A need for care in the community inspired a former Richmond resident to open a licensed sober home facility.
Ashlee Smith, owner and executive director of the Journey House, wanted to give back and provide care, structure and support to those who want to recover and transition into a sober, stable life.
“Journey House stands out because we truly allow residents to live in the home and feel safe while they recover mentally, physically and emotionally,” Smith said. “This is a judgment-free zone where people can start over and heal step by step.”
Journey House is an extension of Smith’s career in health care that began when her family moved to Richmond when she was in the third grade. At 16, she landed her first job in Friends Fellowship’s dietary department.
“This community has played a major role in shaping who I am today,” Smith said. She is also pursuing her master’s degree to become an anesthesiologist assistant.
Journey House became a reality once she found the right building. It had to be large enough — four or more bedrooms — and appropriately zoned to house individuals in recovery.
“This was the most difficult part of the process, but also the most critical. Everything eventually worked out, and I’m truly blessed with the home we chose to provide sober living services.”
As a Level 3 licensed recovery residence, Journey House is certified through the Indiana Alliance of Recovery Residences, which follows standards implemented by the National Alliance for Recovery Residences.
To become a resident, an individual must complete an initial intake assessment to ensure the facility is the right fit and can provide the appropriate level of support. Following the assessment process, eligibility is determined by a few factors, including recovery needs, the individual’s readiness and available funding. Journey House accepts Recovery Works waivers when applicable, as well as private pay.
Smith and her house manager, Taylor Marshall, can serve up to eight residents and offer peer support, accountability and tools to help maintain sobriety, with the ultimate goal of successfully transitioning back into the community. Residents may return to the home pending their previous success in the program and Recovery Waivers status.
While the home is reserved for women 18 years and older, Smith hopes to open facilities for both men and women in Richmond and the surrounding counties soon.
The Journey House is currently accepting residents. For more information on its services, visit journey-house.com or call 317-657-0749.
Updated Wednesday, February 11 at 9:45 a.m. to avoid confusion about existing facilities by removing a reference to the new facility being the first in Richmond.
A version of this article appeared in the February 11 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.