The Smith House

Providing an environment conducive to making positive choices and change.

“I am most proud of getting a job and saving money. I have learned how to be more responsible and care more about things. And I am proud that I am trying to get my education.”

–Martin, 18

The Smith House strives to provide the structured, supportive environment needed for young men to prepare for a positive lifestyle “outside the system”.  The Smith House operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to promote success.  The Smith House is “home” to nine young men, ages 16 to 23, who are involved in the juvenile justice system.  These clients are encouraged to demonstrate growth and productivity within themselves and in the community as they prepare for independent living, a process that can take from six months to one year.   

Life At The Smith House

Mornings at Smith are spent showering, cooking breakfast, completing a chore, and preparing for the day. Every day begins with a check-in group to discuss schedules, progress with individual goals, and upcoming events. Clients will then either attend school, go to work, job search, or meet any appointments. Clients take turns cooking lunch throughout the week. Lunch is eaten family-style, with clients and staff at the table. After lunch chores clients spend the afternoon working, job searching, in meetings, or attending strength-based activities. Evenings consist of AA meetings, strength-based activities, homework/packet work, and working. Dinner is prepared and carried out the same as lunch. A check-in group is held each night to discuss the day’s events and process any issues from the day.

The Clients of Smith

Smith House clients have been involved in the juvenile justice system for a variety of reasons. Many come from difficult family situations and often receive little support or positive role modeling. Most clients present with oppositional behaviors and conduct problems, along with poor school history and substance abuse issues.

Smith House Services

The Smith House maintains a structured, home-like atmosphere that encompasses the reality of independent living. A pro-social routine and carrying out commitments are the priorities. The Smith House provides:

• A cognitive restructuring setting that is focused on finding solutions
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Evidence-based approaches, including Skills Streaming
• Substance abuse and recovery group counseling
• Opportunity for Residential Fast Track into ILS apartments
• Anger management support
• Positive role modeling from 24-hour House staff
• Daily skill-building practice
• Opportunity to practice honesty, respect, and accountability in a safe environment
• Individual job searching and maintenance assistance
• Transition support and aftercare

For more information contact:
Laura Barker
Smith Program Manager
lbarker@youthprogress.org