MILWAUKEE (June 10, 2026) —Following the recent announcement by AMS that it will cease operations at Vin Baker Recovery on June 5, Serenity Inns is proud to announce that the recovery center will remain open under its leadership. The facility will reopen as Vin Baker Recoveryoperated by Serenity Inns on June 15, ensuring that recovery services continue for individuals and families throughout the community.
The transition reflects Serenity Inns’ commitment to protecting access to treatment and recovery services at a time when the need has never been greater.
Importantly, this is not a new vision. Serenity Inns had already received approval from the Milwaukee Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) to establish a residential treatment facility on the upper level of the building while AMS operated services on the lower level. With AMS announcing its closure, Serenity Inns recognized an opportunity to preserve the entire facility and continue its mission rather than allowing a valuable recovery resource to sit empty.
“When someone decides they are ready for recovery, that opportunity may never come again,” said Kenneth Ginlack, president and CEO of Serenity Inns. “Our community does not need another empty treatment center while people are waiting for help. Serenity Inns is stepping forward because we believe recovery resources should be preserved, not lost. Our goal is simple: keep the doors open, save lives, and continue providing hope to those who need it most.”
The approximately 8,000-square-foot facility represents an important investment in Milwaukee’s recovery community and will continue serving individuals seeking hope and healing.
“Recovery gave me a second chance at life, and my hope has always been that this center would continue helping others find that same opportunity,” said Vin Baker, president and founder of Vin Baker Recovery. “I am grateful that Serenity Inns shares that vision and is committed to carrying this mission forward so that people seeking recovery will continue to have a place to turn.”
For more than 20 years, Serenity Inns has helped thousands of individuals rebuild their lives through treatment, recovery support, housing, accountability, and community. The organization believes that every person deserves access to care when they are ready to seek it.
The transition to Vin Baker Recovery operated by Serenity Inns represents more than the continuation of a building—it represents the continuation of hope, second chances, and a commitment to ensuring that no opportunity for recovery is lost simply because a door has closed.
“The Board of Directors fully supports this effort because it reflects our responsibility to the community,” said Kola Alayande, board chair of Serenity Inns. “Preserving existing recovery infrastructure is not only fiscally responsible, but also socially essential. So rather than allowing this facility to remain vacant, we are committed to ensuring it continues to serve the individuals and families who need access to quality treatment and recovery support.”
About Serenity Inns
Serenity Inns has been at the forefront of providing recovery and treatment services since its establishment in 2004. A collaborative effort initiated by a group of Lutheran churches in the Milwaukee area, the organization emerged to address the pressing need for residential treatment for men struggling with alcohol and drug addictions. With its growth, Serenity Inns has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing structured vocational and rehabilitative services within an environment of support and accountability, enabling men to rebuild their lives. Over the years, Serenity Inns has successfully treated over 700 men through its holistic residential program, which spans three phases over seven months. This comprehensive program addresses its participants’ physical, social, emotional, financial, and spiritual health needs, empowering them to recover and become productive members of society. Serenity Inns prides itself on fostering an environment of support, accountability, and dignity, making it an ideal setting for men committed to lasting change. For more information about Serenity Inns, please visit www.serenityinns.org, email pr@serenityinns.org or call Serenity Inns at (414) 252-0013.
