Betton House Hits Two-Year Mark

Betton House, Scranton, Pennsylvania, recently completed its second year of operation as a "sober dorm" for young adults, 18 to 24, making the transition from structured school, program or rehab to college.

Owned and operated by The Family Foundation, Inc. in Hancock, New York, Betton House opened its doors in the fall of 2005. Its first residents were Family Foundation School graduates who were soon joined by several students enrolled in the GED program at Lackawanna Community College in Scranton. By the end of the first year, the program had served 30 students from five Scranton-area colleges. To date, more than 90 students have benefited from the home-like atmosphere of Betton House, which includes recovery support from adult mentors, masters-level counselors, and like-minded peers; a Living Skills curriculum; and the opportunity for continuing education at local colleges and universities.

Much more than a sober dorm, Betton House is a close-knit community that operates very much as a family. In the 12-Step tradition that underlies the program, residents share their experience, strength and hope-right along with household chores, academic and job support, an exciting array of leisure activities, and plenty of sober fun.
Once again this summer, Mike and Roxi Losicco, Directors-in-residence, organized a six-week Summer Activity Program for students on break, and offered a month-long winter version last December entitled, "Cure for Cabin Fever." Taking advantage of the many sports and entertainment opportunities in the area, the students enjoyed amusement and water park outings, hiking, kayaking, miniature golf, major and minor league baseball, and two trips to Washington, D.C.

The Losiccos credit the success of Betton House to the growing need for safe, sane, and supportive living quarters for newly sober teens heading to college. "We definitely fill a niche for these young people, and love being part of their journey toward responsible adulthood," says Mike Losicco.

Betton House welcomes visitors anytime, including students, parents, educational consultants and others interested in a facility for young people emerging from a structured facility and ready to enter college. To schedule a tour, call 877-723-8866, or visit www.bettonhouse.com for more information.