Transforming Lives
The Salvation Army Harbor Light Center has been a pioneering force in Indianapolis, helping Hoosiers break free of addiction. In 2024 Harbor Light is celebrating 75 years of service, marking its ability to adapt to changing times while keeping a mission of serving. When it opened in 1949, the center served only men who struggled with alcohol. Now the six-pillar program helps both men and women overcome substance abuse and gambling addiction.
Dr. Alicia Hoskins joined the Harbor Light team in 2015 and later became the center’s first woman and non-officer Executive Director. One of Dr. Hoskins first priorities was addressing the center’s accreditation. The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation has awarded Harbor Light the highest accreditation a provider can obtain.
“CARF-accreditation gives us the credibility and shows that we have the care and compassion for our clients,” she explained.
Harbor Light has also seen changes inside the building. Recently, structural damage to the roof left many dorms uninhabitable. Staff reconfigured the building so that clients could move in to other areas and continue the program during months of repair. Construction was completed in June 2024, staff joyfully welcoming clients into their fully renovated and updated rooms.
This year, Harbor Light’s success is showing in its numbers. Currently the center is seeing an impressive 83% resident success rate in programs and a client satisfaction rate higher than 90%. Dr. Hoskins credits her staff for helping deliver such successful numbers.
“We have licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, licensed counselors, and case managers to provide the upmost care,” she shared. Over the years, Harbor Light has witnessed countless stories of clients transforming their lives, emerging from the program with renewed strength and resilience. Through the support of a dedicated team, many have broken free from the cycle of addiction and are building a brighter future for themselves.
“We come in mentally, physically, and spiritually broken. It’s hard to accept that strangers really care for you, love you, and could relate to your personal journey,” explained Steven Lopez, a former Harbor Light client. “The staff understands that we are humans, too, and they helped out tremendously.”
As the Harbor Light Center looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. With its strong foundation, innovative programs, and compassionate staff, the center is poised to continue making a profound impact on the community for many years to come.
See photos from the Harbor Light Center's recent 75th Celebration Luncheon on Flickr HERE.