The Oxford House Model

What is an Oxford House?

In its simplest form, an Oxford House is a shared residence where people in recovery can live together and support each other in a drug and alcohol-free environment.

There is no house manager or outside authority. Oxford House members share the house responsibilities.

An Oxford House member can stay as long as they like, provided they stay drug and alcohol free and pay their share of house expenses.

What is the Model?

The Oxford House Model references the system of operations of a unique, time-tested model recognized by the Federal Government as an evidence-based practice shown to bring significant results currently unmatched in the recovery space.

The Model encourages the development of leadership skills and self-efficacy. More than 80 percent of Oxford House residents remain clean and sober for the long term [link to DePaul study] even though many of them come from backgrounds that have included lengthy alcohol and drug use, periods of homelessness, and incarceration. Slowly but surely, members learn or relearn values and responsible behavior.

The Oxford House Model

What is an Oxford House?

In its simplest form, an Oxford House is a shared residence where people in recovery from substance use disorder can live together and support each other in a drug and alcohol-free environment.

There is no house manager or outside authority. Oxford House members share the house responsibilities.

An Oxford House member can stay as long as they like, provided they stay drug and alcohol free, are not disruptive, and pay their share of house expenses.

What is the Model?

The Oxford House Model is the unique, time-tested system of operations; an evidence-based practice shown to bring significant results currently unmatched in the recovery space.

The Model encourages the development of leadership skills and self-efficacy. More than 80 percent of Oxford House residents remain clean and sober for the long term even though many of them come from backgrounds that have included lengthy alcohol and drug use, periods of homelessness, and incarceration. Slowly but surely, members learn or relearn values and responsible behavior.

Nationwide peer-support

World Council

The World Council is made up of both alumni and residents of Oxford Houses who are elected by their peers. Electing members to staggered three-year terms of office assures continuity of the 12-member World Council. While Oxford House, Inc. has the sole authority to grant Oxford House charters, the World Council acts as an advisory council to the board. This assures integrity and correct application of the Oxford House system of operations as documented in the Oxford House Manual© and Oxford House Chapter Manual©.

World Council Website
The example of success

Alumni

Members who leave an Oxford House in good standing are encouraged to become associate members and offer friendship, support, and example to newer members. While no one is ever asked to leave an Oxford House without cause, some individuals will simply outgrow living in an Oxford House. They will return to their families and start new families; they may simply move into another living situation. Once members have left Oxford House, they should be encouraged to become active in the Oxford House Alumni Association.

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FAQ

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