Renewal House combines evidence-based treatment with deep compassion, creating innovative paths to recovery that strengthen both mothers and their children. As the only long-term family residential recovery program for women and their children in Middle Tennessee, Renewal House has always been driven by a vision that goes beyond addressing substance misuse. The organization views recovery not as a singular event, but as a multi-dimensional process requiring a whole-person, whole-family approach. That vision has fueled its growth, guided its decisions, and shaped its innovative spirit.
At inception in 1996, Renewal House broke away from traditional recovery models that separated mothers from their children. Leaders at Renewal House believed that preserving the parent-child bond was not just compassionate but essential. Over the years, as the needs of the community evolved, so has the organization. Its ability to adapt while staying rooted in its mission has kept it at the forefront of recovery, while serving families.
Innovation Through Integrated Care
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why Renewal House created an integrated treatment model that addresses the interconnected challenges faced by its clients—substance misuse, mental health needs, housing instability, employment barriers, and often a lack of familial support. Licensed counselors, family treatment specialists, and educators work together under one roof to create a seamless system of support.
This integrated approach allows Renewal House to respond to changes in the landscape of addiction and social services. For example, as the opioid crisis surged, the organization expanded its capacity to treat women with opioid use disorder by providing additional social supports.
Innovation Continues
A primary goal for Renewal House is to eliminate barriers that prevent clients from being successful. One major challenge for mothers in recovery is access to childcare. To meet this need, Renewal House built an on-site Child Development Center that delivers high-quality early education, focused on social-emotional growth, literacy, and school readiness. While mothers engage in treatment, their children thrive in a safe, nurturing environment. This dual-generation approach strengthens families and helps break the cycle of addiction.
Growing With the Times
Over the years, Renewal House has expanded both its facilities and programs to meet growing community needs. Outpatient services are available for women who need flexible treatment options, and the organization partners with local employers to open pathways to meaningful work.
Renewal House has to be responsive. The organization monitors community trends, listens to clients, and adjusts accordingly. Whether incorporating trauma-informed care, updating curricula in parenting classes, or integrating digital tools into case management, Renewal House consistently seeks ways to improve outcomes.
The Power of Innovation in Human Services
Renewal House is committed to staying connected to the needs of the women and children it serves. The organization continually asks hard questions: What barriers are preventing success? How can they be removed? What resources will make the biggest difference? And then, Renewal House acts boldly to create solutions.
This commitment to evolving has allowed thousands of families not just to survive, but to thrive. Mothers leave Renewal House with the tools to maintain sobriety, secure employment, and build healthy, stable homes. Children leave with a stronger foundation for their futures.
At Renewal House, innovation is compassion in action. It reflects the organization’s willingness to grow, change, and reimagine what recovery can look like—so every family has the chance to write a new chapter of hope.
