Bridges of Dodge County, also known as Joe’s House, operates as a Christian, faith-based
sober living home on the north side of Beaver Dam, Wisconsin. The home opened in December 2015 and supports up to eight residents at a time. Over 6-8 months, the program helps clients develop skills in parenting, career readiness, financial management, health, and finding permanent housing. They can work with probation officers to take justice-involved clients.
The home builds its approach on the belief that faith strengthens recovery. Bridges highlights Matthew 19:26, which says, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Staff encourage residents to develop a personal relationship with Jesus while they work toward sobriety and stability. Bridges also partners with the local chapter of the United Way.
Bridges enforces a structured schedule to help residents build discipline and stability. Residents must return by 10:30 p.m. on weekdays and 11:30 p.m. on weekends. Staff conduct regular drug tests to ensure sobriety and ban alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and vaping. Residents attend house classes, group sessions, church, and complete chores. While 12-Step meetings are not part of the house program, residents may attend off-site meetings that fit around the house schedule.
Bridges promotes healthy, face-to-face interactions among housemates. Residents can use phones, but staff ask them to take calls in their rooms or on the porch. They must also maintain good hygiene and respect the house’s calm atmosphere. By promoting courtesy and personal care, the program helps residents grow into responsible, respectful community members.
By the 4th week, each resident must find a same-gender sponsor who understands their treatment program. The house manager may contact these sponsors to coordinate support. This relationship provides accountability and guidance, helping residents stay committed to their recovery goals after leaving the program.
Bridges of Dodge County takes a phased approach to recovery, where residents study a book and develop a life plan. As residents progress into the next phase, they receive more flexibility.
Families and friends can pay for a resident’s admission and first four weeks of care. After that, residents cover their own costs. This expectation helps them develop financial responsibility and independence, both of which are key for long-term recovery and success beyond the program.