The Basics
Founded by Rose Zigman in 2010, Our Odyssey is a small co-ed sober living home located on a quiet residential street in Palmdale, California. Zigman, whose sobriety date is April 11, 1975, purchased the property because she wanted to be of service to recovering alcoholics and addicts in the Antelope Valley desert, an area that has a much demand for safe sober living. The house was named “Our Odyssey” in keeping with Zigman’s belief that “life is a journey” and should be taken one day at a time.
Accommodations and Amenities
When Zigman first acquired the property, the house was trashed. With the help of local AA members, the house was cleaned and since 2010, has undergone a complete renovation. The rose-colored single-family residence has dark red trim and a small front yard with a tree. The private backyard has a rustic quality and includes huge trees that provide ample shade. There is a covered patio with chairs and a table. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas.
Our Odyssey accommodates six clients, who are paired in gender-specific rooms furnished with ample closet space, a TV and dressers. One room has a bunk bed, while the other two rooms have twin beds. At times, there is one private room available. Bedding includes thick comforters, pillows and fresh linens. The furniture is a cross between antique and modern. The living room includes a pink velvet armchair, an antique hutch, a comfortable couch and a cuckoo clock. The red-walled dining room has an immense granite top table, black chairs and a chandelier.
Residents are responsible for their own groceries and meal preparation. In addition to a fully equipped kitchen, the outside BBQ is available for cooking. Coffee, cream and sugar are provided. Amenities include in-room Cable TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, washer, dryer and all utilities.
Zigman, who is the house manager, lives on the property. Our Odyssey is within walking distance of Superior Markets, the 99 Cents Store, Goodwill, restaurants and public transportation. Additionally, Our Odyssey is within close proximity to the Palmdale AA Group.
Rules and Regulations
Prospective residents must see the property and meet with Zigman to ensure that Our Odyssey is a suitable fit. Zigman looks for clients who are committed to staying clean and sober by working a spiritual program, and who want to change their lives. Zigman takes on people at any stage of sobriety, preferably those who have already undergone detox.
Clients must obtain and actively work with a sponsor. Other requirements include working steps one to nine in the first 90 days, followed by working steps ten to 12. Employed residents must attend between three and four weekly 12-step meetings, while those without jobs must complete 90 meetings in 90 days. Household chores are assigned on a weekly basis. All residents must clean up after themselves. Visitors are just allowed in common areas, and only when another resident or Zigman is present.
While Zigman does not conduct random drug or alcohol testing, she says that she can sense suspicious behavior in residents who are at risk for relapse. Suspected residents undergo drug and alcohol testing, at their own cost, which ranges between eight and 12 dollars per test. At Our Odyssey, there is a zero tolerance policy for those who relapse or steal. Clients are asked to be home by 11 pm, seven days a week. This cut off time is not a curfew, but rather a “guideline” since some clients attend AA meetings late at night. Residents running late are asked to notify Zigman by phone.
Zigman acts as spiritual mentor and coaches residents on goal setting and life skills. She is a Colorado state certified drug counselor who worked as a counselor at Washington House in Commerce City between 1984 and 1999, followed by founding The Odyssey in Denver, a drug rehab that was in operation between 1994 and 1999. The 30-day cost for a double is $375, while a single is $400.
Extras
Our Odyssey is pet-friendly, with some restrictions. Zigman believes that the bond between a pet owner and a pet is healing to a client’s recovery. She conducts a pet interview, to ensure that the beloved canine or feline gets along with the household.
The 3 pm New Beginning AA meeting on Saturdays at Our Odyssey will be open in the near future. Our Odyssey is also a member of the sober living network.
In Summary
Our Odyssey is a labor of love on the part of Zigman, who is passionate about AA and is committed to helping her residents rebuild their lives. As an old timer, she offers support and guidance and knows the local AA/NA circuit well. For men and women who are seeking a spiritual awakening in their recovery, Our Odyssey is the perfect place.
Our Odyssey
1532 East Avenue R4
Palmdale, CA 93550
Our Odyssey Cost: $375-$400 (30 days). Reach Our Odyssey by phone at (913) 486-3478 or (661) 480-6371. Find Our Odyssey on Google+
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Sponsored DISCLAIMER: This is a paid advertisement for California Behavioral Health, LLC, a CA licensed substance abuse treatment provider and not a service provided by The Fix. Calls to this number are answered by CBH, free and without obligation to the consumer. No one who answers the call receives a fee based upon the consumer’s choice to enter treatment. For additional info on other treatment providers and options visit www.samhsa.gov.
