Certify Your Recovery Residence with Confidence in Georgia
In Georgia, certifying your recovery residence is not mandatory. However, obtaining certification through the Georgia Association of Recovery Residences (GARR), the state affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), is highly recommended. Certification ensures that your home meets nationally recognized standards for quality and safety, enhances credibility with referral agencies, and opens doors to funding opportunities. By choosing to certify, you demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting residents in their recovery journey.
What is GARR Certification?
The Georgia Association of Recovery Residences (GARR) certification ensures that your recovery residence complies with nationally recognized quality standards. By becoming certified, you demonstrate your commitment to the well-being of your residents while gaining access to essential resources, referral networks, and funding opportunities.
GARR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
01
Mandatory Meetings
There is a New Program & Recertification Program Zoom Workshop Every 3rd Tuesday at10 am. for 1 hour. New programs must attend 1 of these Zoom workshops & 1 IN PERSON membership
meetings before certification can be awarded.The IN PERSON meetings MUST be IN PERSON. Not via Zoom.
02
First Year Programs
After certification is awarded a New Program, during their first year, MUST attend at least 6 Zoom Workshops held on the 3rd Tuesday of every month & at least 6 IN PERSON MEETINGS held on the 1st Tuesday of every
03
Trainings
New members must be CPR & First Aid certified before they become GARR Certified. They can do this online at The Red Cross for $35. They also must have a Narcan Training completed and documented.
04
Inspection
If certification is granted for a program that does not have clients then they are put on a list to be inspected within 6 months to assess the program with active clients going through daily processes. There is an additional charge for this inspection.
Essential Documents for Certification
We help you prepare all the necessary documents required for GARR certification, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Our team also provides support with any revisions needed after the state review, so your application process runs smoothly from start to finish.
- Mission/Vision Statement
- Non-Discrimination Statement
- Permission to Operate - Landlord Agreement
- Legal Business Entity - Business License
- Proof of Professional Liability Insurance
- NARR Code of Ethics - Signed & Included in Emps Files
- Priority Population
- Cultural Competency Awareness Policy / Training
- Intake Application
- Resident Records Secured
- Employee Files
- Organizational Chart
- Resident Financial Affairs
- Resident Propery Searches
- Drug Testing Policy
- Employer Relationship Agreement
- Relapse & Punitive Charges Policy
- Program Fees Schedule & Agreement
- Admission - Discharge - Readmission Policy
- Resident Agreement
- Statement of Resident Rights
- Privacy Policy
- Grievance Policy
- Medication Policy
- Good Neighbor Policy
- Emergency Policy
- Communicable Disease Policy
- House Rules
- Paid Work Agreement
- Smoking Policy
- Peer Leadership
- NARCAN Video Training Policy
- Employment Policy For Clients
- Policies & Procedures
Why Work With Us?
Expert Guidance
Our team understands the certification process. We simplify the journey and guide you step-by-step, ensuring your recovery residence meets all requirements.
Tailored Support
We provide customized tools, templates, and resources to help your residence stand out and succeed. Every home is unique, and we tailor our services to fit your needs.
Compliance Guarantee
We ensure your home meets GARR’s high standards, providing a solid foundation for long-term success and peace of mind.
Continued Support
Join our Halfway House Coalition and gain access to weekly masterclasses for ongoing education, resources, and networking opportunities. Stay updated on industry best practices to ensure your residence remains a leader in the recovery housing community.
Questions? See if we've answered them here:
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What is the cost of GARR certification?
Application Member fee: $350. Inspection fee: $250 after 6months with active clients
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How long does the certification process take?
The timeline depends on how prepared your residence is. With our help, many residences complete the process in under 90 days.
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What happens if I don’t meet the requirements?
Our team works with you to address any issues before your application is submitted, ensuring you are fully prepared.