sounded interesting. I’ve previously found that work where I am directly helping people, utilizing advocacy skills, or applying problem-solving skills have been the most rewarding to me as a person.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

I think that helping people identify the barriers they are experiencing and developing ways to break them down constructively is the most rewarding aspect of working at Centre, and I’m excited that is also a part of my role as a peer support specialist. I want to encourage people to develop problem-solving and advocacy skills that they can take with them wherever they go, and working as a peer support allows me to do so.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A veterinarian—Then I took medical terminology as a college course in high school and decided I had better things to do with my time than memorize word roots and muscular groupings.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I wanted to help people.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

It is the most rewarding to provide people with an avenue to get better and push them in the right direction.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to be a professional baseball player for the Minnesota Twins.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy fixing cars and watching movies. My favorite movie and holiday is Halloween.

Mile in My Shoes Partners with Centre to Empower Residents

Published September 14, 2021

On August 9, 2021, Centre began a new partnership with Mile in My Shoes. Mile in My Shoes is a nonprofit that originated in the Twin Cities. It aims to bring community members from diverse backgrounds together through running. They build bonds, boost wellness, and spark social action by bringing the power of running to people experiencing homelessness and other barriers.

After completing an orientation period and committing to running two times per week for twelve weeks, committed residents will be able to acquire a pair of running shoes after four runs, a t-shirt after ten runs , a GPS running watch and alumni shirt after 20 runs, a new pair of shoes and a Mile in My Shoes buff after 30 runs, and a Mile in My Shoes hoodie after 50 runs.

Residents will also receive education about physical health, nutrition, and entry into several local road races.

The Fargo Mile in My Shoes team consists of  six core team volunteers and thirteen run mentor volunteers.  Having another source for support for these residents and a healthy activity is so needed for residents’ successful transition into the community.  Seeing the smiles and sense of  achievement on the residents’ faces speaks volumes of how they are truly enjoying this new partnership at Centre. We currently have 12 clients participating in the Mile in My Shoes running program!

In the past four weeks, ten clients ran four or more times and have been able to keep the shoes provided by Beyond Running. We continue to be thankful for our partnership and can't wait for our clients to achieve the next milestone – Ten runs for a t-shirt!

Natasha Conway
Program Director
Fargo

ND DOCR Recognizes Centre Employees with Life Saving Awards

Published September 14, 2021

On September 1, 2021, four Centre employees from Centre’s Fargo Female Facility were recognized by the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (ND DOCR). In recognition of rendering aid to another person during an imminent life threatening situation, Rick Hochhalter, ND DOCR Transitional Facilities Contract Administer, presented (pictured above from left to right) Lindsey Emerson, Program Manager, Lesley Gaviglio, Residential Specialist III,  Sandra Vega, Case Manager, and Marissa Davis, Residential Specialist II, with the ND DOCR’s Life Saving Award.

During the commendation ceremony, Centre’s administration pointed out that all personnel should be proud as the entire team’s proactive approach is the reason these emergency situations rarely occur, specifically citing the significance of building rapport with clients and prioritizing constant attention to safety and security.

Chris Shotley
Director of Operations

Centre Implements RSIII Pilot Program to Improve Training

Published September 14, 2021

In February 2021, Centre’s Training Committee reviewed annual staff satisfaction surveys and identified the need to reassess our current Initial Training Program for residential staff. Through a series of Administration and Training Committee meetings, the idea for designated trainer positions, with the title of Residential Specialist III (RSIII), within each residential unit was developed.

By April, a job description for this position was created outlining that the position would have the same day-to-day responsibilities as our current residential staff, but when new employees are hired for the unit, an assigned RSIII would oversee the initial 80 hours of training for an incoming Residential Specialist, creating a one-on-one, catered training experience. The job description also outlined that the RSIIIs would play a role in Centre’s Strategic Plan by serving on the agency’s Training Committee.

The Training Committee’s primary goal is to improve training agencywide by reviewing contract, policy, and accreditation requirements to revamp training plans, while still providing effective training.

