Decades of addiction and legal trouble led Richard Macasaet to Tlingit & Haida’s Reentry and Recovery Department.

He found safe housing at one of non-congregate shelters for men and started working his way through the two-year program aimed at keeping him sober and on the right path.

“If it wasn’t for this program, I don’t know where I’d be. I was at rock bottom. This place saved me. I’m still learning things about myself every day,” Richard said.

Richard is now 34 months sober and is one of the participant advisors for Tlingit & Haida’s Alaway shelter in Lemon Creek. He’s also working at the landfill and about to become a peer counselor for the State of Alaska.

“This is the last place I thought I’d be. Honestly, when I first started the program, I didn’t even think I was going to graduate,” Richard said.

Reentry & Recovery has two non-congregate shelters for men, Allen Court and Alaway, and Haven House for women. The program provides sober and supportive environments for participants returning from incarceration and those who have completed residential treatment for substance misuse or are currently in recovery.

The program offers culturally-responsive and peer-supported programming, employment and training opportunities, and intensive case management to participants. There are check-in meetings with staff, monthly group dinners and cultural activities.

Richard said the work is worth the effort.

“It’s hard but it’s a good hard where it teaches you more about life and living. There’s more out there than drugs and alcohol. As long as you take that one step, we’re here to help you get through it.”

The Reentry & Recovery team is fully staffed and ready to help people in need. There are beds available at all three shelters, where participants have their own room and communal kitchen, laundry, bathroom and living room spaces. Alaway also has a carving shed.

Richard encourages people to take the chance and reach out for help.

“The sky’s the limit for me right now. I’m not holding back, I’m going. I’m not going to stop.”

Eligibility Requirements

• Must not have had any high or moderate infractions in the last six (6) months prior to acceptance
• Complete all paperwork or submit an application, Release of Information (ROI), and referral
• Submit a valid Integrated Mental Health & Substance Use Assessment no more than one year old
• Must be sober from all mind-altering substances for 30 days
• Willing to engage in Behavioral Health services (addressing mental health and/or substance use disorders) that may include case management, peer support, individual and group therapy

To learn more about the Reentry & Recovery program, call 907.463.7366.