Men’s Sober Living Facility Offers Hope and Structure for Recovery

By Jennifer Cadotte

LCO PR Specialist

The Lac Courte Oreilles Men’s Sober Living Facility, formerly known as the Men’s Shelter, has become a vital resource for men committed to rebuilding their lives in sobriety. Far more than a shelter, the facility provides structured programs, services, and a supportive environment to help residents achieve long-term recovery and successfully reintegrate into the community.

There is a 4 Phase system in place that residents must accomplish to graduate:

Phase 1: Orientation and probationary period

Phase 2: Meeting attendance and employment search

Phase 3: Independent living planning

Phase 4: Housing and employment secured

On August 7, two residents of the program graduated, each earning a Completion of Phases Certificate in recognition of their hard work and dedication to sobriety. The ceremony began with an opening prayer from Storm Belille. Tribal Governing Board Chairman Gary Clause addressed the graduates, commending them for their perseverance and commitment to recovery, highlighting their achievement as an inspiration for others. Each graduate was honored with an eagle feather, a blanket, and a Walmart gift card, symbolizing respect and support for their continued journey.

“We need to educate our community that this is not a shelter.  It is a structured sober living facility,” said Director Rebecca Williams.  “We have daily schedules and chores that residents follow but do not want this to feel like a jail.” 

Graduates and residents praise the program’s structure and staff dedication. Recent graduate Corby Gordon described the facility as “part of a solution and we need to break the stigma the community has toward the men staying here.” 

Resident Robert Jacobs echoed that sentiment, saying, “I am grateful the Tribe is helping us out. The men who stay here need to relearn how to have structure and take accountability. This place allows men to be men.”

Jacobs credited Recovery Coach Sammy Gonzalas with sharing wisdom that stuck with him: “Sammy told me there are three yards you can choose to be in: this yard, the jail yard, or the graveyard. That resonated with me,” he said.

Beyond supporting residents, the Men’s Sober Living Facility also gives back to the community. Staff and residents are available to help those in need with yard work, housekeeping, and other household tasks.

Space is limited and residency does require an application to be admitted.  Before being accepted, the applicant must meet with the House Manager to discuss their application and see if they are eligible.  Applicants with a history of sex offenses cannot be admitted and those convicted of violent crimes are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

Applications for the Men’s Sober Living facility can be obtained the following three ways: 

Online at https://lco-nsn.gov/mens-sober-living/  

In person at the Men's Sober Living home at 9630 N CTH K, Hayward, WI 54843  

Phone: 715-257-5144