Sober Living America (SLA), a leading nonprofit organization in addiction recovery services, commemorates its 30th anniversary this year. Founded in 1994 by Jim DeVarennes, SLA has grown from a modest 5-bed facility in Atlanta to a nationwide network of 47 locations, serving 2,000 individuals daily across the United States.
The organization's journey reflects the growing need for accessible addiction treatment services in America. SLA's founding principle, "Let no person be turned away due to lack of money," has guided its expansion and service model over the past three decades. This approach has made SLA a critical resource for individuals seeking recovery support, regardless of their financial circumstances.
SLA's growth trajectory illustrates the evolving landscape of addiction treatment in the U.S. From its initial expansion in Georgia to its current presence in major cities across multiple states, the organization's development mirrors the increasing recognition of addiction as a widespread public health issue. The establishment of SLA as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2002 marked a significant milestone, enabling the organization to broaden its services beyond housing to include basic needs provision.
The organization's comprehensive approach to recovery, including a jobs program with career advocacy and life skills training, addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals in recovery. This holistic model could serve as a blueprint for other organizations in the addiction treatment field.
SLA's expansion into public education through initiatives like the "Friends Care" campaign in 2016 highlights the growing emphasis on addiction awareness and prevention. The development of SLA University for training further underscores the importance of professional development in the addiction recovery sector.
The organization's continued growth, even during the challenging year of 2020, when it opened new centers in multiple states, demonstrates the resilience and ongoing demand for addiction recovery services. This expansion suggests that despite increased awareness and treatment options, the need for accessible recovery support remains high across the country.
As Sober Living America enters its fourth decade, its journey from a local initiative to a national organization serves as a testament to the persistent challenges of addiction in American society and the ongoing need for comprehensive, accessible recovery services. The organization's model of combining housing, employment support, and addiction education could influence future approaches to addiction treatment and recovery support nationwide.
