Foundation House overall provided for me what most rehabs and doctors did not/could not. I showed up at the house young, 19, and fresh out of rehab. I was full of fear and still suffered from some natural alcoholic defects. What I started to learn was how to live a life engulfed by AA and fun. Portland, Maine is an amazing city of sobriety with meetings all over town all the time. It definitely helps to have a house full of guys of all ages that are motivated to do the right thing.

One of the biggest things that Foundation House taught me was patience. I seemed to convince myself every 3 months or so that I was ready to move out. Fortunately, I had the gut feeling that Patrick Babcock and his staff MAY be right, so I listened to them and just hung around. It was the best decision I made. I know that had I moved out earlier there would be some life skills I’d be lacking that I learned in the additional time I spent there.

For the most part, the house is independent. There is a lot of freedom to go out and work your own deal. In my opinion, this is a good thing. I encountered many situations that are normally intentionally avoided in early recovery. With the guidance of Patrick, his staff and fellow peers, I was able to walk through them with faith and comfort. The house helped mold my new character, which has helped me to stay sober, and for that I am so grateful.

Mike D.
Resident, 2008-2009