In May, the RSIII position was opened agencywide and interviews were held in June. All employees that applied for this position were strong candidates with countless skillsets, and the hiring committee was grateful for the interest staff displayed in this position. Ultimately, ten employees were selected agencywide – Sydney Arntzen, Nermin Calukovic, Maggie Doyle, Adrienne Chambers, Lesley Gaviglio, Matt Hendrickson, Taytum Jones, Zac Lehmann, Mackenzie Leroux, and Jonah Smith-Eggers.

In July, a Training Committee meeting was held where all RSIIIs were in attendance. At this meeting, we reviewed training expectations, best practices for onboarding, and began assessing and revamping the initial training packet for incoming Residential Specialist staff. The current focus for the Training Committee is to implement a new initial training regimen in order to promote effective and consistent initial training agencywide, with the future goals involving a review and assessment of Centre’s annual training program in order to improve ongoing training overall.

Being that this is a pilot program, we are excited to see how this position develops and are looking forward to positive impacts it will have on our programs.

Brianna Way Guler
Quality Control Officer

Centre’s Grand Forks Facility Begins New Crisis Residential Unit

Published September 14, 2021

Centre’s Grand Forks facility, located downtown on South 4th Street, is embarking on a new endeavor with the introduction of the Northeast Human Service Center (NEHSC) Crisis Services Center.

The center, formerly known as the Severe Mental Illness (SMI) Unit, will serve individuals in acute and critical mental health crises. During business hours, individuals in crisis will complete an integrated assessment at NEHSC, and after hours and on weekends, NEHSC crisis staff will come to Centre to complete the integrated assessment. Following the assessment, an individual may enter Centre residency for a short-term placement.

Facility updates to accommodate the Crisis Services Center staff and clientele are complete. The remodel consisted of the addition of a waiting room and two offices for NEHSC staff. Due to a contract requirement of a one to five staff to client ratio, the Grand Forks location will also be increasing its Residential Specialist staffing pattern.

The center has not been launched to the community yet, but we anticipate accepting walk-in individuals in crisis situations within the next few months. Centre staff are compassionate toward the individuals in crisis, believe crisis services are much needed in the Grand Forks community, and are being very supportive while transitioning to a new program. We look forward to the opportunity to fill this need and will continue to adapt to the needs of the community as the program develops.

Kelly Anttila
Program Director
Grand Forks

New Employee Spotlight

Published September 14, 2021

Centre currently employs 160 individuals across four facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Mandan. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

We caught up with a couple of our newest employees to learn a little bit more about them.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I chose to work at Centre because I believe in the mission and core values. I also believe in the rehabilitation process and wanted to be a part of that for clients, and I heard the team here is doing great things. My goal in the rehabilitation field is to be a part of the solution and not the problem (small part of a big team with this goal).

Do you have any hidden talents?

Grilling and smoking anything on my Traeger grill/smoker you can eat (work in progress), making anything with a motor faster, snowboarding, and singing.

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy spending time at the lake, snowmobiling most of the winter, traveling, being a new dad, sailing, and fishing.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I chose to join the team at Centre because after having the opportunity to work in the field of corrections and community addiction services, I found my niche in corrections.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

What I feel is most rewarding about my career is seeing growth in clients. The opportunity to be a part of teaching and modeling behaviors - being a team member with the clients I feel promotes growth in many different ways.

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Interesting enough, I find myself reflecting back to the ‘70s (ouch!) - I wanted to be a counselor. I found the junior high counselor made an impact on my life. 

Renovation Project Completed at Grand Forks Facility

Published January 19, 2021

In December of 2019, Centre purchased the three-story, 23,000 square foot Grand Forks facility located downtown at 201 South 4th Street. In March of 2020, Centre began a nine-part renovation project that included renovating the 54-bed Residential Re-Entry/Crisis/Transition Center.

