-

N – Notice

E – Every

P – Peaceful

E – Enjoyable

N – Nicety

T – This

H – House

E – Extends

H – Have

O – Open-Mindedness

U – Understanding

S – Serenity

E – Earnestness
 Welcome to Nepenthe House

While this is our “house”, it is our wish that you will make it your home, while you are here with us.

This is an opportunity that is afforded to very few and we hope that you will utilized your time here to take
advantage of the services being provided to you by our experienced staff.

The staff is knowledgeable and has a great deal of wisdom to share with you. However, it is up to you to be
open to suggestions that will assist you in your recovery. The accompanying handbook is designed as a guide
to assist you in making right choices and being able to transition into your new life.

Again, welcome to your new home and we trust that you will take advantage of this opportunity being offered
to you.

The Board of Directors

Matthew 25:40 Corporation
 The Facility

Nepenthe House is a transitional Living facility providing a link between treatment and return to life in the
community as a responsible citizen. Our primary goal is to provide the resident (you) with a period of stability
in an alcohol and drug-free atmosphere. This is achieved through a program of daily structure that includes
nutritional meals, pleasant surroundings, and a people-oriented therapeutic environment.

Nepenthe House embraces the philosophy of Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous and promotes the use of the
12 suggested steps in developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. All community resources are utilized to
assist individuals in maintaining sobriety, improving mental, physical, spiritual and emotional health and
developing a healthy level of self-esteem.

Life at Nepenthe House is based on positive peer group interaction and a community government policy
emphasizing personal responsibility. Your acceptance in the facility requires that you become responsible to
the “family” for your conduct and attitude. You are responsible for yourself while a resident at Nepenthe
House. You must have a sincere willingness and desire to be open to the suggestions and recommendations
from the staff and your “brothers”. You must be willing to make changes in your attitude, perceptions and
demeanor if you are to turn your life around.

This handbook is designed to introduce you to the policies and procedures of Nepenthe House. It will not cover
every possible situation that may arise during your stay, so it is important for you to use common sense and
good judgment. When in doubt as to how to handle a situation, consult with a Residential Staff member. The
Residential Staff is comprised of individuals who have experienced your “other” life and have chosen to be a
part of this community to share their wisdom and knowledge with you because they believe that you can only
have recovery when you can share it with others.

It would be beneficial to you to not develop a negative attitude with staff, because after all, they are here to
help you, not hinder you or your journey towards recovery. A good rule to abide by is to stop and consider
what you are about to communicate so as not to present a misrepresentation in a spoken word, negative attitude
or body language. While we cannot control how others will receive or perceive our communication, it is always
best to present it in the best possible way, so that things do not get communicated in a differential manner. This
applies to communicating with your peers, as well.

If you make a mistake, say so, learn from it and be prepared to accept the consequences. Nepenthe House is
operated on a “TRUST” basis. If the staff or other residents cannot trust you, then you no longer belong
here. The staff is non-judgmental about you and we expect the same from you.

Focus on the opportunities available to you during your stay and these guidelines may serve as the basis
for a lifetime of healthy, sober and rational living. Please remember that we cannot cover every
circumstance that may possibly arise while you reside in Nepenthe House so please ask if you are ever in
doubt.
 The Program

This section will provide information of the program that is being offered to you. There are some very specific
requirements, in addition the basic requirements. It is important that you understand these.

Staffing

Matthew 25:40 Corporation has a contract with Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Office for
Addictive Disorders to operate Nepenthe House as a half-way house for recovery. We are licensed by the State
of Louisiana, Office of Public Health and the State Fire Marshal to operate this facility and are subject to their
rules and regulations.

Due to budget requirements designed to provide the optimum of service, we operate with a small dedicated
staff. All of us are “addicts” of some sort and all of us are in recovery, whether it be from substance abuse or
just recovering from something that is affecting or has affected our lives. The staff is comprised of a Director,
Program Manager/Counselor(s), Residential Managers and Contract Professionals.

The Director has the responsibility for the facility, qualified staffing and the over-all day-to-day operation of the
facility and the program.

The Program Manager is your counselor, who has the responsibility of assisting you in developing your
treatment plan, providing group and one-on-one counseling services and offering information to assist you in
making correct choices.

The Residential Managers are responsible for insuring your safety and well-being and providing guidance in
your day-to-day living.

The Contract Professionals primarily include the services of a Physician, Registered Dietician and a Board
Certified Licensed Addictions Counselor. We do, from time-to-time, utilize the services of other professionals
as needed to provide specific services to our residents.

The above definitions are simplistic and by no means detail all the authority and responsibility associated with
their positions.

Since we are a small staff and in an effort to reduce confusion we require that should you have a concern,
question or problem, you do the following:

If you have a concern, question or problem, you are to FIRST consult with a Residential Manager. If the
Residential Manager is unable to provide the appropriate information, he will grant you permission to seek
assistance from the Program Manager or Director, as the situation dictates. If a Residential Manager is not
readily available, then wait until one is available. If a crisis situation exists, then you may approach any staff
member. Failure to abide by this guideline will result in disciplinary action.
 Probationary Period

Upon admission, you will be on a 7-day probationary status. This period allows the staff to assess your
commitment to working a recovery program. During this period, you are expected to do the following:

Become familiar with the Client Handbook.

