News and Events

CSTL Nominated for Best Health and Wellness in Fair Oaks

Clean and Sober is proud to announce that we’ve been nominated once again in the Best Health and Wellness category by the Fair Oaks Chamber of Commerce. “We’re humbled to be considered again for this prestigious award,” said Don Troutman, owner and founder of Clean and Sober Transitional Living. “It’s always an honor to be recognized for the service and benefits we provide to our residents,” Don added.

For over 35 years CSTL has helped residents overcome their addiction to drugs and alcohol. Helping residents get clean and stay clean has been a passion of Don Troutman’s, himself being a recovering alcoholic who kicked the addiction back in1989.

Fellowship - A Key To Recovery

CSTL has one of the largest fellowships and communities in the Sacramento area with 135 residents.

Fellowship is central to Recovery because it creates a supportive environment where individuals struggling with alcoholism and drug addiction can find empathy, understanding, and shared experiences. Here are a few key reasons why we believe fellowship is so important in recovery:

Shared Experience: Members of a fellowship understand the challenges of addiction because they have gone through similar struggles. This shared experience fosters a connection and reduces feelings of isolation.
Mutual Support: Fellowship provides a network of people who offer encouragement, accountability, and guidance. This support system is essential for long-term recovery, as it helps individuals stay committed to sobriety.
Sense of Belonging: Many people with alcohol and drug addiction feel alienated or disconnected from others. Fellowship in recovery helps them find a community where they belong, which can be a powerful motivator for change.
Encouragement and Inspiration: Hearing stories of recovery and success from fellow members can inspire hope and confidence that sobriety is achievable.
Non-Judgmental Environment: AA and NA meetings are safe spaces where individuals can share their feelings, struggles, and progress without fear of judgment. This openness helps people work through their issues more effectively.

CSTL has had more than 7000 residents over 35 years who have become members of our community!

Recovery Happens 2024

Every September since 1992, California Consortium of Addiction Premises and Professionals (CCAPP) has sponsored the “Recovery Happens” event at the State Capitol in recognition of National Recovery Month and to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and to celebrate the people who recover. For more than ten years, CSTL has been honored to be chosen to host a Pancake Breakfast for all Recovery Happens participants and other community members, including the local homeless population and others on their way to/from work in the area around the State Capitol. We provide a complimentary breakfast of pancakes and sausage, coffee, and juice to anyone who wants one. We also provide a seating area for them to sit and enjoy the meal and the festive atmosphere of the “Recovery Happens” event. For many of CSTL’s long-term residents, this is one of our favorite events of the year, because it allows us to give back to the Sacramento recovery community and to the residents and workers of downtown and because it is always fun and makes us proud to represent CSTL.

Chain Link Fence and Peer-Driven Culture

Comparing a chain link fence to a peer-driven culture where everyone is a link offers a useful metaphor for understanding the dynamics and structure of such a culture. Both provide Interconnectedness, Strength, Support, Resilience, and Flexibility

Chain Link Fence and Peer-to-Peer Culture

1. Interconnectedness
Fence**: Each link in the chain is interconnected, forming a continuous and sturdy structure.

Culture**: In a peer-driven culture, individuals are interconnected through shared values, norms, and communication, creating a cohesive community.

2. Strength

Fence**: The strength of the fence comes from the collective links. If one link is weak, it can compromise the integrity of the fence.

Culture**: Similarly, the strength of the peer-driven culture relies on the collective participation and support of its members. Weak links (e.g., disengaged members) can weaken the culture.

3. Support

Fence**: Each link supports the others, distributing pressure and stress evenly.

Culture**: In a peer-driven culture, individuals support each other, sharing knowledge, encouragement, and resources, thus distributing the “pressure” of maintaining the culture.

4. Resilience

Fence**: A chain link fence can withstand external pressures and forces due to its flexible yet strong structure.

Culture**: A peer-driven culture is resilient to external challenges because of its strong internal support system and versatility and adaptability.

5. Flexibility

Fence**: The flexibility of the chain link fence allows it to bend without breaking.

Culture**: Peer-driven cultures are often adaptable and can evolve by incorporating new ideas and practices from their members, allowing for growth and change without losing coherence.

Clean and Sober’s unique culture has been our foundation for success for over 35 years!

