Program

WE ARE LOCATED IN LAITSE, HARJU COUNTY

LIFE RESTORATION PROGRAM 10-12 MONTHS

FOR MEN AND WOMEN

History of the Village of Hope

In 2000, Bishop Märt Vähi felt a calling in his heart to help people struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. Märt handed over all his church duties and began building a rehabilitation center named “Village of Hope” in the Laitse forest. His son, Andrew Vähi, who had his own experiences with addiction, launched a strong and effective program he completed in Florida at the Dunklin Memorial Church. In 2007, Andrew Vähi and his family established a new center in New Brunswick, Canada, where a similar center, Village of Hope, operates today.
In 2003, a construction trailer was brought to the Laitse forest, marking the start of the initial program. In this humble trailer, the first three participants lived and completed their initial program. This simple beginning signified a crucial turning point, as the program has grown and expanded since then, providing support and opportunities to many people in need of guidance and help.

Family Principles

Rules, discipline, and a strict daily schedule are important because they create structure and order in everyday life. Rules provide guidance and help avoid confusion, discipline teaches responsibility and determination, and a schedule gives a steady rhythm to plan activities. These elements are necessary for managing time and resources better, preventing stress and uncertainty.

However, no rule or discipline works effectively without a strong human connection. Relationships based on respect, care, attention, and trust are vital in any community or family. Respect fosters mutual understanding, care shows that the well-being of others is important, and attention helps to understand people’s needs. Trust binds these values together, creating an environment where people feel valued and supported, which is the foundation of successful cooperation and togetherness.

Living Conditions

Good living conditions: warmth,
cleanliness, and comfort.

Good living conditions are a crucial part of quality of life, as they create a safe and healthy environment where one can feel comfortable and focus on daily activities. Warmth, cleanliness, and comfort are the foundation – a warm and cozy living space ensures physical well-being, while a clean and tidy environment reduces stress and the risk of illness. These conditions lay the groundwork for a peaceful and balanced life, also providing an opportunity to rest and recover.

Access to clothes and essential supplies.

In addition to comfort, it is crucial that people have access to necessary everyday items, such as clothing and other essential supplies. Having clothing and personal items ensures dignity and the ability to manage everyday life. It is also important to maintain order and personal hygiene, which helps preserve health and overall well-being. A tidy and clean living environment gives people a sense that they can control and positively shape their lives.

Nutrition

“Good Food Three Times a Day”

Our local kitchen team ensures a healthy and delicious selection of food at every meal. We offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared with care to be both filling and tasty. Our menu is balanced and considers different dietary needs, so all our guests can enjoy a satisfying and enriching food experience.

Coffee Corner and Shop Access

Additionally, each room has its own coffee corner, where guests can enjoy freshly brewed coffee or tea at any time. If needed, there is also a nearby local store where guests can replenish supplies or buy additional items they may want.

Medical Assistance

On-site medical assistance is of a high standard and ensures all necessary services to support people’s health and well-being. Our approach is focused on safety and holistic recovery, so we do not use antidepressants, methadone, or other medications that can cause addiction. We are committed to maintaining and treating each individual’s health, using natural and non-addictive methods. If needed, we consult with doctors to provide professional healthcare, and we certainly do not neglect chronic conditions, offering appropriate care and treatment.

Sports and Leisure

We have excellent facilities for sports and maintaining good physical shape, offering a variety of activities that contribute to both body and mind health. Additionally, every week there’s a local sauna session, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and unwind. We also value family relationships and a supportive community – every Sunday, family members and relatives have the opportunity to visit, spending time together and strengthening bonds, which is crucial for quality of life and mental well-being.

Training and Psychological Assistance

Classes take place every weekday, providing a continuous and structured learning environment where participants can actively develop their knowledge and skills. The work is carried out in small groups, allowing for a more personalized approach and individual attention. Additionally, the learning process includes homework and a wealth of study materials that support independent learning and further development. We also offer individual counseling to help participants find their personal path and solve specific issues.

Our goal is to work on participants’ thinking, character, and habits, helping them create positive changes and establish lasting lifestyle habits. We delve into the symptoms and behavior patterns of addiction to help participants better understand the underlying reasons for their addiction. We also focus heavily on emotions and feelings – giving particular attention to internal wounds that may be associated with addiction, aiding people in working through and healing these topics, both physically and emotionally.

Financial Aspect

Our center works closely and constructively with several key organizations and institutions to provide our clients with the best possible support and assistance. We partner with the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, which helps people find new job opportunities and supports them in returning to the labor market. We also collaborate with social departments and local governments to offer comprehensive social support and address complex situations that may require broader community involvement.

Our network of partners also includes debt counselors who assist people facing financial difficulties. They provide practical advice and solutions for managing debts and resolving financial issues.

It is important to note that the Village of Hope is not intended as a source of income. Our goal is not financial gain but to support people and improve their lives. The center’s activities and opportunities are aimed at recovery, spiritual and personal growth, not at making a profit.

• SAWMILL
• CONSTRUCTION WORK
• AUTO REPAIR SHOP
• KITCHEN WORK
• PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Work

Our center does not operate based on traditional work therapy principles but offers a structured workday that lasts 5 hours a day. This provides participants with the opportunity to balance work and rest, while focusing on developing their skills. Our goal is to help people acquire practical work skills and foster a strong work ethic, which are essential for successful career life and starting an independent life. No separate payment is provided for work done at the Village of Hope, as it is part of the program.

Work opportunities at the center are diverse and include areas such as sawmill work, construction, auto repair, kitchen work, and property maintenance. These fields offer participants the chance to learn various manual skills and work processes, which can be valuable in future job searches as well as in everyday life.

After successfully completing the program, participants have the opportunity to use the skills and experiences they have gained in the job market, working outside the center. This opens new opportunities for them to start independent work life, relying on the strong work ethic and practical skills they acquired at the center.