Oxford House - Endless Inspiration

Oxford House, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1975 that pioneered a unique, evidence-based model of self-run, self-supported recovery residences for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Originating when residents of a closing halfway house in Silver Spring, Maryland, took over the property and established democratic governance to maintain sobriety, Oxford House has grown to over 3,500 houses across 47 states, housing more than 24,000 people annually and helping hundreds of thousands achieve long-term recovery. The Oxford House Model emphasizes community-based, supportive, and sober living environments where members democratically elect officers, share equal expenses and responsibilities, and enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol use, allowing residents to stay indefinitely as long as they remain sober, non-disruptive, and contribute financially. This approach fosters responsibility, leadership, and self-efficacy, serving diverse populations including those with co-occurring mental health issues, veterans, women with children, and individuals from various backgrounds, with research from DePaul University showing sobriety rates up to 80% after one year—far surpassing traditional aftercare. Guided by the principles of Recovery, Responsibility, and Replication, Oxford House, Inc. provides charters, technical assistance, and resources to expand this replicable model, ensuring accessible, affordable housing that empowers residents to rebuild lives, reduce recidivism, and reintegrate into society without external authority or time limits.