Demand Overwhelmed Us In 2023

(So We Added Two More Homes)

2023 was an exemplary year for Clean and Sober Transitional Living. Demand for our intentional living facilities was at an all-time high. We always appreciate the demand but, when compounded by the fact that our residents stay with us considerably longer than at any other sober living facility, our waiting list for new admittance averaged about 2 months. This was very dispiriting for us, having to unfortunately refuse entry to other clients in need.

Our solution was to open two more sober living homes and increase the total number of our beds. Now, we have beds available and can welcome more clients to join us and experience a stable lifestyle and supportive community, both essential to long term sobriety. And, most importantly, in addition to actively engaging in our residents’ recovery, CSTL provides them with sustainable housing to build a foundation of recovery that will last a lifetime.

For more information about Clean and Sober Transitional Living give us a call at 916-961-2691 and ask for Nick, Lindsey, Robert or Cait.

CSTL and the Association of Behavioral Health and Professionals

The Clean and Sober Transitional Living Team recently presented at the monthly meeting of the Association of Behavioral Health and Professionals on May 24. Bill Templeton, CMO, reviewed the History of CSTL and its’ founder, Don Troutman, the differences between Intentional Living and Sober Living, and the benefits of Peer-to-Peer and Community Living. Nick Fogle, General Manager, introduced the operational team, reviewed the procedures and qualifications for Admission to CSTL and its unique Culture. Mauro Appezzato, President of Mazzato Advertising and Marketing Group presented the benefits of Branding along with reviewing the successful performance of CSTL’s advertising against both consumers and industry professionals.

The meeting was extremely well attended with guests from as far away as Reno and Los Angeles.

The CSTL team would like to extend its thanks to Clare Brown and the ABHP group as well as to Diamond House for hosting the event.

CSTL Team Members Understand and Can Relate to Residents' Experience

One of Clean and Sober Transitional Living’s biggest assets is our awesome team! Every CSTL team member has personally experienced the CSTL Intentional Living program and as a result, has achieved long-term continuous sobriety. Our General Manager Nick, Office Manager Lindsey, and controller Robert have all successfully experienced the CSTL program and culture. With that understanding, they can relate to our client’s experience throughout the program and offer valuable insights to our clients throughout their stay at CSTL.

CSTL is the oldest (35 years) and largest (133 beds) Sober Living program in all of Sacramento and we believe the following is what separates CSTL from all its competitors:

Relatability: Staff members who have experienced addiction and recovery firsthand can better understand the challenges, fears, and triumphs that individuals in recovery face. This relatability fosters a deeper level of trust and connection between staff and residents.
Role Models: Staff members who have successfully navigated the recovery process can serve as inspiring role models for residents. Seeing others who have overcome similar struggles can instill hope and motivation in individuals who may be early in their recovery journey.
Empathy and Understanding: Staff members with personal experience of addiction and recovery are often more empathetic and understanding towards the struggles of residents. They can offer genuine support and encouragement based on their own experiences, which can be incredibly meaningful to those in recovery.
Insight and Guidance: Having staff who have been through the recovery process themselves means they can offer practical insights and guidance based on firsthand knowledge. They can provide valuable advice on coping strategies, relapse prevention techniques, and navigating challenges in early recovery.
Reduced Stigma: By having staff who openly discuss their own experiences with addiction and recovery, the program helps reduce the stigma surrounding substance abuse and mental health issues. This openness creates a more inclusive and supportive environment where residents feel comfortable seeking help and support.

Clean and Sober Transitional Living is a community of adults who share the intention of achieving long-term freedom from drugs and alcohol. We’ve helped and supported over 7,000 clients and look forward to assisting our next 7,000.

Celebrating 35 Years of Helping People Through Community

In April CSTL will mark the milestone of 35 years of helping people get clean and sober long term in our system of recovery. One of the foundational aspects of CSTL program is a community lifestyle. We believe a community approach to achieving long term sobriety is critical. The following are examples of how CSTL offers and supports our community:

Support groups: Regular meetings with groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide accountability, understanding, and encouragement from peers who are also committed to sobriety.
Fitness and wellness programs: Exercise and healthy living can be powerful tools for maintaining sobriety. Many of our residents join local gyms and fitness centers.
Volunteer work: Engaging in volunteer activities not only helps others but also gives individuals in recovery a sense of purpose and fulfillment, reducing the risk of relapse.
Sober social events: Organizing or attending sober social events, such as movie nights, game nights, or outdoor activities, provides opportunities for connection and fun without the pressure to drink or use substances.
Spiritual or mindfulness practices: Engaging in spiritual or mindfulness practices, such as meditation, yoga, or prayer groups, can promote inner peace, self-awareness, and resilience in recovery.
Peer mentoring programs: Pairing individuals in recovery with peers who have successfully maintained sobriety for an extended period can provide valuable support, guidance, and encouragement.