New security cameras were installed throughout the facility. The camera system consists of almost fifty different views including both interior and exterior frequently occupied common areas. The increased number of cameras and features available strengthens the safety and security for the residents, staff, and overall facility. This upgrade improves the program’s ability to maintain fidelity to industry standards.

A new door monitoring system was put in place for exterior and interior entrances. Staff in all three units now have access to unlock both the front and back entrances depending on which intercom is activated. Staff can communicate with everyone attempting to enter the building through the two-way speaker system. In addition, the interior lobby doors that lead into the units are set to lock from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. every night. The new door monitoring system serves as an extra precautionary measure to monitor who is allowed into the facility. It also ensures that our facility adheres to safety and security best practices.

The Residential Re-Entry and Chemical Dependency units were the primary focus of the interior renovations. Fluorescent lightening was replaced with LED lighting. The LED lighting is not only more comfortable and natural, but it also helps illuminate areas for better monitoring. Other items completed during the renovation project included: carpeting was replaced with a natural, darken wooden patterned plank flooring in the common areas in both units. New carpet was installed in the staff offices and resident sleeping rooms. The showers and restrooms were painted, tiled, and received all new fixtures to include shower, toilet, countertops and sinks. The kitchen was completely remodeled with tile and stainless-steel countertops. A natural-colored paint brightened the rooms and common areas. Stairwells were painted and new flooring was installed. A new elevator was also installed.

The approximately nine-month construction project was a trying time for residents and staff at Centre throughout the process. However, the benefits outweigh the trials faced during the extensive renovation project.

Ultimately, all updates of the renovation project freshened the overall appearance and aesthetic appeal of the previously outdated and worn facility. The implementation of new security cameras, door monitoring system, and addition of LED lighting improve Centre staff’s abilities to ensure the utmost safety and security for the residents and the facility.

If you have any questions about this renovation project or interested in a tour, please contact me at (701) 203-4727.

Kelly Anttila
Program Director
Grand Forks

Navigating the Challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Published January 19, 2021

This past year presented all with many new challenges. Each new challenge afforded opportunities to come together and let our core values drive our decisions and aid us with implementing effective measures. The constant dedication and compassion our employees display every day is admirable and is the reason for our constantly evolving plan’s success.

Early March ‘20 presented us with many uncertainties. We developed a plan which focused on implementing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s best practices. We routinely communicated our efforts to our clients, personnel, and referral sources. We stayed apprised of the North Dakota Department of Health’s (DOH) guidance and completed the DOH’s “Workplace Assessment for COVID-19” for all locations.

Early on, our proactive tactics included minimizing incoming referrals to our residential programs, temporarily discontinuing and/or minimizing resident community access, off-site resident quarantine, stopping on-site unnecessary campus visits, and, of course, constant sanitizing and utilization of personal protective equipment.

Staffing patterns were assessed to ensure adequate coverage was possible in the event a department experienced an infection outbreak. Coordinating our efforts with local and state healthcare officials was and remains an instrumental piece. Biweekly client and personnel testing for COVID-19 was implemented and continues.

January ’21 brought the vaccine to North Dakota and our locations statewide are in the process of scheduling their vaccinations. Many at the Fargo and Grand Forks locations have already received their first dose.

On behalf of the agency, I would like to thank our clients, referral source agents, and board members for the support and teamwork provided.

I would like to specially thank the agency’s direct care personnel. On numerous occasions, we saw our personnel volunteer to travel and work at other locations to maintain shift coverage and client support when and where it was needed. Our direct care personnel are to all be commended. Their dedication for duty and willingness to put our clients’ wellbeing at the forefront daily is the reason our agency was and is successful.

Because our mission is client-focused, the following statistics specific to our residential program participants should be highlighted. These numbers reflect the total number of residents who tested positive for COVID-19 and the total number of those positive cases who accessed healthcare due to contracting COVID-19.