Sign acknowledgement that you understand and will adhere to the rules and regulations of the program.
Attend all In-House and AA/NA community meetings.
Complete all intake procedures.
Learn names of staff members and peers.
Become familiar with the routine of the facility.
Obtain an ID and Social Security Card, if needed.
Address any legal obligations, if any.
Establish medical assistance, if required.
Learn “How It Works”.
Obtain sponsorship (AA/NA) in the community.

While on the probationary period, you are restricted to the facility, except for Staff approved scheduled
appointments or to attend AA/NA meeting with the House group.

You are allowed one (1) telephone call to notify family of your whereabouts (address and phone number) in
case of emergency and any other pertinent information. If it is necessary for you to contact legal, medical or
other professionals, you MUST have Staff approval. You are to inform your family that you will not be
contacting them and you can not receive calls from them unless it is an emergency. Otherwise, the pay phone,
staff phone and any off-premise phones are OFF-LIMITS.

While on probation, you may not take a weekend pass, attend social/recreational activities by yourself, or attend
AA/NA meetings without the group.

If you need to purchase personal items, you may ask the Residential Manager or another client to make
the purchase for you at their convenience or you may do so on Mondays, when the group (van) makes the
weekly grocery trip. Any personal items needed upon admission are at your expense.

If you find yourself becoming “bored”, there are always little chores around the facility that need to be done or
you may request additional study assignments to assist you in your recovery. Taking a nap or reading a novel
(unless approved by the Program Manager and/or Counselor) is not an option.

Working a Recovery Program

Expectations:

We expect you to follow all policies and procedures established for the operation of Nepenthe House.
This includes accepting restrictions based on your behavior and/or the lack of adhering to rules and
regulations. As noted earlier in this Handbook, there is no way to address every issue that may arise, so
you may be put on restriction for an infraction that is not noted in this Handbook.
We expect you to integrate into the program and develop healthy working relationships with the staff and your
fellow residents. If it is determined that an individual is unwilling to assimilate into the group and is having a
negative impact on the program, then that individual will be administratively discharged.

We expect you to stay out of establishments where alcoholic beverages and/or drugs are sold. This includes
bars, lounges, clubs and casinos. Anyone found to be playing video poker or other forms of gambling will be
discharged.

We expect you to NOT attend functions where alcohol and/or drugs are going to be used.

We expect you to conduct yourself in an adult manner while residing at this facility. Remember that your
actions reflect on your peers and the facility. No pornographic materials, either video or books, shall be
brought into the facility at any time. The definition of pornographic material shall be at the discretion of
staff.

We recognize the worth and dignity of all residents and expect that you learn to do likewise. Conflicts among
residents or residents and staff will be resolved through meetings with the Residential Managers, Program
Manager, Counselor and/or Director, as appropriate.

We expect you to be honest, trustworthy and not to judge others. There is no reason for you to spend any of
your effort to con the staff or fellow residents. (*Remember, that is what got you here, in the first place.)
*NOTE: If for some reason you are clever enough to “get over”, remember, you are only fooling YOU. No
one else has a greater stake in your recovery than YOU and no one else will suffer the consequences for YOU.

We expect you to always practice the 3 R’s – Respect. Responsibility. Recovery. Everything in your program is
covered by one or more of the 3 R’s.

During the first 30 days of your residency, you are expected to achieve the following:
- Attend at least five (5) AA/NA meetings in the community during the week and at least one (1) on weekends, as
well as in-house meetings, as applicable.
- Attend both in-house meetings, weekly unless you have prior approval from staff.
- Secure necessary documents for employment, i.e. Driver’s License, Birth Certificate, Social Security card, etc…
- Obtain full-time employment (No more than 40 hrs/wk) or community service, as advised by Staff. (You are
not here to work; you are here to work on your recovery and working in excess of 40 hrs/wk, leaves you little time
and/or energy to enjoy your newfound life skills.)
- Devise a monthly budget and establish an in-house financial saving plan in writing.
- Purchase AA/NA material (Books, Step-Working Guides, etc…)

During the second 30 days of residency, you are expected to:

- Attend at least five (5) AA/NA meetings in the community during the week and at least one (1) on weekends, as
well as in-house meetings, as applicable.
- Maintain employment.
- Maintain financial savings plan toward discharge
- Establish an AA/NA “Home Group” in the community.
- Maintain consistent contact with your sponsor, weekly or as necessary

During the remainder of your residency, you are expected to:

- Continue to maintain employment.
- Continue with in-house financial savings plan.
- Continue to attend AA/NA meetings as previously prescribed.
- Begin to do service work within your AA/NA “Home Group”.
 - 30 Days prior to anticipated graduation date, finalize discharge/after-care plans with Program Manager and
locate stable independent housing in the community, if you are planning to stay in the area.

Step Work Expectations

You are expected to work the first three (3) steps of either Alcoholic Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous before
you will be eligible for graduation.

