VOA Alaska Adolescent Residential Center for Help (ARCH)

Volunteers of America administers a number of programs around the country, including the Adolescent Residential Center for Help (ARCH) in Eagle River, Alaska. Eagle River is just 20 minutes from Anchorage and features a great environment for outdoor activities.

ARCH provides youth ages 12 to 18 with residential addiction treatment and can also address co-occurring mental health disorders. VOA Alaska accepts all insurance, including Medicaid, and is in network with Blue Cross. They also offer a sliding fee scale.

Comprehensive Residential Treatment for Teens

The length of time in the youth program averages three to six months depending on the client’s unique needs. Services include evaluations, detox services and evidence based individual, group and family therapy.

Exercise is an important component for improving overall health and supporting addiction recovery. The facility has a gym with a climbing wall and basketball hoop. Additional features include large windows with beautiful views and an outdoor fire pit.

Residents get nutritious meals and on site schooling from a licensed teacher with the Anchorage School District. ARCH provides case management services and starts discharge planning right away, with a plan tailored to each individual’s needs and desires. Ongoing care can be provided through other VOA Alaska programs.

Fun Activities to Thrive

I really like that the program focuses on helping teens connect with activities that they find fun and meaningful. Clients can begin to create a toolkit of things to do instead of using drugs and alcohol.

Activities at ARCH include art, music, and outdoor recreational activities. They also help young people learn life skills which may include cooking, nutrition, and financial literacy. The end goal for program graduates is to be equipped for a full, exciting life in recovery.