WHAT WE DO
At The Helm Recovery House, we understand entering into a life of recovery can be overwhelming and challenging. We are devoted to allowing men to discover themselves with guidance through the 12 steps which have been essential in improving the lives of countless millions. We pride ourselves on a community-based residence where we focus on introducing greater spiritual growth, a sense of purpose and most importantly, having fun while doing it all. Our focus is to guide men that have struggled with alcohol and substance abuse through the challenges they may face in early recovery, laying the groundwork to build a productive life, repair relationships, build new relationships, and discover a sense of self-worth. At the Helm, we understand the importance of connection with others throughout this process. We have laid out time for fun activities around the Greater Portland area that we do as a group, and with others in the recovery community. Through the 12 steps, we guide men through the work that it takes to become an independent and dignified individual.
OUR RESIDENTS’ EXPECTATIONS
Residents of the Helm typically will have completed a 28 day or more treatment program before entering the house. Residents are expected to find a sponsor within the first week of arrival at The Helm. Any assistance needed in finding a sponsor can be accommodated. Working the 12 steps as outlined in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous is a requirement of the house. We take the safety of our residents very seriously, therefore mandatory and random drug tests are given under any suspicion of use. Residents have an abundance of opportunities when entering the Helm. If needed, help finding work can be utilized by residents. Residents will be expected to make a mandatory Monday and Thursday night house meeting at 7:00pm each week. Prior to the Monday night house meeting we will hold a meditation group from 6:45 up until the house meeting at 7:00. Residents of the Helm will be expected to attend 3 AA/NA/CA meetings per week within their first 30 days at the house. After the first 30 days, residents are expected to attend 2 meetings per week while meeting all house requirements. Each resident has a weekly chore which will be listed for them in the house to keep the living space tidy. Residents are expected to keep their rooms clean and beds made. Residents are also expected to be employed, or have a working start date within their first 2 weeks of arrival at the Helm. As the 12-steps are an essential part of the structure, we will hold Tuesday night one hour, mandatory workshops for any residents in the midst of, or needing guidance through the 4th step. Residents will have more overnights available after the first 30 days, contingent on the completion of the 4th step.
About Me
I am an addict in recovery that has suffered and put many of my loved ones through the pain of active addiction. I have been on both sides of addiction. The addict, and the one that has loved active addicts and alcoholics. I moved to Portland, Maine from Vermont in the summer of 2017, seeking out an drastic life change for the first time after many failed attempts at geographical relocation or “just quitting drugs for good.” I suffered from self-sabotage day after day and year after year, while putting my family through a similar hell. When I got to Portland, the recovery community and opportunity, had opened my eyes to what life was actually about after 15 years of on and off destruction. Through the 12 steps and guidance of many men that had been through it before me, I found motivation, meaning and purpose in my life. My hopes are to be someone that can instill the same hope in others that was instilled in me.