Step One must be completed, discussed with your sponsor, and turned into the Program Manager by the end of
your second (2nd) month.

Step Two must be completed, discussed with your sponsor, and turned into the Program Manager by the end of
your forth (4th) month.

Step Three must be completed by the end of your sixth (7th) month and turned into the Program Manager. This
will confirm whether you will be eligible for graduation.

Failure to complete the step work timeline noted above will result in restriction. You will be placed on restriction
until you have completed any step work as defined above.

Discharge Planning

Discharge planning actually begins the day you are admitted to Nepenthe House. Your progress will be
monitored on an on-going basis and specifically at 30 day intervals, when you are asked to update your
individual Treatment Plan, at which time; the Program Manager/Counselor will review your goals with you.
Residents who are making clear progress towards established goals will be allowed to continue with residence.
You can expect your residency, here at Nepenthe House, to last at least nine (9) months. If you and your
counselor are of the professional opinion that the nine (9) months is not adequate time, you will be granted an
extension; however, under no circumstances will you be allowed to graduate prior to completing at least the
minimum required nine (9) months. Remember, there is no “magic” in nine (9) months; it only represents a
benchmark in time that allows you to begin building a strong foundation for your recovery program.

Types of Discharges

Graduation – Completion of the program and eligible for follow-up therapeutic, social and recreation activities
at Nepenthe House. A previous resident may seek re-admission after a period of six (6) months, subject to
availability and circumstances.

Against Staff Advise (ASA) or AWOL – A previous resident is not eligible for re-admission for a period of
one (1) year, subject to availability and circumstances. Not allowed on the premises, unless maintaining a
clean and sober lifestyle and with specific Staff approval.

Administrative – A previous resident is not eligible for re-admission for a period of one (1) year, subject to
availability and circumstances. Not allowed on the premises, unless maintaining a clean and sober lifestyle
and with specific Staff approval.

General House Rules

Enabling
This is the act of doing something for someone else that they can do for themselves. Or, having someone do for
you what you can do for yourself. We expect that you will not enable others to be less than fully responsible for
themselves; likewise, we expect that you will not allow others to take care of you. This specifically relates to
the performance of your assigned tasks.

Honesty

We believe that a healthy recovery is based on honesty. This includes honesty with yourself, as well as honesty
with others. If you are not willing to be honest in your dealings with your peers and the staff, you will be
Administratively Discharged. Dishonesty will result in discharge quicker than any other violation of house
policy, with the exception of relapse.

Employment

You are expected to obtain employment working no more than 40 hours a week. It is your responsibility to be
on time for work and to work your scheduled hours. It is also your responsibility to get to work or arrange
transportation to and from work. You are not to ask other residents or a staff member for a ride to work unless
it is an emergency or inclement weather. You are to make the best effort you can to request off Monday and
Thursday evenings for mandatory house meetings.

Staff Areas

All Staff areas are OFF-LIMITS AT ALL TIMES. These areas include the Director’s Offices, Counselor’s
Office, Residential Manager’s Room and Staff/Guest Restroom. You MUST have permission to enter any of
the aforementioned areas for purposes or counseling or cleaning. There will be no exceptions.

Common Area
 Recreation Areas (Howard Hall) are available only after 3:00pm, during the week, for residents who are
allowed to utilize the facilities.
 Meeting Areas (Howard Hall, Dining Room) are available for doing assignments and small groups.
 All Common Area are to be maintained in a clean and tidy manner, at all times.

Sleeping Areas
 Beds will be made and sleeping areas clean and tidy by 8:00am, daily.
 All clothing is to be stored neatly in closets and chests.
 NOTHING is to be stored on top of chests, nightstands or beds.
 Personal taste will dictate how you decorate your bulletin board; however, pictures or posters that are
sexually suggestive, gang themed or glorify alcohol and/or drug use, will not be permitted.
 NOTHING will be affixed to the walls without the WRITTEN PERMISSION of the Director.
 NOTHING will be hung from the sprinkler heads or pipes.

Kitchen
 Clean up ANYTHING that you use in the kitchen. Your mother does not work here and residents
assigned to the Kitchen are not responsible for cleaning up after you.
 Do not dirty the kitchen after 10:00pm during the week and on weekends.
 Do not remove dishes, cups, glasses or utensils, etc. from the kitchen or dining areas. There are plastic
cups and mugs available for outside use.
  No cooking of complete meals (other than dinner) without staff approval; you may utilize the toaster or
microwave to prepare or heat previously prepared food. If you wish to cook a complete breakfast/lunch,
you need staff approval and you must be willing to prepare enough for everyone and clean the kitchen
yourself or with assistance from other residents.
 Food delivered from outside sources must be consumed upon arrival. Leftovers may be stored briefly IF
properly wrapped and marked with your name and date. Food left unmarked, undated or for more than 3
days will be disposed of by resident assigned to clean the kitchen.
 All prepared meals will be consumed utilizing plates and utensils provided. This excludes the use of
paper/plastic plates and utensils, unless approved by staff.
 Residents not present for prepared meals who wish to have a meal saved for their later consumption
must sign up on the “Meal Save” board before departing the premises.
 Obey and adhere to any signs posted in the kitchen and eating area.

