For nearly 40 years the Three Rivers Indian Lodge has been providing a valuable service to the Native American community.

Tucked beneath a grove of trees on South Union Road, Three Rivers – which will host its 38th annual Pow-Wow this weekend – serves as the only drug and alcohol treatment facility in San Joaquin County that specializes in those with Native American roots.

And its program draws people in from throughout the Western United States.

While this weekend the property will be awash with the regalia of various Native American tribes coming from as far away as Oklahoma, the house will also continue as a treatment facility for as many as 15 Native American men that come to get help with the diseases of addiction and alcoholism in a cultural setting.

The house itself works to maintain the anonymous personality that is a cornerstone of the recovery process, but those that spend as many as 90 days getting treatment onsite take advantage of the burgeoning treatment meetings in and around Manteca in addition to the onsite help that is provided with admission.

In addition to residential treatment, the organization – which is  incorporated as Native Directions – also provides as many as 90 days of aftercare as well as a transitional living facility for those looking to become more acclimated to the community and society while building a cornerstone of recovery and a drug and alcohol free life.

According to the group’s mission statement, “Native Directions, Inc. provides services through sensitivity and diversity for positive life changes, by healing, educating and empowering. We strive to promote pride, balance and independence for Native American people.”

Three Rivers Indian Lodge is located at 13505 S. Union Road, and additional information about services offered can be found at www.nativedirections.org.