A.C.T.S.
Alcohol & Chemical Treatment Series

Building a bridge between the world and the church gives those with addictions an added tool to use while in the fight to overcome their addictions by providing those hurting people with an opportunity for spiritual growth.  The Alcohol and Chemical Treatment Series (A.C.T.S.) is a ministry that reaches out to the community and offers this spiritual growth opportunity, following the example set forth by Jesus to show compassion to those in need.

A.C.T.S. classes help substance abusers by addressing three key areas: physical, emotional, and spiritual.  First, A.C.T.S. classes help individuals become aware of their physical addictions.  Next, the course educates participants on the physical and emotional problems that can result from this addiction.  Finally, the program encourages spiritual growth as a means of helping individuals deal with the obstacles they face when working to overcome alcohol and chemical abuse.

The A.C.T.S. ministry is built around a series of classes that constitute a court-approved substance abuse program.  Most courts and probation/parole programs require individuals with alcohol or drug-related offences to attend a substance abuse program.  By participating in the A.C.T.S. program, individuals can meet their court-ordered requirements while also benefitting spiritually.  The program consists of 12 class hours, and participants are awarded a certificate documenting their completion of the course.  The A.C.T.S. program works hand-in-hand with the judicial system by providing attendance records to the appropriate authorities.

The A.C.T.S. program serves approximately 220 people each year by providing classes in two locations.  On the POA's campus, classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings in the A.C.T.S. building.  There are five separate sessions scheduled each year.  The Rapides Parish Detention Center No. 1 serves as a second location for the program.  Classes at this off-campus site are held each Thursday.

A curriculum-based program that educates participants about drugs and alcohol is the staple of the course.  Each class meeting, participants are taught an object lesson, which is followed by a Bible study.  This combination approach is designed to salt the individual's path, producing a thirst that will lead to the church.  While A.C.T.S. workers do not expect conversions within the classroom structure, they believe the church will see life transformations resulting from the program.