In July of 2026, all three of Warren Coalition’s recovery houses became certified by the Virginia Association of Recovery Residences (VARR).
“Accomplishing this was important to us because we want people to know that we value them, that they matter, and that we’re there to support them,’” said Warren Coalition Executive Director Christa Shifflett. “Recovery is hard work. Providing a place where they are proud to live shows that we respect them and the challenge of their journey. Recognizing and honoring their journey and courage is a way to show them that they matter.”
VARR certification is primarily a regulatory and compliance process. It does not provide the Coalition with complimentary access to resources or services, but demonstrates that their recovery houses meet the required standards for certification. The certification process required extensive documentation, including detailed written policies and procedures covering every aspect of the recovery homes. There was a comprehensive home inspection that evaluated cleanliness, adequate sleeping accommodations, posted rules and required documentation, and overall resident safety.
VARR certification demonstrates the Coalition’s commitment to providing consistent, high-quality care while maintaining compliance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 privacy regulations. It reinforces the organization’s commitment to protecting resident confidentiality, maintaining a safe and healthy living environment, ensuring appropriate accommodations, and delivering person-centered services within established regulatory standards.
“While many of these values have always been central to our program, certification provides an additional level of accountability and reassurance that these standards are consistently maintained,” said Warren Coalition employee Julia Laurent, who led the process in obtaining the certification. Laurent serves as a Certified Substance Misuse Counselor for the Coalition.
Shifflett noted that along with the VARR certification, the Coalition also received Virginia certification through Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), which qualifies the Coalition to apply for funding from DBHDS in the future.
Learn more about the Coalition’s men’s recovery houses and the women’s recovery house.