Laundry
 Your laundry day is determined by your assigned bedroom.
 Anyone who is not working will do their laundry in the mornings and early afternoons.
 Residents who are working will have priority during the evenings and weekends.
 Working residents must provide their own detergent and fabric softener. Residents on probation status
may obtain detergent and fabric softener from the Residential Manager on duty.
 NO shoes will be placed in the dryer…NO EXCEPTIONS!
 Do not overload the washer or dryer. There are two sets of washers and dryers, so there is no need for
residents to wash a complete week of clothing in one load. Overloading will damage the equipment.
*Hard packing clothing to the top of the agitator is an overload!!
 NO washing or drying clothes after 11:00pm on weekdays.
 Obey and adhere to any posted signs in the laundry room.

Office Telephones
 The office phones are STAFF USE ONLY.
 Residents may give the office number (439-3061) to immediate family for Emergency Use ONLY. Any
violation of this by your family will place you on restriction.
 You may also use this number (439-3061) on job applications, with the understanding that this phone is
answered “Nepenthe House”.
 In the case of a personal emergency, you may request to use the office phone for long distance call, at no
expense to you. This call will be made in the presence of a staff member.
 Understand that Nepenthe House will never acknowledge that you reside here when anyone calls
for you. We will let the caller know that we are not able to confirm or deny if you reside here.
Staff will take a message for you and put it in the mail folder that is marked with your name.

Residential Telephone Use – Pay Phone#: (337) 437-8314

 Personal cell phones and/or pagers are not allowed. If you are found to be in possession one, you
will be subject to restriction and the phone will be taken away.
 Your phone day is determined by your assigned bedroom. Excessive calls to and from the facility will
result in telephone restriction.
 If you are on probation or restriction, the phone is off-limits.
 Telephone is not to be used after 10pm.
 Calls are to be limited to 15 minutes, so that everyone will have access to the phone.
 Long distance calls are not to be placed, without the use of a calling card.

Resident Mail
  There is a file located adjacent to the Program Manager’s (Counselor’s) office. Each client has a folder
and it is your responsibility to check this file daily for any information directed to you. The lower
drawers contain forms to assist you.
 Your mailing address while residing at Nepenthe House is:
o 1414 Martha Street - Lake Charles, LA 70601

 Incoming mail will be left in your respective folders or with the Residential Manger on weekends. It is
your responsibility to inquire about your mail. The Counselors and/or the Residential Managers are not
responsible for notifying or delivering the mail to individual residents.
 When you leave Nepenthe House, it is YOUR responsibility to notify others of your new address. We
do not accept the responsibility to forward your mail after you depart. This is particularly significant if
you are expecting to receive anything of importance.

House Chore Assignments

 All housekeeping tasks and preparations are to be carried out by the residents.
 Chores are assigned each week at the mandatory Sunday in-house meeting. If you are assigned a chore
that conflicts with your work schedule, you need to discuss a change during the meeting.
 If a Crew Leader determines that you have not done your chore satisfactorily, you will be asked to redo
the chore.
 Disputes regarding chores will be handled by the Residential Manager on duty, at the time.
 Anyone having on-going problems with completing their chores will face disciplinary action, up to and
including discharge.
 Sunday’s general clean up should not be a major problem, if everyone does their respective chores daily
and correctly.

Passes (Passes are a Privilege…Not a RIGHT! And MUST be earned, accordingly. If you are not compliant
with your Treatment Plan, your pass request will not be granted.) All monies owed to Nepenthe House must be
paid in full before you will be granted any recreational passes…NO EXCEPTIONS, unless special
circumstances exist. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
 There are four (4) types of passes – 4 hours, 8 hours, 24 hours and Weekend Passes (48 hours).
 All passes require two (2) staff signatures.
 4 hour passes are utilized for job searches and errands and are approved daily on a case-by-case basis.
 If you are employed and are requesting a 4 hour pass it must be put in writing and given to the staff
member on duty to approve. Residents are only allowed one (1) 4 hour pass a month.
 8 hour passes are utilized to be able to spend time with your family. During your stay here you will be
allowed to have two (3) 8 hr passes with your family.
 24 hour passes are utilized for court appearances and Emergencies. “Emergency” passes will be
considered on a case-by case basis.
 48 Hour/Weekend Passes are utilized to allow you to go home and visit with your family. As a general
rule, you will be allowed two (4) weekend passes while you are at Nepenthe House. No pass requests
will be granted during your first two months of residency. Additional pass requests will be considered
on an individual basis.
 We do not grant passes in excess of 48 hours, unless unique circumstances are involved. This is to be
utilized for emergency situations and determined on a case-by-case basis.
 All pass requests are to be submitted no later than NOON on Wednesday of the week you are requesting
the pass. Pass requests turned in late, will typically be denied.
 All passes must be approved by the Program Manager/Counselor or Director.
 YOU must secure an alternate to perform your chores, during your absence; otherwise, you will be
responsible if it is left undone.
  You will be required to submit to a Drug Screen, upon your return from any pass. You must pay a
$20.00 fee for this drug screen prior to your departure.
 All passes expire at 6:00pm on Sunday, unless an extension of time has been approved by Staff or it is
so noted on your original request. If your return is delayed for any reason, it is YOUR responsibility to
notify the Staff member on duty and request an extension. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary
action up to and including discharge.
 If you have an approved pass and do not use it, it will be voided and you must complete a new pass
request. Each request is subject to approval guidelines and is not necessarily guaranteed; just because it
had been previously approved.
 Once you sign in from your pass, your pass is over and you will be required to follow house routine and
rules as usual.
*Note: You are not here to go on passes…your main focus should be on getting as much recovery as you
possibly can before returning to the environment from which your problems originated.

