Designing Welcoming Drop-in Centers

A recent article by the Addiction Technology Transfer Center Network profiled Above and Beyond, a Chicago recovery center that uses design (e.g., room layout, furnishings, pictures, lighting, etc.) to encourage client retention. The article describes how the organization created a culturally attuned space, and purposefully structured its staffing in order to improve outcomes for clients, the majority of whom are youth who identify as African Americans experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty. The organization buys stylish new furniture and décor, for example, and chooses background music and reading materials recommended by clients. Additionally, and the center operates as a walk-in clinic with shared caseloads, so young people can receive help when they are most ready for it.

Read more about how Above and Beyond designed its drop-in space here: https://attcnetwork.org/centers/great-lakes-attc/news/above-and-beyond-creating-welcoming-environment-african-americans