The Gambit Recovery Approach: Redefining What Sober Living Can Be
When most people think of sober living homes, they picture a roof over your head, a set of house rules, and not much else. That might keep someone dry for a while, but it doesn’t necessarily create a better life. At Gambit Recovery, we believe sobriety is just the starting line—not the finish line.
A Model Born from Experience, Not a Boardroom
Founder Tom Fay has spent over 14 years opening and operating sober living programs across the United States. In that time, he’s spoken with thousands of people in recovery—listening to what they wanted, what they needed, and what was missing from their experiences.
What he heard again and again was that many recovery housing programs had lost sight of their purpose. The industry had too often become transactional, overlooking the human element. Out of those conversations came an original sober living model—one built on affordability, comfort, and ethics.
With no financial backers, Tom partnered with Nathan Mitchell—his former roommate in sober living back in 2010—to launch Gambit Recovery. Their mission wasn’t just to help people stop using substances. It was to give residents the tools, structure, and community-driven support to build a life they wouldn’t want to escape from.
Sobriety Is the Entry Point—Not the Whole Game
At Gambit Recovery, sobriety is the prerequisite to move in, but it’s only a small fraction of what keeps someone here. Residents are expected to better themselves so they can better the lives of those around them.
We measure success by more than just abstinence:
Showing up for work or school
Building healthy routines and relationships
Contributing to the community beyond your front door
This is the best sober living program for people who want transformation, not just time away from substances.
From One House to Four States in Under a Year
The first Gambit Recovery home filled quickly. Then came a second. Then ten. Word spread, and soon we were getting calls from people in other states asking us to open there. Within our first year, Gambit Recovery expanded into Arizona, Los Angeles, Missouri, and Washington.
Our growth hasn’t been fueled by marketing gimmicks or big investors—it’s been driven by results. When you create a new sober living model that works, people notice.
The Four Pillars That Redefine Sober Living
Structure – A clear set of expectations, routines, and accountability measures that create stability and momentum in recovery.
Opportunity – Access to employment resources, education, and life skills that open doors for the future.
Community – A culture where residents show up for each other, celebrate milestones, and form lifelong friendships.
Purpose – Helping residents discover and work toward goals that make life meaningful beyond sobriety.
Sober Living Homes in Arizona: Gilbert and Chandler
Our Arizona sober living homes in Gilbert and Chandler are where it all began. These houses offer a structured yet supportive environment surrounded by a vibrant recovery community.
We’ve built strong partnerships with Hope For The Homeless, Andre House, and the City of Chandler, giving our residents opportunities to volunteer, connect, and give back. From serving meals to those in need to participating in city-wide service projects, our Arizona residents don’t just live here—they actively contribute to the community.
Sober Living in Washington: Poulsbo
Our Poulsbo sober living program brings Gambit Recovery’s structure and community-driven approach to the Pacific Northwest. Nestled in the scenic Kitsap Peninsula, this home offers access to nature, small-town charm, and tight-knit recovery resources.
We’ve partnered with the Poulsbo City Council and the North Kitsap Recovery Resource Center to connect residents with local support networks. In addition, our relationship with Watson Furniture provides employment opportunities, helping residents gain stability and independence while in sober living.
Sober Living in Missouri: Florissant and St. Charles
In Missouri, we operate homes in Florissant and St. Charles, two communities with deep recovery roots. Our residents actively give back by volunteering at local AA meeting halls, helping maintain the spaces that support countless people in their recovery journey.
We’ve also partnered with American Staffing, creating a direct path for residents to find work and build a financial foundation for their new lives. This blend of community service and employment opportunities makes our Missouri sober living homes a strong launchpad for long-term success.
Sober Living in California: Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, Gambit Recovery brings its mission to one of the most diverse and challenging recovery landscapes in the country. Our residents here not only focus on personal growth and accountability but also participate in meaningful outreach with Feed The Streets, a nonprofit dedicated to helping those experiencing homelessness.
By combining structured sober living with hands-on community service, our LA residents develop empathy, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of purpose—qualities that make sobriety sustainable for the long haul.
Why Gambit Recovery Works
We’re not a “halfway house.” We’re a community-driven recovery housing program designed to launch people into a better version of themselves. The key is simple: focus on improving quality of life in every area—finances, relationships, purpose—while maintaining the foundation of sobriety.
That’s how Gambit Recovery is redefining what sober living can be. And we’re just getting started.
Reach out today to become part of the Gambit Recovery community.