Curfew
 Curfew is at 10:00pm Sunday through Thursday and 11:00am on Friday and Saturday.
 Residents may stay up after curfew on Friday and Saturday, with Staff approval. At no time will this
activity interfere with other residents who have chosen to sleep.
 Failure to be in the house at curfew, unless job related and so noted on the Sign-Out Sheet will result in
disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.

Sign-Out Sheet
 A Sign-Out Register is located in the entry hall of the residential dormitory.
 It is MANDATORY that you sign out and in. Failure to do so will result in one (1) week’s restriction.
 Sign-Outs for work are to be the hours you reasonably expect to be away from the house. It includes
your travel time to and from work, as well as you shift time.
 Sign-Outs for job searches are limited to 3 hours and personal errands are limited to 2 hours. As much
as possible, you should detail your route and stops. If additional time is needed, please see the Resident
Manager for approval.
 The Sign-Out process is necessary so that we may contact you, should an emergency arise or should you
not return at your appointed time.
 Should you be unable to return at your appointed time, it is YOUR responsibility to notify Staff of the
reason for your delay and your expected time of return in order to avoid any consequences.

Television
 Television and VCR/DVD are provided. Residents are not allowed to have these devises on site.
 Television is available to residents after 5:30pm on weekdays and Staff discretion on weekends. Please
adjust the volume appropriately when asked by a staff member or resident.
 NO pornographic films/programs or films/programs that glamorizes alcohol and/or drug use are
permitted, this includes provocative music videos.
 Staff will monitor the use of the TV/VCR/DVD and settle any disputes which may arise.

Transportation
 Residents are expected to provide their own transportation. There are “house” bicycles available for
your use in your job search. Additionally there is public transportation available nearby. Once you
become employed, you may be given permission to utilize your personal vehicle or arrange
transportation through your employment.
  Nepenthe House van will be utilized for emergencies, medical appointments and group outings. THE
VAN IS NOT A TAXI!!
 Nepenthe House is not responsible for transporting you to and from work. The only stipulation to
this rule is when there is a weather advisory in effect.
 You are not allowed to ask another resident or staff member to bring you to and from work unless
a staff member is not available to do so or there is a weather advisory in effect.

Language and Conduct

 Residents are expected to be polite and respectful to one another, Staff and visitors.
 Fighting and rough playing in and/or around the facility may result in disciplinary action, up to and
including discharge.
 Residents should learn to curb the use of profanity (foul, suggestive language, cursing).
 When in the community, remember your conduct reflects on everyone at Nepenthe House, especially
YOU.

Screens
 In addition to the urine screen conducted upon your arrival, periodic random urine screens will be
conducted during your stay at Nepenthe House.
 You must provide a urine screen upon your return from any pass.
 If you can not provide a urine screen upon request, you will be asked to remain in-house until such time
as you can.
 Refusal to provide a urine sample will be considered a positive screen and result in your immediate
discharge.
 Should the staff suspect the use of alcohol, A Breathalyzer will be administered. Refusal to submit will
also be considered a positive result and result in your immediate discharge.

Visitors (You MUST have prior approval, before inviting guests)

 NO VISITORS ARE ALLOWED IN DORMITORY AREAS! NO EXCEPTIONS!
 Visiting hours are: Saturday 1:30pm – 5:30pm
Sunday 1:30pm – 5:30pm
 Anyone who is using alcohol and/or drugs is NOT welcome at Nepenthe House. You might want to
advise your visitors that should we suspect alcohol and or drug use, they will be asked to leave.
 NO VISITORS DURING MEETING TIMES. NO EXCEPTIONS!
 Only children of Nepenthe House Residents are allowed to visit. Please limit your visitors to not more
than two (2) adults. Family visits are encouraged and we will be pleased to discuss arrangements with
you in advance of such visits.
 We expect you to conduct yourself in a respectful manner, when entertaining visitors. Excessive
displays of affections will not be tolerated.
 Avoid difficulties by not having your “girlfriend” or “boyfriend” visit you at Nepenthe House. These
types of relationships can be hazardous to your recovery.

