As a father, I have seen firsthand the positive changes Oxford House has made in my son’s life. Recovery is not an easy road, and as a parent, there is only so much you can do. At some point, your child has to learn to take responsibility for his own recovery and his own future.

I believe the self-governing structure of Oxford House is a big part of why it works. The residents aren’t just given a place to stay—they run the house together, make decisions together, hold each other accountable, and support one another. They understand each other’s struggles because they are walking the same road.

I have watched my son become more responsible, independent, and hopeful about his future. As his father, seeing that change means more to me than I can put into words. Oxford House has given him YAstability and a community while still requiring him to be accountable for his own choices.

Families affected by addiction know how precious progress can be. When you finally begin to see your loved one getting his life back, you don’t take that for granted. I hope the self-governing Oxford House model continues to be protected so other individuals and families can have the same opportunity and hope that our family has experienced.