The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation (The MHA Nation), also known as the Three Affiliated Tribes, asked for their own treatment center for the years. Located on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, tribe members have struggled to maintain independence from the government and start to direct their own social services.

For many years, people in the MHA Nation who struggled with addiction were forced to leave the state of North Dakota to get the help they need and then return home to limited resources. The tribe would help pay for their services, but it was isolating to go so far from home.

The Good Road Recovery Center is the first (and only) treatment inpatient treatment care for tribal citizens. Funded entirely by MHA Nation, the center is now expanding its services to help women who have completed treatment transition.

The Good Road Recovery Center

In 2018, The Good Road Recovery Center opened for tribe members. Located in Capital City, North Dakota, 108 people have sought recovery. Only eight people have left and returned for the second round of treatment, which is not unusual. MHA Nation Chairman Mark Fox says the nationwide average of relapse is around 90% for people.

Now, the recovery center can give even more opportunities for help.

The Sage Coulee Aspiration Center

Now just a short walk away,  a transitional living center has been built with the women in mind. Many of the clients will be single mothers who will have children staying with them. The program hopes to help lift them out of their addiction and provide security until they are on their feet.

The 24-bedroom building will house women once they have completed treatment. Alongside their children, they have the opportunity to stay for up to 18 months while they work to rebuild their lives.

The housing will help prevent the women from returning to adverse or dangerous environments where they are prone to relapse. Instead, they can make decisions over time with the help of therapists, 12-step meetings, and their peers.