FAQ — Naa'e Sanctuary

Question 1

Who is Naa'e Sanctuary for?

Accepted Answer

Naa'e Sanctuary is a sober living home designed for Native American individuals in recovery from substance use. We welcome all relatives who are committed to sobriety and ready to engage in a culturally grounded healing journey. Native American applicants are given first priority; when space is available, we open our doors to anyone committed to healing and community.

Question 2

How long can residents stay?

Accepted Answer

Length of stay varies based on each resident's individual needs and progress. We work with residents to develop a plan that supports long-term stability. Most stays range from three months to one year, with extensions considered on a case-by-case basis.

Question 3

Is Naa'e Sanctuary a treatment center?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a sober living home, not a clinical treatment facility. Residents are expected to already be in recovery or actively engaged in a treatment program. We provide a safe, structured, and culturally supportive living environment, not detox or inpatient care.

Question 4

Do I need to be enrolled in a tribe to apply?

Accepted Answer

Tribal enrollment is not required. We welcome all individuals who identify as Native American or Alaska Native and are seeking a culturally grounded recovery environment.

Question 5

How do I apply for residency?

Accepted Answer

You can apply directly through our Apply for Residency page. The form takes about 10–15 minutes to complete. Once submitted, a member of our team will reach out within 1–2 business days to discuss next steps.

Question 6

Can I apply on behalf of a family member or loved one?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our application allows you to indicate whether you are applying for yourself or on behalf of someone else. We ask that the person seeking residency be aware of and willing to engage in the process.

Question 7

What happens after I submit my application?

Accepted Answer

A member of our intake team will contact you to schedule a brief conversation. This is not an interview. It is a chance for us to learn more about your situation and for you to ask any questions you may have. From there, we will discuss availability and next steps together.

Question 8

Is there a cost to apply or to live at Naa'e Sanctuary?

Accepted Answer

There is no cost to apply. Residency fees are discussed during the intake process. We are committed to making our program accessible and work with residents to explore available funding, tribal resources, and assistance programs.

Question 9

What does a typical day look like?

Accepted Answer

Days at Naa'e Sanctuary are structured but not rigid. Relatives are expected to work, Relatives participate in house meetings, community meals, cultural programming, and individual responsibilities. There is time for personal reflection, connection with peers, and engagement with outside support services.

Question 10

Are relatives allowed to work or attend school?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Relatives are expected to work or actively pursue employment, education, or vocational training as part of their journey toward independence. Naa’e Sanctuary assists residents with job searches, employment placement resources, vocational training, GED programs, and educational opportunities to help them build a stable, self-sufficient future.

Question 11

What are the house rules?

Accepted Answer

All relatives are expected to maintain sobriety, contribute to the household, attend scheduled programming, and treat fellow relatives and staff with respect. Specific house guidelines are reviewed during the intake process and upon move-in.

Question 12

Can family members visit?

Accepted Answer

Family involvement is encouraged as part of the healing process. Visits are welcome within established guidelines. We also offer family support resources and can help facilitate communication and reconnection when appropriate.

Question 13

What cultural practices are offered?

Accepted Answer

We offer a range of traditional healing practices including talking circles, resources for sweat lodge ceremonies, elder mentorship, land-based healing activities, and traditional arts. Participation is encouraged and supported, though we respect each relatives individual relationship with their culture and traditions.

Question 14

Do I need to practice traditional spirituality to live here?

Accepted Answer

No. We honor each person's spiritual path. Some relatives come with deep roots in traditional practice; others are reconnecting for the first time. We create space for all of these journeys without pressure or expectation.

Question 15

Are elders involved in the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Elder mentorship is a core part of our cultural healing model. Elders from the community are involved in programming, ceremonies, and one-on-one guidance. Their presence and wisdom are vital to healing.

Question 16

What support services are available to relatives?

Accepted Answer

Relatives have access to a range of wraparound services including mental health counseling referrals, substance use support groups, employment and vocational assistance, legal aid connections, family services, and spiritual support. We work with community partners to connect residents with the resources they need.

Question 17

What if I need mental health support?

Accepted Answer

We take mental health seriously as part of whole-person care. Our staff can connect relatives with licensed counselors and mental health providers who have experience working with Native communities. We do not provide on-site clinical mental health services.

Question 18

What happens when a relative is ready to leave?

Accepted Answer

Transition planning begins well before a relatives departure. We work with each person to develop a stable exit plan that includes housing, employment, ongoing support, and community connections, so that leaving Naa'e Sanctuary is a step forward, not a step into uncertainty.

Question 19

Is there support available after leaving the program?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Alumni are welcome to stay connected with our community. We offer ongoing peer support, access to cultural programming, and referrals to continued care. The relationship does not end when residency does.

Questions we hear most.

About the Residency Program

The Application Process

Daily Life at Naa'e Sanctuary

Cultural Practices & Healing

Support Services

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