Substance use recovery is a challenging and transformative journey that requires unwavering support, a safe environment, and a network of understanding peers. Ohio Recovery Housing plays a vital role in providing such support through its unique mission. In an interview with Danielle Gray, the Executive Director at Ohio Recovery Housing, Danielle shared insights into their nonprofit's mission, what makes up a good recovery home, and success stories that exemplify the positive impact of recovery housing.
Ohio Recovery Housing’s mission revolves around offering certification to recovery residences. There was a pressing need to separate reputable recovery housing from unethical operators in Ohio, and Ohio Recovery Housing stepped in to bridge that gap. The association was founded to establish legitimacy in recovery housing, ensuring that taxpayer money supports legitimate recovery programs. To fulfill its mission, Ohio Recovery Housing offers training and technical assistance while educating the public about the importance of recovery. They play a pivotal role in ensuring that recovery housing is more than just a place to stay but also a haven for healing and growth.
The association focuses on creating safe, supportive home environments that minimize triggers and encourage positive change. To do so, Ohio Recovery Housing holds each recovery house to specific criteria:
Financial and Corporate Integrity: It's crucial for recovery houses to be transparent and honest in their financial and corporate practices.
Peer Support: Beyond just providing shelter, a good recovery house offers programs and peer support to help residents in their recovery journey. It should connect individuals with a network of peers who understand their struggles, allowing them to stay motivated, share experiences, and build community.
Cultural Responsiveness: Recovery houses should be culturally responsive, tailoring their programs to meet the specific needs of their particular residents at the time.
Physical Property: A clean and safe living environment with spaces for resident interaction is essential.
Community Integration: Being a positive part of the wider community is vital for recovery houses. Community integration can include connecting residents with local service providers and staying informed about community activities.
As a result of these efforts, the availability of suitable recovery housing in Ohio has been transformative, changing lives in many different ways:
Employment Rates: After entering recovery housing, resident employment rates increased significantly, from 17% to 61% at six months.
Financial Stability: Residents experience an increase in income and a decrease in debt during their time in recovery housing, especially after staying at a home for six months or longer.
Improved Mental Health: Individuals in recovery housing report better mental health outcomes.
The association recommends various resources for individuals seeking recovery support, including local county wards, community programs, and Ohio Recovery Housing’s website, which features a recovery house locator.
Ohio Recovery Housing is making a profound difference in the lives of individuals on the path to recovery. Through their mission, commitment to excellence, and dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment, they are helping individuals overcome addiction, find employment, and rebuild their lives. Their impact extends beyond the walls of recovery houses, fostering healthier communities and brighter futures for countless individuals in Ohio.
Contributors: Jenny Zhang, Behaivior
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