Colorado NARR State Affiliate (CAARR) | Complete Guide

Introduction: What is CAARR?

The Colorado Association of Recovery Residences (CAARR) is the official state affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) in Colorado. CAARR is responsible for certifying recovery residences throughout the state to ensure they meet nationally recognized standards for safety, support, and ethical operations.

As Colorado continues to address substance use disorders and the ongoing impacts of the opioid crisis, CAARR plays a vital role in ensuring that individuals in recovery have access to quality housing environments that support their long-term sobriety journey.

About the Colorado Association of Recovery Residences

Mission Statement

CAARR’s mission is to enhance access to quality recovery residences by setting standards, providing education, certifying homes, and advocating for those in recovery throughout Colorado.

Affiliation with NARR

CAARR operates as part of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences, which was established in 2011 to develop and maintain national standards for recovery housing. With over 6,500 certified recovery residences nationwide, NARR and its state affiliates form the backbone of quality assurance in the recovery housing industry.

Key Functions

• Certification: Certifying recovery residences according to NARR Standard 3.0
• Training: Providing education on best practices for operating recovery homes
• Advocacy: Promoting policies that support recovery housing quality and access
• Standards Enforcement: Ensuring certified homes maintain compliance
• Resource Provision: Supporting operators with tools and guidance

For more information, visit the NARR Affiliates page to find CAARR’s current contact information.

NARR Certification Levels

CAARR certifies recovery residences across NARR’s four levels of support, based on the intensity and type of services provided:

Level I - Peer-Run

• Democratically self-governed homes
• No paid staff on-site
• Residents share all responsibilities equally
• Peer accountability and mutual support
• Maximum autonomy with minimal structure

Level II - Monitored

• House manager provides oversight
• Peer-led environment with defined structure
• Regular house meetings and accountability measures
• Residents expected to participate in recovery activities
• Common model for sober living homes

Level III - Supervised

• Paid staff provides on-site supervision
• Structured programming and life skills support
• Professional oversight of daily operations
• Higher level of accountability and structure

Level IV - Service Provider

• Licensed clinical treatment component
• Professional clinical staff on-site
• Highest level of structure and support
• Integration with formal treatment services

How to Get Certified in Colorado

Step 1: Understand NARR Standard 3.0

Before applying, familiarize yourself with NARR’s Standard 3.0 requirements. Key areas include:

• Administrative operations and governance
• Physical environment and safety standards
• Recovery support services and programming
• Good neighbor policies and community relations
• Resident rights and ethical practices

Step 2: Determine Your Certification Level

Assess your residence to determine which NARR level best fits:

• Staffing model and oversight structure
• Services and programming offered
• Level of structure and accountability
• Clinical components (if applicable)

Step 3: Prepare Documentation

Gather comprehensive documentation including:

• Organizational policies and procedures
• Resident agreements and house rules
• Emergency response protocols
• Fire safety and building inspection certificates
• Insurance and liability documentation
• Staff qualifications and training records

Step 4: Submit Application to CAARR

Contact CAARR through the NARR affiliate network to begin the application process:

• Complete required application forms
• Submit all documentation
• Pay applicable certification fees

Step 5: Complete On-Site Inspection

CAARR representatives conduct on-site inspections to verify:

• Physical safety and cleanliness
• Compliance with fire and building codes
• Recovery-supportive environment
• Documentation accuracy
• Operational practices match stated policies

Step 6: Maintain Certification

Upon certification:

• Participate in ongoing education and training
• Implement regular internal audits for compliance
• Maintain quality assurance processes
• Prepare for annual recertification reviews

Benefits of CAARR Certification

For Operators

• Credibility: NARR certification demonstrates commitment to excellence
• Referrals: Enhanced relationships with treatment providers and courts
• Reputation: Differentiation from non-certified facilities
• Resources: Access to training and best practices
• Network: Connection to other certified operators statewide

For Residents

• Safety Assurance: Certified homes meet rigorous standards
• Quality Environment: Recovery-supportive atmosphere guaranteed
• Resident Rights: Ethical practices and protections enforced
• Grievance Process: Formal procedures for addressing concerns
• Accountability: Regular inspections ensure ongoing quality

For Healthcare Partners

• Trusted Referrals: Confidence in post-treatment housing quality
• Continuity of Care: Structured environments support outcomes
• Accountability: Certification ensures ongoing compliance
• Reduced Risk: Quality standards minimize concerns

Colorado State Context

Healthcare Landscape

Colorado’s uninsured rate dropped to 4.6% in 2023, highlighting increased demand for quality recovery services including housing. As more Coloradans access treatment, the need for certified recovery residences continues to grow.

Advocacy for Regulation

There is growing advocacy for mandatory certification of sober living homes in Colorado to address quality issues and ensure all recovery residences meet minimum standards. CAARR and NARR are actively involved in these discussions.

Integration with Healthcare

Recovery residences are increasingly viewed as a vital part of the continuum of care in Colorado, leading to more integrated approaches with primary care, mental health services, and formal addiction treatment.

Compliance Considerations

Key Federal Protections

• Fair Housing Act (FHA): Protects individuals in recovery from housing discrimination
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Ensures accessibility and accommodation
• HIPAA: Governs handling of any protected health information

State Requirements

Colorado recovery residence operators should:

• Stay informed about evolving state regulations
• Maintain proper business licensing
• Comply with local zoning requirements
• Follow building and fire safety codes

Best Practices Checklist

1. Regularly review NARR standards for updates
2. Ensure all staff are trained on ethical practices
3. Conduct internal audits for compliance
4. Maintain clear documentation for certification
5. Engage with the recovery community for feedback
6. Stay updated on legislative changes
7. Participate in advocacy efforts
8. Monitor resident feedback for improvements
9. Partner with other certified homes for peer support
10. Utilize technology to streamline compliance

Contact Information

Colorado Association of Recovery Residences (CAARR)

• NARR Affiliates Directory: narronline.org/affiliates
• About NARR: narronline.org/about
• NARR Certification Information: narronline.org/affiliates/certification

Managing Your CAARR-Certified Residence

Operating a certified recovery residence requires careful attention to documentation, compliance tracking, and resident management. Sober Living App provides comprehensive software designed specifically for recovery residence operators, helping you:

• Track resident progress and accountability measures
• Manage drug testing schedules and documentation
• Maintain compliance records for certification renewals
• Streamline billing and rent collection
• Generate reports for CAARR inspections

Related Resources

• How Easy Is It to Open a Sober Living Home in Colorado
• National Alliance for Recovery Residences
• NARR Standards
• NARR Certification Process

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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals for specific guidance related to recovery residences and certification requirements.

Last Updated: January 22, 2026