Personal Vehicles (The use of your personal vehicle, while at Nepenthe House is a Privilege, not a Right.)
 You will be allowed the use of your personal vehicle after you have been in residence for a period of
180 Days and have complied with all other requirements. In order to have use of your vehicle you must
have the following (which must be currently up-to-date):
 o Valid driver’s license
o Proof of registration and a valid state inspection sticker
o Proof of insurance, as required by law.
 You may use your vehicle to go to and from work or other approved activity.
 Your vehicle is not to be used as a taxi for other residents unless staff approval is acquired.
 You are not to take other residents to work without staff approval and only for emergencies or during
inclement weather.
 Any and all passengers must utilize a seat belt.
 You may not allow other residents to drive your vehicle.
 Loud music is prohibited. (Lake Charles has an ordinance against loud music and you can be ticketed.)
 Vehicles are to be parked on the South side of Howard Hall ONLY. Driveways are to remain free of
resident vehicles.
 It is your responsibility to maintain your vehicle in good repair. Inoperable vehicles will not be allowed
to remain on the premises in excess of 30 days.
 Your personal vehicle will not be allowed to remain on the premises, once you have been discharged. If
vehicle is left on premises it will be towed at the owner’s expense.
 Note that it is at the discretion of Staff if you are allowed to have a vehicle during your stay at
Nepenthe House.

Use of Personal Radios/Cassette/CD players

 Small personal radio/cassette/cd players with headphones may be used in the sleeping quarters ONLY.
If your use of these devices is disruptive, they will be confiscated until your discharge.
 If you are observed spending all of your time with your headphones on and not interacting with other
residents, your player will be confiscated until your discharge.
 Nepenthe House is not responsible for the loss/damage to any personal entertainment devices; safeguard
these as you would any other belongings.
 Rap, Heavy Metal and Alternative type music is strongly discouraged.
 Boom Boxes are NOT ALLOWED.

Valuables and Personal Belongings

 DO NOT keep anything of significant value at Nepenthe House as we cannot provide unlimited security
for your possessions.
 Keep your locker LOCKED at all times.
 You MUST take all of your personal items with you at discharge. We will not ship anything to you
unless you have it packed and pre-paid prior to your departure.
 Personal items left in excess of 2 weeks will be given to the Goodwill or other such agencies.

Loitering
 Residents are to conduct their affairs within the buildings or the patio area.
 Residents cannot hang out on the corner, the parking lot or the bench area adjacent to Howard Hall.

Dress Code and Personal Hygiene – Since your purpose for being at Nepenthe House is to be in recovery,
make life changes, and develop skills to assimilate back into society, you will be expected to adhere to the
following:
 Bathe and shave daily. If you arrive with a beard or mustache, you will be expected to keep it neatly
trimmed. Bushy or long beards/mustaches/hair will promote the appearance of being unkempt.
  Haircuts are always to be kept neat. Long hair, pony tails, cornrows or dreadlocks are not acceptable, as
they are a carryover from your previous lifestyle.
 Always be dressed before leaving your bedroom. Pajamas may not be worn after 8:00am.
 Clothing that is decorated with sexual, vulgar or alcohol/drug themed will not be permitted.
 Sexually suggestive clothing is prohibited.
 Trousers/shorts will be worn at/near your waist. Trousers/shorts hanging off the buttocks will not be
tolerated. Staff and visitors, male or female, are not interested in viewing your underwear.
 Tank top shirts are not appropriate, unless you are engaged in recreational or work activities. Only
regular t-shirts, sleeveless t-shirts or regular shirts are appropriate for general wear in and around the
facility and out in the community.
 Shoes, sneakers, boots and sandals are appropriate footwear. We do require that you wear appropriate
footwear when participating in special activities.
 Caps/Hats are not to be worn into the sanctuary. Please remove them upon entering the building.
Caps/Hats are to be worn as intended –straight– if you are unable to comply, please refrain from wearing
them, at all.
 All jewelry is discouraged, with the exception of watches and rings (1). If you have chains, you will be
limited to wearing only one; all others are to be returned home for safe-keeping. You cannot obtain any
additional piercing and/or tattoos while in the program.
 When seeking employment, your appearance and clothing must be neat. While your clothing may be
casual (no shorts), you will need to iron your clothes so that you present yourself as a responsible
person. You should present yourself as someone that an employer would want to hire to represent them
in public.
 You will wash your bedding and clothing, weekly. Refer back to section regarding laundry facilities. If
you are unable to comply with your scheduled day, make arrangements with the Residential Staff to
reschedule your time. Again, sneakers cannot be dried in the dryers.

