Oxford House - Elysium

Oxford House is a pioneering nonprofit organization founded in 1975, offering self-run, self-supported, and democratically operated recovery residences for individuals recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. Originating from a group of residents who took over a closing halfway house in Silver Spring, Maryland, to avoid relapse and foster long-term sobriety, Oxford House has grown into a network of over 3,500 gender-specific homes across 47 states, housing more than 24,000 people annually and emphasizing the principles of Recovery, Responsibility, and Replication. The organization's core philosophy centers on providing a supportive, sober living environment without time limits, external authority, or professional management, where residents share equal responsibilities, pay their fair share of expenses, and immediately expel any member who relapses to protect the group's sobriety. This evidence-based model, recognized by SAMHSA and validated by extensive DePaul University research showing up to 80% long-term sobriety rates, superior employment outcomes, and reduced criminal involvement compared to usual care, targets adults in recovery—including those with co-occurring mental health disorders, veterans, women with children, and special populations like the deaf or Native Americans—while encouraging active participation in AA/NA meetings and building leadership skills through elected officers with six-month terms. Oxford House, Inc., the 501(c)(3) umbrella entity, issues free charters, provides technical assistance via field staff, and supports expansion through chapters, associations, and a World Council, ensuring the model's integrity and promoting community integration as responsible, drug-free neighbors.