Recovery Houses

• Over 18 years old
• Able to pass a drug test. If detox is needed, that must occur before coming to REAL LIFE.
• Willing and able to work; not on disability and not planning on filing disability
• If there is a mental health diagnosis, they must be regulated and completely medication compliant if on medication.
• Willing to commit to the strong rigor and structure that REAL LIFE requires, equating to almost 40 hours a week of programming. This includes case management, 25 classes and groups a week, competition of the 234 page REAL LIFE curriculum, and more.

• Make sure there is nothing left blank. If something does not apply to you, write that, but do not leave anything blank.
• Please have a working phone number so we can get in touch with you. If you do not have a phone, please let us know how we can get in touch with you for an interview.
• Please only submit one application and understand it can take up to a week to review it.
• Be sure to review all of the rules in depth before signing them.

It is important to understand that the first two weeks residing at a REAL House are considered “stabilization.” During this time, the individual must engage in about 25 classes a week led by staff, peers and volunteers, attend multiple meetings/appointments with their Pathway Navigator, perform service work, and engage in other necessary services, such as health care or mental health. While we do not provide direct services in health and mental health, we have strong partners in the community who we provide referrals to should the Lifer be interested. Obtaining government documents, such as identification and birth certification are also tackled during this time, as it is critical to have for employment purposes. Last, we ensure all are signed up for government assistance, which typically includes medicaid and food stamps. While this is an important part early in the program, it is our goal that individuals will be off of government subsidies by the time they complete the program. During stabilization, there is no free time to see family, friends, or go out. If a Lifer does have a medical appointment or other verified appointment, an accountability partner will usually join them during stabilization.

This period aims at building a strong foundation before a person begins work and their sole focus is no longer on only programming. This is often a tough time for people, as there are many things they want to do and accomplish during this period. However, this time and the building of the initial foundation is critically important to each Lifer’s longer term success.

After the stabilization period is completed satisfactorily, the individual is eligible to begin searching for employment, which our Employment Navigator assists with. This includes everything from helping with resumes, creating an email, online applying for jobs, and possible referrals to 1 of our over 100 employment partners. After employment begins, the person is still required to attend all groups and classes when they are not working, as well as continue to engage with their Pathway Navigator and work on the curriculum. They have other household chores that are required as well. During the remaining 5 or so months they are in the program, they continue to work on their “Pathway to Thriving” which includes all requirements to successfully complete and graduate from REAL LIFE.

Near completion time, we work with each Lifer to develop a transition plan to leave REAL Housing. This may be immediately after graduation, or may occur a bit later down the road. Nonetheless, we tailor each plan for each person.