Restriction Guidelines
 A resident may be placed on restriction or fined for violations of policies and procedures. Restriction
will usually involve the loss of privileges and/or may involve the assignment of tasks to promote a
higher level of self-discipline. Major infractions will be written up and placed in your file. If you have
three (3) written restrictions in your file, any subsequent violations will result in your discharge.
 While on restriction, a resident can not leave the grounds of Nepenthe House except to work or attend
school. Restrictions will include, but necessarily be limited to the following:
o No in-town activities, except as a house group function.
o No passes
o No personal errands
o No visitors
o No ordering of outside food, except as a house group function
o No personal telephone calls
o Resident must meet all other requirements of the restriction
 Any resident who is placed on restriction and chooses not to comply is subject to immediate discharge.
Any questions regarding a restriction should be addressed to the Staff person imposing the restriction
and no one else. If your weekend pass is denied due to a rules violation during the week, then you may
be subject to additional restriction. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Emergency Fire/Evacuation Drills

 Periodic emergency fire and evacuation drills will be conducted.
  When the alarm sounds, proceed to the parking lot on the south side of Howard Hall and await
instructions.
 The last person out of a room/area is to close the door.
 Staff will go through the building to ensure complete evacuation and then account for residents.
 Do not return to the building until the Staff has advised you to do so.
 Emergency Evacuation Procedures are included in the handbook. There are posted evacuation routes in
each building. You should acquaint yourself with these procedures immediately after arriving at
Nepenthe House. (It could save your life.)

Smoking Policy
 Nepenthe House is a Smoke and Tobacco Free Facility. Smoking is only permitted in designated
smoking areas. You are to deposit all used butts in the containers provided for that purpose. “Dip”
cigars, of any kind, and hand-rolled smoking material, are NOT ALLOWED. Anyone found smoking
inside the building or the van or in possession of any of the above mentioned items will be subject to
disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.

Grievance Procedure
 Residents are encouraged to work out their conflicts between themselves, in a rational manner. If the
need dictates, residents may request that Staff assist in the resolution.
 If this does not solve the problem, then request permission to have a joint meeting with the Program
Manager (counselor).
 If a situation requires the involvement of the entire staff, then you should complete a Grievance Form
prior to the meeting.
 Residents having a grievance with any staff person are encouraged to bring this to the attention of the
Director, or you may request an opinion from the Board of Directors or file a complaint with the Office
for Addictive Disorders through the Region V Office.

R E L A T I O N S H I P S!
 Your focus for the next nine (9) months, while you are here at Nepenthe House, is on your
RECOVERY. Therefore, you WILL NOT enter into any romantic, sexual, or social relationship with
participants at AA/NA meetings, staff or fellow residents, or any other person, on or off the grounds.
The only relationship you will be allowed is a working relationship with your SPONSOR.
 We strongly suggest that you do not attempt a relationship for at least one (1) year into your recovery.
Not everyone can handle the stress/burden of dealing with a relationship early on in their recovery.
 If you are in a relationship/marriage at the time of admission, you must advise the Program
Manager/Counselor of the status and associated concerns regarding the relationship so that appropriate
guidelines and treatment plans may be developed and adhered to. It is highly recommended that you put
existing relationships “on hold” while you work YOUR recovery plan. If it becomes apparent that your
existing relationship is disrupting your progress, the Staff will address this with you and offer
alternatives.
 Behind every skirt or shirt (if you will) is a slip and this is almost always true. Do not expect the other
person to be your “salvation” in recovery. Two “sick” people do not necessarily make a “well”
relationship.
 If it appears that you are becoming distracted from your recovery process due to a new relationship and
are not willing to break it off completely, then you will be asked to leave.
Fees

 The following is a list of fees that are applicable to your residency program at Nepenthe House:
o Deposit $150.00 (Refundable upon discharge/completion)
o Admit Fee $75.00
o Room/Board $50.00 per week for non-employed weeks
o Room/Board 30% Gross Pay (before taxes) upon employment
o Urine Screens $20.00
 You are required to pay a $75.00 non-refundable Admit Fee at time of admittance to Nepenthe House.
This fee may be waived until such time as a client is employed.
 You will be required to pay a $20.00 Urine Screen Fee prior to departure on a weekend pass. Failure to
pay fee will void your pass.
 Room & Board is assessed on a weekly basis. Your first two weeks on Probation will be assessed at
$50.00 per week and applied to your account until such time as you become employed. Once employed,
you are assessed either weekly or bi-weekly, depending on your pay schedule. Your Room and Board
will be calculated at 30% of your Gross Earnings (before taxes) per period, not to exceed $600.00 per
month. You will be required to provide a copy of your earnings and should be prepared with the
appropriate cash to pay your room and board. If you have a balance on your account, you are expected
to pay something each pay period.
 If you are unable to be employed, due to a disability, you must seek volunteer work in lieu of a wage
paying job.
 Failure to make timely payments on your account will result in discharge…this shows that you are not
willing to be responsible for yourself.
 You are paying room and board in arrears. When you leave, you are responsible for room and board
since your last payment.
 Deposits are refundable, subject to any outstanding obligation to Nepenthe House.

