KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Metro Drug Coalition (MDC) opened its recovery community center, The Gateway, on Sept. 23, 2022. Over the past two years, MDC says it has delivered over 70,000 services to East Tennesseans in recovery.
The center offers free activities including recovery meetings, yoga classes, sober social events and music therapy. In April, the facility also opened a fitness center, recreation area, and a coffee shop staffed by people in recovery.
To celebrate The Gateway’s second anniversary, Metro Drug Coalition launched a campaign to add 100 engraved commemorative bricks to their patio. Webster Bailey, the nonprofit's executive director, said they are hoping to reach that goal in the 100 days between its anniversary and the end of the year.
Bricks can be engraved to honor of someone who is in recovery, in memory of a loved one lost to addiction, in support of The Gateway, or with a custom message. All proceeds from the brick sales will support The Gateway's work.
The Gateway is open to anyone who is currently in or is seeking recovery from substance use disorders. Those needing services can visit the center at 530 W. 5th Ave. from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays. No appointments are necessary.
Additional recovery meetings are also offered on the weekends.
To learn more about the commemorative brick fund, you can visit MDC's website.