MECCA's Mission. To enhance the health of individuals and communities through community-based substance abuse, mental health, and other health services.

Confidentiality. Anyone may call MECCA with concerns about his/her own or someone else's substance use. All calls are confidential. MECCA will not release information about any individuals without their prior, written consent. See our Privacy Policy for further information.

Finances. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. The amount of financial aid available to a client is determined by a financial assessment of resources and/or insurance.

Services and Staff. MECCA programs and services span the entire treatment and prevention continuum. MECCA's diverse staff is committed to providing the best possible individualized care to our clients. Staff expertise includes substance abuse counseling, psychiatry, vocational rehabilitation, psychology, public health, teaching, and nursing.

MECCA Philosophy. Substance abuse costs Iowans over $2.6 billion per year. That means every man, woman, and child pays over $930 annually to cover the costs of health care, extra law enforcement, auto accidents, crime and lost productivity as a result of substance abuse.

Substance abuse treatment and prevention saves money through decreases in unemployment, crime, other medical care and hospitalization. Following treatment there is also a measurable increase in taxable income and decrease in general health care costs.

At MECCA we believe addiction is progressive, chronic and potentially fatal. Alcoholism and drug addiction can affect every aspect of a person's life: physical, spiritual, vocational, social and emotional.

Treatment. Because addiction can affect so many areas, we employ a multi-disciplinary approach. Treatment is always provided in the least restrictive environment possible to optimize success and minimize expense and inconvenience.

Family participation, continued employment, and involvement with community resources and support groups are encouraged whenever possible.

Prevention. Effective prevention is not a single, isolated event but rather a proactive process involving all aspects of the community that builds with each stage of development of a person's life. MECCA utilizes a comprehensive approach that involves schools, families, religious institutions, law enforcement, business and social services.

Family. Addiction may be devastating not only to the addict but also to those family and friends with whom the person is closest. MECCA encourages family participation in every aspect of a client's treatment and recovery.

Referral. MECCA recognizes the extensive and varied needs individuals and family members may have in the course of treatment and recovery. We refer to, and work closely with, community agencies that specialize in vocational, psychiatric, family assistance, and additional areas. We also refer to self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Al-Anon in order to further assist our clients in recovery.