We sat down with Danielle Gray, the Executive Director of ORH, to learn how to become NARR Certified. NARR stands for the National Alliance of Recovery Residences. Each state has their own affiliate organization with their own requirements for certification.
Danielle has been with Ohio Recovery Housing for six years. She has a deep background in non-profit work. ORH’s mission is to ensure recovery homes provide a safe and supportive environment. Sober livings that join ORH are effective at keeping residents sober.
Certification through NARR is a must to join Ohio Recovery Housing. Danielle explained it sets the standard for recovery homes. It is the structure for safety and support. This process benefits residents and recovery homes to ensure best practices.
“We provide training, a comprehensive technical guidebook, and resources to help organizations get started”
Danielle also offered advice for organizations looking to become NARR certified:
1. Follow the Guidebook:
“The guidebook we provide is a crucial resource”. It outlines requirements and standards that all recovery homes should meet. Following the guidebook ensures your recover home is in compliance.
2. Understanding Zoning and Codes:
Recovery homes must be aware of zoning and building codes in the area. “What we see often is many local townships have prohibitions on unrelated adults who can live together within a single family home… Part of our quality standards are being a good neighbor”. Being in compliance not only keeps you within the law. It creates a positive relationship with your community.
3. Navigating Funding Challenges:
“Public available dollars are scarce and there’s a lot of competition for the dollars, so you must have a solid financial plan in place”. Public funding or grants are competitive and hard to find. Having a back up financial plan for your organization is required to succeed.
Building a recovery home can take months to years. Having these pillars in place is key to sustaining your successful business
ORH is always working to enhance their members experience and resident safety. Quality housing means long term recovery for many people.
“Those who are considering starting a recovery home out of the state of Ohio, try and get connected with the state affiliate organization. There is a desperate need as we are only meeting 31% of the need for recovery housing statewide. We need big advocacy voices to help make progress.”
If you’re interested in connecting with Ohio Recovery Housing, visit https://www.ohiorecoveryhousing.org/ or call 614.453.5133. To stay up to date sign up with their newsletter.
To help meet NARR standards, One Step Software comes highly recommended. Keep track of data needed for funding and certification with ease. Meet your financial goals by collecting rent the easy way.