Our Programs
First Step’s aftercare programs provide structure, guidance, and resources to help individuals sustain recovery, gain purpose, and step confidently into a new chapter of life.
Residential
Housing
Residential living at First Step Recovery House provides a structured, supportive environment designed to foster stability, accountability, and personal growth. Residents engage in daily routines that promote responsibility, healthy habits, and connection with others on the same journey. By living in a community focused on recovery, individuals gain the guidance, encouragement, and resources they need to rebuild their lives and take meaningful steps toward lasting sobriety.
Community
Center
Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, the First Step Community Center provides a welcoming space for connection and support. It offers resources that promote personal growth, continued education, and community. The center will also feature workshops, classes, and programs that foster learning, wellness, and broader access to recovery and community engagement. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming offerings.
Workforce Program /Micro - Business
At First Step Recovery, we recognize that individuals come from diverse work backgrounds—who want to develop new skills, and some who already bring valuable expertise. With the right support and opportunities, everyone can grow, build confidence, and thrive in the workforce.
Exciting
We Are
Expanding
Long-term recovery takes more than short-term treatment—it requires ongoing support, structure, and meaningful opportunities to grow.
To meet the growing demand for comprehensive aftercare in our community, First Step Recovery is expanding programs that bridge the gap between treatment and independent living. Our mission is to create accessible, sustainable pathways that help individuals build balance, resilience, and connection throughout the pivotal first year of their recovery journey.
Nature Program
The Nature Program offers participants transformative outdoor experiences designed to support recovery and personal growth. By connecting with nature, individuals practice self-care, build resilience, and foster emotional well-being—essential steps toward lasting wellness and a balanced, fulfilling life.
Chittenden House
The Chittenden House—an expansion of our residential program—will offer dedicated housing for individuals in maintenance programs - providing a safe and supportive environment that encourages accountability, healing, and confidence.
We Have
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our most frequently asked questions about our program and key terminology.
Treatment is a term often applied to mean Detox or Rehab - programs that wean people safely off drugs and alcohol.
Aftercare is the period of care typically following Treatment. It implies once medically cleared.
Recovery is more than detox or 30 days in treatment—it’s a long-term journey shaped by personal growth, choices, and support. Early recovery is a vulnerable time when many face serious challenges like housing instability, strained relationships, unemployment, and more. Yet aftercare remains one of the most underfunded parts of the recovery process—especially non-maintenance-based programs that focus on long-term change. Without this critical support, the risk of relapse, homelessness, and continued addiction rises. It’s time to change that. We must invest in comprehensive aftercare programs that offer people the structure, safety, and resources they need to build lasting, sober lives.
A lapse refers to a brief and often isolated return to substance use after a period of abstinence. It is typically a one-time occurrence and does not signify a complete abandonment of recovery efforts. For example, an individual may have a single drink at a social event and then promptly resume their commitment to sobriety the next day. Lapses are common, especially in the early stages of recovery, and can serve as valuable learning experiences. They provide an opportunity to identify triggers, evaluate coping strategies, and reinforce one's commitment to recovery. Experiencing a lapse does not mean the journey is over; rather, it can be a stepping stone toward deeper self-awareness and resilience. All that you learned on your journey matters.
A relapse, on the other hand, involves a more sustained return to addictive behaviors, often over an extended period. Unlike a lapse, a relapse may include a complete return to substance use and a potential abandonment of recovery strategies. It is a serious setback and often requires a reevaluation of treatment plans and support systems. Relapse is typically a gradual process that includes emotional, mental, and physical stages. Recognizing these stages early can help individuals take preventive action and seek appropriate support. It's important to note that relapse is not a sign of failure but an indication that adjustments may be needed in one's recovery approach.
Whether it's a lapse or a relapse, it's crucial to approach the situation with self-compassion and a proactive mindset. Both are part of the recovery journey and can provide valuable insights into personal triggers and coping mechanisms. Seeking support from a treatment team, engaging in therapy, and connecting with support groups can aid in regaining momentum and strengthening one's commitment to sobriety.
