St. Louis County Treatment Courts will host a talent and art show on Friday, May 31, at the Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center in Duluth to mark Treatment Court Month. The event will highlight the achievements of individuals who have completed treatment court programs, as well as those who have supported them.
“This is a fabulous way to not only celebrate the achievements of those who have successfully completed mental health or drug court, but also to showcase their incredible talents,” said Duluth Mental Health Court Judge Amy Lukasavitz. “Mental Health Courts are an opportunity to effect sustainable changes for justice-involved people who struggle with mental illness, and this event celebrates those changes."
The event will begin with a joint graduation ceremony for the Mental Health Court and Duluth Drug Court at 10:30 a.m., followed by a mayoral proclamation. The public is invited to attend to learn more about treatment courts.
Treatment courts aim to help individuals with substance use and mental health disorders transition from the justice system into stable lives. They collaborate with various justice system partners to develop strategies that encourage offenders to complete treatment programs and avoid reoffending. Research indicates that effective treatment courts enhance public safety and reduce costs for taxpayers.
The Sixth Judicial District features eight Treatment Courts: South St. Louis County DWI Court, South St. Louis County Mental Health Court, South St. Louis County Veterans Court, South St. Louis County Drug Court, Carlton County Drug Court, Shore Substance Use Recovery Court, Range Hybrid Court, and Range Mental Health Court.