Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program in Pennsylvania
Community and Academic Success
The Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program at Synergy was built to help young men stay grounded in recovery while pursuing their academic or professional goals.
Designed for clients who have already completed long-term treatment, either with Synergy, or through another program, this level of care bridges the gap between structured living and full independence.
Here, clients continue developing the habits, confidence, and accountability learned during their earlier treatment while adapting those skills to college life. Recovery remains the foundation, but education, purpose, and community become the next focus.
Building a Foundation for Independence
College can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially for men in recovery. Academic pressure, social environments, and the demands of independence can all increase stress, which studies show is a common relapse risk for college-age students in recovery.[1] The Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program provides the structure and peer support needed to navigate this transition with confidence.
Located in newly renovated housing near West Chester University, the program offers a college-like environment with flexible guidelines that promote accountability and independence. Clients are encouraged to maintain their routines, manage their time, and continue practicing healthy coping strategies in real-world settings.
Community and Connection
Synergy’s community is at the heart of every program. In the Collegiate Recovery Program, men find a strong sense of brotherhood and shared purpose. Group meetings, mentorship opportunities, and access to 12-step programs help clients stay connected to others who understand the realities of young adult recovery, a connection shown in research to reduce relapse rates and strengthen long-term outcomes.[2]
This sense of belonging extends beyond graduation—many Collegiate clients continue as mentors for newer residents, offering guidance and encouragement as part of Synergy’s ongoing alumni network. The Collegiate environment creates a full-circle experience, where recovery, growth, and leadership all build on one another.
Academic and Personal Development
Clients in the Collegiate Program can receive individualized case management to support their academic goals alongside their recovery plans. Augmented case management services can assist with course selection, scheduling, and connection to campus resources. Many clients in the Collegiate Program find success without augmented case management services. For those who haven’t yet enrolled, Synergy provides guidance on finding the right college or transfer program to fit their goals and recovery lifestyle.
Each client’s experience is shaped around long-term success—academically, emotionally, and personally. The program encourages responsibility, consistent communication, and self-awareness as part of lasting recovery. Since its inception, men in the Collegiate Program have maintained an average GPA of 3.23, reflecting their focus and commitment to both recovery and education.
Program Features and Services
The Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program offers a full suite of services that promote independence and accountability while maintaining access to clinical care and community support:
- On-site House Manager providing daily oversight and steady guidance
- Voluntary access and engagement in Men’s Flagship activities and community connections, including sports teams, structured activities, and other community-based opportunities.
- Weekly drug and alcohol testing to support consistency and transparency
- 12-step community involvement that reinforces connection and responsibility
- Independent meal planning and preparation to build practical life skills
- Mentorship opportunities through Synergy’s alumni and peer network
Each client’s plan changes as they do, adjusting to their progress while keeping the steady structure that supports recovery.
Who the Collegiate Program Is For
The Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program is best suited for:
- Clients who have completed Synergy’s Flagship Program or another long-term treatment program at another facility.
- College students or recent graduates maintaining recovery
- Men who benefit from accountability, structure, and peer connection
- Those who want to stay active in their education and personal development while prioritizing their recovery
Whether they’re studying at West Chester University or another local school, men in the Collegiate Program find a community that understands recovery and helps them keep growing in everyday life.
Continue Your Growth with Synergy
Recovery isn’t a finish line, it’s the start of something real. Every next step takes focus, effort, and the right kind of support. If you’re ready to keep moving forward, reach out to Synergy.
The Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program is a space where structure and community come together to help you stay grounded while building the life you want. Our team walks alongside you as you find your footing, take on new challenges, and keep growing at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Men’s Collegiate Recovery Program
Who is the Men’s Collegiate Program designed for?
This program is for men who have completed long-term treatment, either at Synergy or another recovery program, and are ready to take the next step toward independence. It’s best suited for college students, recent graduates, or young men looking to maintain structure and accountability while continuing their education or starting their careers.
Do I need to be in college to join?
Not necessarily. Many clients are students, but some are preparing to enroll or exploring work and training opportunities. Our Case Management team helps each client create a plan that fits their recovery goals and future path—whether that means school, work, or personal development.
What kind of support will I have while I’m in the program?
You’ll have consistent guidance from Synergy’s clinical and support teams, including weekly check-ins, case management, and access to mentorship through our alumni network. Daily routines, peer accountability, and steady structure help you stay focused on recovery while building real-life skills.
How long do clients usually stay in the Collegiate Program?
Length of stay depends on personal goals and progress. Most clients participate for several months as they gain independence, rebuild routines, and develop confidence balancing recovery with daily responsibilities. The program is flexible, adjusting as clients grow and take on new challenges.
How is the Men’s Collegiate Program different from the Men’s Flagship Program?
The Flagship Program offers a higher level of structure and supervision, often for men in earlier stages of recovery. The Collegiate Program is the next step—more independent but still connected. It gives clients the freedom to live, learn, and work in the real world while maintaining steady support from the Synergy community.
Sources
[1] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2019). A Day in the Life of College Students Aged 18 to 22: Substance Use Facts. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/report_2361/ShortReport-2361.pdf
[2] Kelly, J. F., & Hoeppner, B. B. (2013). Does Alcoholics Anonymous work differently for men and women? A moderated multiple mediation analysis in a large clinical sample. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 130(1–3), 186–193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2012.11.005
