About

We create a safe space for people in recovery from alcohol and other substance abuse to learn, heal, and prepare for a lifetime of sobriety.

Eau Claire Sober Living (ECSL) is a substance-free, live-in community, that provides a safe and supportive environment for those seeking recovery. ECSL guides its residents through transformation, borne from a neuroscience-based recovery model, connection, healthy-living, and renewed self-awareness.

Regardless of the addictive behavior, ECSL can help. We believe recovery paradigms are unique to individual needs. ECSL works with residents to create a specialized program of transformation and recovery within our sober-living communities.

ECSL knows that healing takes community, shared experience, and common goals to create a lifestyle that supports a lifetime of recovery.

RECOVERY STORY, by Senator Jesse James

This week I had the privilege of touring Eau Claire Sober Living and meeting Sarah, who had a meth addiction for 25 years. The meth on her hands used to cause eye infections so severe that she had to have her eyelids sewn shut.

Today, Sarah is sober, approved to become a peer counselor, reunited with her family (she is a great-grandmother!) and can see again after surgery. "I'm a miracle," she told us.

This was only one of the amazing stories that touched my heart as organization owner Michelle Markquart gave us a tour and shared about their success rate.

HOW do they succeed? Michelle shared that the ladies are provided with a sober environment and lift each other up. For some, this is the first safe place they have ever known. One former resident shared that before moving in, she used to intentionally go to jail because she knew it was a place she could detox and be protected.

They require the ladies to stay busy, attend meetings, and pursue healing. They don't do everything for the women, but give them RESOURCES for therapy, employment, transportation, and healing. Some learn to trust other women in friendship for the first time. They maintain open access to family and children for connection.

This was one of the most impactful visits I have had as a legislator. People in the Chippewa Valley are struggling with more than we can see, carrying all kinds of addictions and burdens. This is an awesome organization, and we need more of this in our area. Thank you to Michelle and the team for having me.

Senator Jesse James, May 22, 2024