Perception Programs, Inc.

Next Step : Residential

Policies

The following policies are in effect during residence at Next Step:

• Stealing or destroying house or residents' property is prohibited. It is important that residents respect the rights of everyone in the house.
• Residents are responsible for letting staff know their whereabouts at all times. This includes following their daily plan, signing in and out correctly, getting staff approval before any change of plans, and returning on time.
• There is no smoking inside the house, on the grounds or in company vehicles.
• Residents are expected to keep personal areas clean and neat. All residents will share in keeping the house clean. The house and personal belongings may be inspected by staff at any time. If contraband is found, it will be taken and the resident will be subject to disciplinary action or dismissal. Staff and residents may confiscate items left around inappropriately. Residents must negotiate with staff members to have the item(s) returned.
• Upon entering the house, the new resident will be assigned to a "buddy" (older resident) who will help her with orientation to the program.
• Upon entering the house, each resident will be assigned to a chore team. Each chore team has a crew chief. The crew chief position rotates between residents every four weeks. Residents are responsible for doing their chores daily. The assignments rotate regularly.
• Residents are expected to follow the house schedule unless excused by their primary counselor.
• All visitors must have DOC approval. No visitors are allowed on the second floor or in the basement. Visits are on Sunday for a total of 2 hours.
• The public telephone is to be used for business and personal calls. Out of consideration to other residents, there is a 10-minute limit to telephone calls. Residents must get staff permission to use the office phone and are expected to pay for any long distance calls.
• Radios and stereos must be turned down between 11PM and 7AM. The television is off from 12AM-5PM. No television, radios or headphones until 5PM.
• Residents should be familiar with the fire extinguishers, their purposes, and the fire exits. Fire drills will be held monthly.