Centre COVID-19 Statistics (as of January 13, 2021):

Fargo Male Facility

Total Positive - 62

Accessed Healthcare - 1

Fargo Female Facility

Total Positive - 8

Accessed Healthcare - 0

Grand Forks Facility

Total Positive - 23

Accessed Healthcare - 1

Mandan Facility

Total Positive - 14

Accessed Healthcare - 1

Statewide Totals

Total Positive - 107

Accessed Healthcare - 3

As of January 13, 2021, there have been zero client  hospitalizations due to the COVID-19.

Chris Shotley
Director of Operations

Staying Connected During the Pandemic

Published January 19, 2021

2020  was an unprecedented year for challenges and proved to be a true test of our resiliency. Additionally, 2020 presented unique challenges for those with substance use disorders (SUDs) and in recovery. Working in a transitional housing facility brought about its own obstacles to include finding  creative ways to keep our clients safe and healthy. In addition, we continued  serving our clients to help them meet their goals of social reintegration. Here at Centre, we are not only making it work, we have created a new sense of normal and adaptability. Group sizes are small to allow for social distancing and we are skillful in having phone and email conversations with our clients.

Social distancing can create isolation, which can leave many, feeling sad and lonely. Social isolation can lead to relapse. Statistics published in August of 2020, according to addictioncenter.com, reported that from March through May of 2020, opioid overdoses were up 54% in 16 states, the use of fentanyl had increased 32% and methamphetamine use had increased by 20%. Furthermore, alcohol sales had increased by more than 25%.1 What can we do to stay connected? Take a moment to check in with each other. Pick up the phone. Explore online. Get active. Go outside. Ask questions. Talk about mental health, sobriety, and how you are feeling. You are not alone ; human beings are social creatures and connection to others is a fundamental human need. Now is the time to renew relationships and to focus on building a strong sense of community . You can start by taking a self-inventory of current social relationships and activities. Volunteering is also a great way to get involved. Volunteering makes a difference not only in the lives of others but also your own. Health benefits associated with volunteering include lowered stress, reduced risk of depression and developing new relationships, to name a few.

It is normal to experience anxiety, fear, and uncertainty given the present situation and the many changes this pandemic has created in our lives. As the pandemic wears on, it is likely the mental health burden it has caused will continue to increase. Social connection is the thread that binds our community together . By prioritizing human interaction and finding meaningful ways to connect during this time of social isolation, we can support each other and our own mental and physical well-being. Here at Centre, we will continue to find new and creative ways to empower our clients through their recovery from substance use.

Mandy Hofland, MA, LAC
Addiction Counselor
Fargo

1 Hudson, H. (2020). Addiction Center. https://www.addictioncenter.com/community/ recent-statistics-show-opioid-addiction-covid-19-dangers/

Employee Spotlight

Published January 19, 2021

Centre currently employs over 140 individuals across four facilities in Fargo, Grand Forks, and Mandan. Each employee plays a valuable role in Centre’s mission to help individuals achieve social reintegration.

We caught up with a couple of them to hear about their time with the organization.

Kristy Johnson, RN, is a Registered Nurse in Centre’s Severe Mental Illness (SMI) Unit in Grand Forks. She joined Centre in December 2020.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

I love working in behavioral health. I have years of experience. Addiction runs in my family and my heart is to educate, encourage, and give hope to people who struggle with mental illness and addiction.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

Working one on one with the residents, and I love the staff. They are great!

What do you hope to learn from working at Centre?

I hope to further my education, so I can help educate staff and residents. I hope to learn more about the crisis unit, and I am so excited to be part of this new program to help our community.

Samantha Buro, LBSW, is a Free Through Recovery Care Coordinator in Fargo. She has been employed with Centre since May 2013.

Why did you choose to work at Centre?

During one of my classes at college the Centre program manager at the time spoke to my class. At this point, I became interested in learning more about Centre. Through college I volunteered at the Juvenile Detention Center in Moorhead and working at Centre seemed like the right fit.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

My favorite aspect of my job is to get to meet clients where they are at in the community and then through time see them build a life without crime or drug use. For example, I watched and assisted a client go from homeless, to obtaining an apartment, getting out of an abusive relationship, and even through massive amounts of medical problems, continue to remain sober.