By participating in these activities within a supportive community setting, individuals in recovery can build a strong foundation for long-term sobriety and overall well-being.ark the milestone of

Oldest and Largest Transitional Program

CSTL is the oldest and largest transitional program in all of Sacramento. CSTL has revolutionized transitional living with an intentional living program and lifestyle. In a previous post we have explained the differences between Intentional Living and Sober Living programs.

Intentional living programs often emphasize a purpose-driven approach, helping individuals align their actions with their values. This can provide a stronger foundation for sustained sobriety by fostering a sense of meaning and connection, which may contribute to greater success compared to a standard sober living program that may focus primarily on abstinence.

CSTL has embraced this structure for almost 35 years complimented by a peer-to-peer driven organizational style.

In intentional living, a peer-driven approach can work well because it promotes a sense of shared purpose and accountability. Peers in such a setting often have similar goals and values, creating a supportive community where individuals hold each other accountable for intentional lifestyle choices. This shared commitment helps reinforce positive behaviors and fosters an environment where intentional living becomes a collective and empowering experience.

CSTL’s innovative approach to transitional living has helped over 7000 clients for over three decades!

Peer-to-Peer Benefits

Our founder, Don Troutman, created an intentional living program complimented by a peer-to-peer organizational structure. The combination of both philosophies has resulted in a unique and effective program that has helped over 7000 clients during our 35-year history. The following is an explanation of how intentional living, and a peer-to-peer organization can achieve outstanding results.

Peer-driven companies can be particularly successful in the addiction recovery space due to several reasons. First, the peer-driven approach often creates a strong sense of community and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges. This shared experience fosters empathy, support, and a non-judgmental environment, which are crucial elements in addiction recovery.

Additionally, the peer-driven model emphasizes personal connections and relationships, providing a robust support system for those in recovery. Peer support can be more relatable and inspiring, as individuals often find encouragement and motivation from others who have successfully navigated similar struggles.

Moreover, the decentralized and collaborative nature of peer-driven organizations allows for a more flexible and adaptive response to the diverse needs of individuals in recovery. This can lead to more effective and tailored interventions, increasing the overall success rates of addiction recovery programs.

CSTL Clients Stay Longer

Why do CSTL clients decide to stay at CSTL for much longer than the typical Sober Living Environment (SLE) programs? First and foremost, we do not have timetables for how long our clients can stay in our program. Our clients choose to stay longer to maintain their sobriety. Over 50% of our clients have been with CSTL for over a year, 25% over three years, and 17% over five years. These numbers are much higher than the average stay at other SLE programs.

Why?

Our founder Don Troutman created an “Intentional Living” approach versus a classic SLE model as described in the previous post. He also created a “for the peers, by the peers” organizational’ structure.

Our peer-driven organization has contributed to the client experience, long-term retention rates, and sobriety of our clients. Don’s vision of the combination of an Intentional Living structure and peer-driven organization has resulted in being the oldest (Celebrating 35 years in 2024) and the largest SLE type (134 beds) company in the greater Sacramento area.

The following is a summary of why we believe based on our experience a peer-driven organization can be very effective in the recovery space.

In summary, the emphasis on community, shared experiences, and personalized support makes a peer-driven approach well-suited for the complexities of addiction recovery, contributing to the overall success and longevity of CSTL!

From Bill Templeton, Formerly CEO of The Money Store

As a former CEO, I have always been impressed and respectful of Don Troutman’s unique approach to building CSTL into the premier company in the recovery space. From a peer-driven flat organization to creating an “intentional living “ approach to achieving long-term sobriety, Don’s innovation has separated us from the classic sober living model and companies.

While I understood the concept of intentional living, I never understood how it worked, and therefore, I conducted some research to educate myself better.The following is a summary of that research that I hope you find as enlightening as it did for me as to the power intentional living can have in changing lives.

Intentional living arrangements can be effective in maintaining long-term sobriety for several reasons:

Alignment with Values and Goals: Intentional living encourages individuals to identify their core values and long-term goals. When sobriety is a central value, intentional living helps align daily choices and behaviors with this value, making it more likely that individuals will prioritize and maintain their sobriety.

