Engagement and retention in a motivational, discovery, and transitional track based substance use disorder recovery program: evaluation, facilitators and barriers

St. Matthew’s House® Justin’s Place® Recovery Program (JPRP) is a substance use disorder recovery housing program that employs Motivational, Discovery, and Transitional Tracks. This study examined whether resident retention, resumption of substance use, family relationship restoration, and acquisition of employment were associated with JPRP completion. Secondary quantitative data from individuals with a substance use disorder who were accepted into the JPRP program and who stayed for at least one day (n = 447) was collected from January 1, 2022-August 31, 2024. Characteristics of the JPRP and its residents were identified. Logistic regression was utilized to determine the resident and programmatic variables associated with the odds a resident successfully completed the JPRP. Outcomes included employment readiness, employment status, housing status, and family relationships at JPRP completion. Alumni data was self-reported from a convenience sample. Of the 447 residents in the study, 68% entered Discovery Track (approximately 30 days), 38% entered Transitional Track (approximately 270 days), and 35% graduated from the JPRP. Discovery Track is considered to be the “engagement phase”; 302 residents (100%) were engaged in JPRP using day 1 of the Discovery Track as the denominator, and the 12-month retention rate was 51% based on the number of residents who entered Discovery Track, or 35% based on the number who entered Motivational Track. Being court-ordered (on probation) at JPRP intake (OR 3.355; CI 1.479, 7.61), participating in regular case management meetings (OR 9.47; CI 3.822, 23.476), and gaining employment while in the JPRP (OR 58.856; CI 26.087, 132.791) were associated with higher odds of successful JPRP completion. Of the residents who completed the JPRP, 59% were actively engaged alumni, and 76% had not returned to use. Being court-ordered to attend a SUD program at JPRP intake, attending regular case management meetings, and gaining employment while in the JPRP were associated with successful JPRP completion. JPRP offerings of family restoration support, intensive case management, employment opportunities, and active alumni engagement have facilitated long-term recovery and reduced return to use.