What do you hope to learn from working at Centre?

While working at Centre, I have learned that criminal activity can affect any family. I have learned how to help people stand up on their own and motivate them to get to a place where they want. The hardest lesson I have learned is that not everyone wants the same goals in life and my job is to help them find their goals and achieve them. I hope to continue to learn that people are different and how to help them in their own way.

Program Opportunities for Women

Published: January 24, 2020

On December 10, 2019, an NDSU nursing student provided a stress management presentation at Centre’s Fargo Female Transitional Facility. The presentation included the following topics: common causes of stress and the effects of stress on the body, mood, and behavior. The facilitator reviewed several ways to relieve stress and how participants can utilize these skills on a regular basis. The presentation covered information on which foods can help lower stress. She offered suggestions on how to lower stress by journaling, focusing on positive thoughts, being thankful, spending time with friends and family, talking with a loved one on the phone, laughing, or even just chewing gum. She went over breathing techniques that help reduce stress. She reminded participants that it is okay to just say no. Lastly, she covered how scents can reduce stress; she handed out samples of essential oils that have been linked to lower stress.

The participants enjoyed the presentation and asked for more presentations like this at Centre to help them cope with their current situations. Centre’s Fargo Female Transitional Facility will be offering Zing, a grant-funded exercise program facilitated by HeartSprings Community Healing Center. The first program is scheduled to begin in January 2020 and is a pilot project. Zing was created by an occupational therapist and a physical therapist to improve mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Participants are required to attend one-hour sessions offered three times per a week for 12 consecutive weeks. Program activities include: self-affirmations, positivity, meditation, visual, motor, balance, neurological, breathing, cognitive, and laughter exercises.

Lindsey Emerson
Program Manager
Fargo

Project HART Begins Final Year of Current VA GPD Grant Agreement

Published: January 24, 2020

Project HART began the final option-year of its grant agreement with the Veterans Affairs (VA) Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program in October 2019. In 2017, VA released a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) outlining the competitive grant application process for organizations that wished to continue providing transitional services to veterans experiencing homelessness. Project HART applied for and was approved to offer Service-Intensive Transitional Housing, Low Demand Housing, Bridge Housing, and Hospital to Housing models with a 36-bed program in Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 with the opportunity to be approved for two additional option-years in FY 2019 and FY 2020. The VA GPD National Office has notified existing programs that a new NOFA is scheduled to be released within the next two months outlining the new application process for FY 2021 and beyond.

Over the course of the existing contract, Project HART has assisted with 75 successful transitions to permanent housing. The implementation of the four different models offers flexibility to address the unique needs of veterans who enter the program and has been effective in assisting with high success rates. Specifically, the Low Demand model, which offers a harm reduction approach to veterans who have experienced difficulty being successful in traditional GPD programs in the past or to those who are not ready to address mental health and/or substance use disorder diagnoses, has been beneficial to our veterans deemed chronically homeless with more complex barriers to permanent housing.

Given the success of organizations in our community that have prioritized addressing veteran homelessness, the demand for Project HART’s services has declined, which is a great thing because it means that there are less homeless veterans in the region. However, the program’s decreased occupancy has led to the revenue from VA not meeting the operating costs of the program. In order to continue offering the services to veterans in Project HART that have led to a high percentage of successful discharges in the past, fundraising has become increasingly important. Project HART will be participating in Giving Hearts Day 2020 under “Centre, Inc. – Veteran Programming.” Also included in Centre’s veteran programming is Veterans Manor, an affordable, permanent supportive housing apartment for previously homeless veterans. Funds raised will address the funding gap for Project HART and improvements for Veterans Manor throughout the next year. Anyone interested in donating to support Centre’s veteran programming can find our donation page at www.GivingHeartsDay.org.

Chris Althoff
Program Manager - Project HART
Fargo