Program Details

Essentials:

The Briggs House and the Clem House offer residents an alcohol-free and drug-free environment while they are making the transition to a sober lifestyle. The House offers residents an opportunity to withdraw from their substance use disorders and from the persons, places, and things that trigger their substance use. Our recovery program is designed to assist the resident as he begins a new life. Beyond these efforts, it is up to the individual to fully commit to change.

12 Step Programs:

There are many ways that different people get sober. Staff at Clem House recognize that “one size does not fit all.” Individuals are encouraged to review all of their options before deciding upon a recovery residence, but those who wish to stay at Clem House, must recognize that they are expected to actively embrace and practice daily the 12-Step model if they wish to remain.  The 12-Steps Program arose out of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and involves a spiritually-based vision of recovery. Working the 12-Step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous has been an effective path to recovery for many people. The steps are about more than not drinking or drugging. They are about a better way to lead one’s life. Learning how to live the 12-Steps is best done with a guide. That’s why residents are expected to find a sponsor who will lead them through the process. How long one takes to work the steps varies from man to man. Residents are encouraged to at least complete the first three before leaving the Clem House and begin their path to honesty, freedom from alcohol and drugs, and embracing a better way of life.

AA/NA Meetings:

The Clem House requires residents to attend 5 meetings a week, while the Briggs House requires residents to attend 2 meetings a week. Attending meetings is valuable because they (a) offer opportunities to network with members of the recovery community; (b) allow opportunities to find sponsors/mentors; (c) provide information and education about substance use disorders; (d) offer a place to talk about issues related to disorders; and (e) offer opportunities to listen to other people who share the same or similar problems.

Program Expectations:

1. The primary expectation is that each resident will take an active role in his recovery.
2. ALL residents will take an active role in developing a meaningful and realistic recovery plan.
3. Residents will be employed or doing significant volunteer work no later than the beginning of the third week of residency unless excused after consultation with the Executive Director and/or his designated agent.
4. ALL residents are expected to do daily chores and work cooperatively with one another to maintain a clean environment at all times.
5. Residents are responsible for daily cleaning of their personal space.
6. ALL residents will complete and submit brief, weekly written records and will meet weekly with the Executive Director and/or his designee by appointment.
7. ALL residents will work cooperatively with staff members and fellow residents, follow all house rules, and demonstrate a commitment to 12-Step principles in all activities.

OUR DESIRED GOALS FOR EACH RESIDENT:

1. Life free of substances, thoughts, and behaviors that contributed to the individual’s  need for a recovery house.
2. Ability to make responsible decisions that enhance the life the individual chooses.
3. Knowledge, skills, and attitudes that lead to a gratifying personal life, work life, family life, and social life.
4. Valuing service as an enriching life pursuit.
5. An ability to access a wide array of services prior to relapse if assistance is needed in the future.