Personalized Approach: Intentional living is highly personalized, allowing individuals to tailor their living situation to support their recovery best. This might involve selecting a living environment that minimizes exposure to triggers or temptations related to substance use.

Mindfulness and Self-Awareness: Intentional living promotes mindfulness and self-awareness, which can help individuals recognize and manage triggers, cravings, and stressors that could lead to relapse.

Healthy Routines: Intentional living often includes establishing and maintaining healthy daily routines that support physical and mental well-being, reducing the likelihood of substance use.

Social Support: Intentional living arrangements may involve being part of a supportive community or network of individuals who share similar values and goals, providing encouragement and accountability in maintaining sobriety.

Goal Setting and Accountability: Intentional living can involve setting specific, achievable goals related to sobriety and holding oneself accountable for progress, which can be essential in maintaining recovery.

Positive Reinforcement: By intentionally creating an environment that supports sobriety, individuals receive positive reinforcement for their commitment to recovery, making it more likely that they will continue the path of sobriety.

Emotional and Psychological Well-Being: Intentional living can also encompass aspects of emotional and psychological well-being, addressing underlying issues that may contribute to substance use and offering healthier coping mechanisms.

Overall, intentional living empowers individuals to take control of their living situation and make purposeful choices that are conducive to maintaining long-term sobriety. By incorporating sobriety as a central value within this framework, individuals can create a lifestyle that supports their commitment to recovery and minimizes the risk of relapse.

Our Clients Love Us

Don’t take our word for it, it’s what our clients are saying by their words and actions. Over 55% of our current residents have been living with us for over 1 year! Over 25% have been with us over 3 years and 15% more than 5 years!! Our clients believe in Clean and Sober and its system to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety.

Our founder, Don Troutman, has evolved Clean and Sober Transitional Living from just sober living to Intentional Living. Sober Living primarily deals with getting sober while in Don’s eye, Intentional Living is more long-term and focused on personal growth. Having residents that have achieved long-term sobriety is a role model for others and part of the basis that contributes to the long-term stays of our clients. Don believes that individual’s will take ownership of their accomplishments when given the freedom and ability to do so. Our intentional living structure supports those individual freedoms, all in alignment with the community goals of long-term sobriety and living up to an individual’s God-given abilities.words

Recovery Happens 2023 Huge Successs!

Last week’s Recovery Happens event at the State Capitol was a huge success with thousands of attendees, and Clean and Sober Transitional Living is extremely proud to have participated in the activities. We had 35 resident volunteers, some of which were up bright and early brewing the first pot of coffee at 3AM! And we served over 750 Pancake Breakfasts to the delight of the very enthusiastic crowd.

Every year we look forward to this Kickoff Event celebrating National Recovery Month. Next year’s event will be on September 4, 2024. Clean and Sober will be there as usual and we invite you to come join us.

Nick Fogle, General Manager at CSTL Tent

Lindsey Keys, Office Manager. Nick Fogle, General Manager and Don Troutman, Founder and Owner

CSTL and Recovery Happens 2023

We are hosting the Pancake Breakfast again!

Please join us for the FREE 31st Annual Recovery Happens at the State Capitol Park in Sacramento on September 6.

Every September since 1992, CCAPP sponsors National Recovery Month at the California State Capitol where thousands gather to increase awareness and understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and celebrate the people who recover.

Clean and Sober Transitional Living is an active participant in Recovery Happens and we are proud and excited to host the crowd-pleasing Pancake Breakfast once again. “We have been feeding the Recovery Happens attendees since the very first event, over 30 years now“ said Don Troutman, founder and owner of CSTL, “and we’re happy to do it again”.

The pancake breakfast is a huge favorite and has fed as many as 1800 participants during Recovery Happens. It is staffed by volunteers and alumni of Clean and Sober who enjoy being actively involved in the event. “As a chef, being able to feed others is a form of expressing and giving love. Being able to do this for others that have been through, or are going through, the same struggle I faced has become an integral part of my recovery and growth yearly. It feeds ME to be able to feed others!” said Jessica Falkenstein, a CSTL alumni.

Jessica has been involved in the Pancake Breakfast since achieving her sobriety in 2015. She has been spearheading the Pancake Breakfast since 2017, managing all activities and procurement as well as a staff of 15 to 20 volunteers.

After enjoying your breakfast, be sure to stop by our table and say hello.