OUTCOMES: HOW EFFECTIVE IS TREATMENT
The true measure of our success will be when there is no longer a need for treatment programs, and the next generation is enrolled in college instead of incarcerated for drug-related offenses. But we count our successes incrementally, gaining ground with each man, each woman, and each family that turns to Free At Last to “get recovery.”
- Free At Last has provided treatment services to approximately 663 people in the past four years, with a current total of 107 program completers. An initial outcome survey in 1996 found that of the first 52 graduates, an overwhelming 72% were clean and sober, employed, reunited with their families, in stable housing, and had no further criminal offenses one year after completing the treatment. Free At Last has initiated an independent study with Dr. Benjamin Bowser of California State University Hayward as a Principal Investigator. The study will measure treatment effectiveness by surveying participants (completers and non-completers) and community impact by surveying the broader community. Full report.
- Enthusiasm is high in our U-TURN youth program. Young people find out that when they change their attitude and expectation, doors are opening for them. U-TURN participants are also contributing to community projects, and being connected to job training and GED classes.