Substance use affects more than individuals — it touches families, workplaces and entire communities. Yet across the country, those seeking recovery often face long waiting lists and limited resources. Fellowship House, a United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) partner agency, is addressing these challenges head on with immediate access programs that connect people to treatment and support as soon as they ask for help.
Pretreatment Meets Urgent Needs So Recovery Can Begin Right Away
Fellowship House provides recovery programs designed to serve the unique needs of an individual who faces substance use and co-occurring disorders. The Pretreatment program offers a first step for anyone seeking recovery.
Free public classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday where participants can explore treatment options and clarify their goals or next steps. Participants receive immediate access to case management, peer support and resources such as medical care, mental health services and more – setting them up for more successful treatment outcomes.
“When someone is seeking help or treatment, they should not have to wait due to lack of capacity,” said Elizabeth Norman, CEO of Fellowship House. Pretreatment fills that gap so people can start having their needs met even if a bed is not available.”
Finding Strength Through a Second Chance
As an example, this actual client’s path to recovery shows what’s possible when help is available right away. He first connected with Fellowship House in 2018 through the Salvation Army and attended Pretreatment before entering residential care. After a relapse years later, he returned to Pretreatment before rejoining the residential program.
“I was afraid I would not make it through treatment this time,” he said. “But, Pretreatment helped me understand what to expect and made sure my basic needs were met right away. The people here, and other clients, have made a difference in my life and recovery.”
Now he is rebuilding relationships, including those with his stepchildren who are welcoming him home. He looks forward to starting a business, helping others in recovery and staying connected to his Higher Power.
“This is a good program and people do care. Don’t be scared to come in and use the tools they give you,” he said.
Recovery takes many forms, and Fellowship House works to find the right solution for each person. “We are not trying to fit them into a box. We are finding what fits them,” Elizabeth explained. Strong community partnerships, including our partnership with United Way, make those connections possible.
Expanding Capacity to Meet the Moment
As Fellowship House celebrates 60 years of transforming the lives of people impacted by substance use disorders, Elizabeth reflected on her own journey with the organization. She began 13 years ago as a social work intern and went on to serve in case management before working her way up to her current leadership role as CEO.
“I really believe in what we do, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else,” she said.“We serve an underserved and underrepresented population — people who may have fallen on hard times or made a mistake like we all have and just ended up on a different path. Seeingthe appreciation for the services we provide and knowing that somebody cares is really rewarding.”
Looking to the future, Fellowship House is taking bold steps forward. The organization recently opened a women’s residential treatment facility designed for gender-specific and trauma-informed care. The agency is also working to increase residential capacity by 30% to ensure that its practice of serving those who need help – without waiting – can continue.