Partnership Insights: Person-centered Recovery Support for Men in Toledo

Written by: Andrea Carter - Lead Case Manager at Lazarus House Ministries

At Lazarus House Ministries, we've been dedicated to guiding men through the difficult journey of recovery for many years. Our work is rooted in a faith-based foundation, offering hope, accountability, and purpose alongside practical support. We see firsthand the struggles that come with addiction, and we understand that every person's story is different. Recovery doesn't follow a straight line, and change happens at different paces for different people.

Working closely with our partners at Personal Growth Counseling Services, we support men who are ready to take steps toward change, no matter where they are in their journey. Together, we provide consistent, compassionate care that blends professional counseling with hands-on, day-to-day guidance while honoring each individual's beliefs and personal recovery path.

While substance use challenges aren't unique to Toledo, our city has become a supportive place for recovery. Toledo is home to a growing network of services, peer supports, and community-based programs that make it possible for men to find guidance, connection, and hope. Many men come from other parts of Ohio, and even out of state, to receive services here because Toledo offers a strong and compassionate recovery environment with resources that make a real difference.

Alcohol and meth remain among the most common substances impacting the men we serve, with prescription pill misuse continuing to grow. Crack cocaine still affects families and neighborhoods, creating cycles that can feel overwhelming and hard to escape. But here in Toledo, and at Lazarus House, men do not have to face these challenges alone.

How Lazarus House Is Responding

Lazarus House responds to these needs by providing a structured, faith-informed recovery environment that addresses both immediate stability and long-term growth. We focus on consistency, accountability, and practical support to help men regain control of their lives and move forward in recovery.

Supportive Recovery Housing

Residents live in a safe, sober, faith-informed environment that emphasizes accountability, routine, and mutual respect. Daily structure helps men stabilize, reduce exposure to triggers, and build healthy habits that support long-term recovery.

Behavioral Health & Counseling Services

Through our partnership with Personal Growth Counseling Services, residents have access to professional counseling and mental health services. Support addresses substance use, emotional regulation. trauma, and co-occurring mental health needs, ensuring care is comprehensive and individualized.

Group Programming, Peer Support & Faith Development

Structured group programming integrates recovery education with opportunities for reflection, encouragement, and personal growth. Groups focus on:

• Emotional regulation and coping skills

• Relapse prevention and accountability

• Communication and conflict resolution

• Developing healthy routines, boundaries, and decision-making skills

• Exploring purpose, values, and spiritual growth as a part of recovery

Participation respects individual choice and beliefs while offering faith as a source of strength and resilience.

Case Management & Life-Skills Support

Each resident receives individualized case management focused on removing real-world barriers to stability, including:

• Employment readiness and job search support

• Transportation planning

• Housing goal setting and next-step placement

• Connection to community resources, faith supports, and family systems

Case management ensures progress outside of therapy aligns with recovery goals and daily responsibilities.

A Community-Based, Faith-Driven Recovery Network

Located in Toledo's southside, Lazarus House is deeply connected to both the local recovery community and faith-based supports. Our approach is not about judgement or quick fixes. It is about consistent support, clear guidance, accountability, and restoring hope.

Recovery is hard work, but Lazarus House, it is possible. At Lazarus House, we are proud to stand alongside Personal Growth Counseling Services, to ensure men in Toledo and beyond have the access to the help they need and do not have to face recovery alone.

Written by: Andrea Carter - Lead, Case Manager at Lazarus House