Following a Jan. 28 announcement that it was ending its residential treatment services, Wernle Youth & Family Treatment Center in Richmond said in a statement March 2 that it is also ending its outpatient services, dismissing its service staff and working to evaluate future opportunities.
“The infrastructure needed to continue those services is cost prohibitive for present demand,” said Sandie Rowe, Wernle’s board chair. “We thank our dedicated service staff, and are working with compassion to assist them in their transitions as outpatient services wind down.”
A core staff of fewer than 10 people remain and Rowe said that group along with the board and outside experts are in a confidential process of finding the best way to help youth and families in need. “We will update the community and other stakeholders when ready and able to announce the next phase of Wernle service,” Rowe said.
Originally founded in 1879 as an orphanage, the nonprofit organization operates on 67 acres located on Richmond’s south side, with buildings that include dormitories, athletic and wellness facilities, classrooms, and offices.
When asked how long the organization might be able to maintain that campus before needing to consider a sale of some or all of it, a Wernle representative told the WWN that it is debt-free and has a seven-figure financial reserve, a valuable campus and a strong base of donors that give it “reasonable time to complete exploration of opportunities with third parties.”
A version of this article appeared in the March 6 2024 print edition of the Western Wayne News.