"FIRST at Blue Ridge logo featuring the words education, therapeutic life skills, aftercare, and technical vocational training, reflecting a comprehensive approach to recovery.

FIRST History



 Established in 1991, FIRST at Blue Ridge, Inc. began as the Forsyth Initiative for Residential Self-Help Treatment (F.I.R.S.T). The name reflects the program’s foundational mission: to provide structured, peer-led support and therapeutic services for individuals striving to overcome Substance Use Disorders (SUD). Over time, the program grew, relocated, and evolved into the comprehensive recovery community it is today while staying true to its original vision of empowering individuals through self-help and accountability.

Now located in Ridgecrest, North Carolina, just east of Asheville along Interstate 40, FIRST at Blue Ridge has become a trusted resource for substance use treatment in the region. Governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, FIRST is a licensed nonprofit therapeutic community offering a wide range of services to individuals seeking long-term recovery.

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A Comprehensive Recovery Campus

The FIRST campus is designed to support clients at every stage of their recovery journey. It includes a five-story residential building for men, with a capacity of 85 beds, and a separate 65-bed facility for women. In addition, the campus features various administrative, clinical, and transitional housing facilities. Each transitional residence is self-contained and provides a structured, supportive environment for residents who have completed their specific program curriculum. These homes offer clients the stability and resources they need to prepare for independent living.

The FIRST at Blue Ridge logo features a circular design often incorporating elements that reflect strength, growth, and recovery. It symbolizes the organization’s commitment to providing a supportive therapeutic community for individuals overcoming substance use disorders.

FIRST at Blue Ridge is a North Carolina-licensed, peer-led therapeutic community dedicated to assisting individuals with chronic substance use disorders. Their mission is to provide opportunities, guidance, and education to help individuals make positive life changes and become responsible, productive members of society.

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32 Knox Rd. Ridgecrest, NC 28770

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FIRST at Blue Ridge Inc. - A State of North Carolina Licensed Therapeutic Community - MHL #011-264 © 2024

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