Oxford House - Makaio

Oxford House, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1975 that operates a network of over 3,500 self-run, self-supported recovery homes across the United States and beyond, providing a community-based, supportive, and sober living environment for individuals recovering from substance use disorders. Originating when residents of a closing halfway house in Maryland took over the property to continue their recovery democratically, Oxford House emphasizes recovery, responsibility, and replication through its evidence-based model, which has been studied extensively and shown to yield high long-term sobriety rates—over 80% for residents completing a year in the program—compared to usual care. Each Oxford House is a rented, gender-specific residence housing at least six members who democratically elect officers for six-month terms, share equal expenses (EES), and enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs, with immediate expulsion for violations to protect the group's sobriety. There is no outside authority, time limit on stays (average about one year, but many remain longer), or professional management; instead, members handle all responsibilities, fostering self-efficacy, leadership, and peer support while encouraging active participation in AA/NA. The model extends through chapters, state associations, and the World Council, with Oxford House, Inc. providing charters, technical assistance, and resources like manuals to ensure adherence to nine core traditions that prioritize autonomy, financial self-sufficiency, and non-professionalism. Targeting recovering alcoholics and drug addicts, including those with co-occurring disorders, veterans, women with children, and special populations, Oxford House promotes long-term recovery by allowing residents to maintain employment and family ties in a stable, affordable setting that treats the whole person and prevents relapse through mutual accountability and community integration.