About the Empire Recovery Center

The Empire Recovery Center, (EHARC, Inc) is a 501 (c )(3) non- profit organization.  Its services include withdrawal management (detox), residential treatment, and a sober living home. Its main office, detox facility, and residential treatment programs are located at 1237 California Street in a 100+ year-old renovated historical building.  It is the only residential drug and alcohol detoxification center between Sacramento, California, and Grants Pass, Oregon. Empire residential and detox programs serve men and women age 18 and up.

Since its inception in 1971, over 19,000 men and women with substance use disorders have taken part in the ERC programs. During the past fiscal year, 180 people were served in detox; the residential program served approximately 150 people. Anticipated to resume in 2026 with a new youth wellness component, the outpatient program is a 6-month program. The ERC has recently added a fourth program to its continuum of care: Sober Living at “The Dan McMillan Home,” bridging the gap between residential treatment and outpatient counseling.

Of individuals requesting help, 95% have little or no income.  Funding comes from Partnership Health Care, West Care, grants, contracts for services with Northern California counties, private pay, fundraising and donations.

An unnecessary hospital stay for a patient needing detoxification can cost between $1,000 - $1,500 per day. ERC can provide the same detox service for about $175 per day.

And the Empire is a Licensed and Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor training facility, providing intern training to colleges, universities and other alcohol/drug rehab associated organizations.  ERC also collaborates with many other well-respected community organizations.

Testimonials of a few of the former residents:

“The Empire Recovery Center taught me how to live life on life’s terms.  I came with absolutely nothing but the clothes on my back.  A year later, I have my family, work, and I’m happy, joyous, and free.”

            “I would like to thank the Empire Recovery Center for saving my life;”

“I thank God that I’m here today, sober and clean.  Enjoying the start of this new day, feeling alive and knowing what it means”