Savings Accounts and Spending Plans

 Developing financial self-sufficiency is an important part of the recovery process. Clients are given the
opportunity to begin this process at admission.
 You are advised to keep only necessary amounts of cash on your person. Cash should be safeguarded at
all times.
 You are to open an in-house savings account and develop a savings plan during the first 30 days of
residency.
 Deposits to your savings account may be made at the time you settle your room and board obligation.
 You must complete a Cash Withdrawal Form in order to withdraw from your in-house savings account.
Withdrawal requests will be submitted to the Program Manager (Counselor), at least two days prior to
anticipated withdrawal.
 You are expected to have, at a minimum, $600.00 in your savings account in order to graduate. This
amount should provide for deposits and rent for your independent living upon graduation. You need to
establish a savings plan in order to reach this goal.
 Any resident who does not demonstrate a willingness to develop and maintain financial responsibility or
save funds will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including discharge.
 We recognize that you may need some monetary assistance, prior to employment, for personal care
items, special equipment for employment, identification, medications, etc. Such advances are made on
an “as needed” basis and will be added to your account. Since we make these advances in “good faith”,
we expect you to re-pay such advances in a timely manner. We do not advance funds for court costs or
travel.
Graduation
 In order to graduate, you must have accomplished the following (failure to do so may delay your
completion date):
o Completed Steps 1, 2 and 3 and working on the Step 4, as validated by your Sponsor.
o Saved, at least $600.00
o Compliance with all Treatment Plan prescriptions
o ALL monies owed to Nepenthe House MUST be paid-in-full

Recovery Houses
 Matthew 25:40 Corp. operates several Recovery Houses in the Lake Charles area. We believe that if we
can keep you connected to a stable recovery supported environment, your chances of maintaining long-
term recovery will be greatly improved. The Houses are made available to graduates on an “as
available” basis for those who wish to remain in “community” with their peers.
 In order to maintain residency in a Recovery House, you must:
o Remain employed
o Pay rent in full and on time (every month)
o Pay appropriate portion of household utilities (electric, gas, water, phone, cable, etc.)
o Attend at least three (3) outside community meetings per week and maintain contact with your
sponsor (Sponsor/Meeting Verification sheets will be turned in on a weekly basis for
confirmation)
o Attend at least one (1) “in-house” meeting per week. This is to mentor your “brothers” in the
program.
o No overnight guests
o Submit to random urine screens, as requested by Staff or your fellow roommates
o Maintain your $100.00 deposit with Nepenthe House
o NO RELAPSE! NO EXCEPTIONS!
 Rent is $400.00/month; utilities are divided equally and are paid by the residents. Long Distance
charges, if any, are the sole responsibility of the resident making the calls. It is recommended that
residents purchase calling cards, in order to prevent disputes.

Some Words of Wisdom!!

 Residency at Nepenthe House is a privilege, NOT a RIGHT. Privileges may be revoked!

 Today is the Present. Accept this “gift” and use it wisely, one day at a time.
 If you have a question, ASK the Residential Manager.
 If you mess up…fess up…and “grow” from your new-found knowledge.
 As with our Higher Power, our love is unconditional and you are welcome to be a part of it.
 Chaos creates “dis-ease” which will feed our “disease”.
 Our 3 R’s are: Respect, Responsibility and Recovery (and not necessarily in that order).
Addendums
 Addendums will be copies of various agreements that you make and have signed upon your admission
as well as other pertinent information. You may want to re-acquaint yourself with this information.

$20.00
A well known speaker started off his seminar by holding up a $20 bill. In the room of 200, he asked, “Who
would like this $20 bill?" Hands started going up. He said, “I am going to give this $20 to one of you but first,
let me do this." He proceeded to crumple the bill up. He then asked, “Who still wants it?" Still the hands were
up in the air. "Well," he replied, “What if I do this?" And he dropped it on the ground and started to grind it into
the floor with his shoe.

He picked it up, now all crumpled and dirty. "Now who still wants it?" Still the hands went into the air. “My
friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it
because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth $20."

Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the
circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or
what will happen, you will never lose your value in God's eyes. To Him, dirty or clean, crumpled or finely
creased, you are still priceless to Him.

THOUGHT: The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we are but by WHOSE WE ARE! You
are special - Don't ever forget it

House Schedule

Monday – Friday

6:00AM Wake up/Get up

6:30 – 7:00 Morning Meditation (Mandatory – at least 10 minutes of solitary)
7:00 – 8:00 Exercise/Shower Time/Begin Chores
8:00– 9:00 Breakfast – (toast, cereal, pop tarts, fruit, eggs (microwave) Medicine Call
*Group breakfasts subject to Staff approval
By 9:00 Chores MUST be completed (Inspection)
11:00 – 11:30 Lunch (Sandwiches, left-overs, nuggets, etc.)(No Cooking)
11:30 Van leaves for Outside Noon Meeting
1:15 Van Picks up from Outside Meeting
1:45 – 2:45 Recovery Book Study/Step Work Group
3:30 – 5:00 Snack/Recreation Room open – non-working residents – not on
probation/restriction
5:00 Dinner
5:30 Television may be turned on.
6:00 – 7:30 In-House Group Meeting – Mondays and Thursdays
7:30 Van leaves for Outside Evening Meeting
9:30 Van returns/Evening snack/Medicine Call
9:30 – 11:00 Recreation Room Open
10:00 Curfew – All residents not working should be on property and signed in
11:00 PM Lights Out/Alarm Set

Saturday – Sunday

7:30AM Wake up/Get up

8:00 Start Chores
2:00 – 3:00 Nap
Midnight Curfew – All residents not working should be on property and signed in
1:00AM Lights Out/Alarm Set

Updated August 2010