As a program of the Salt Lake Chamber Foundation, Utah Community Builders spotlights one organization each month that’s making a meaningful difference in the community. The initiative supports the Foundation’s mission to engage Utah’s business community in addressing key issues that strengthen the state’s workforce.
Since 1958, First Step House has been helping people in Utah build lives full of purpose, meaning and recovery. Each year, they support more than 1,700 individuals in the Salt Lake Valley with treatment, housing and wraparound services. Their programs serve people experiencing homelessness, those reentering the community after incarceration and anyone facing substance use or mental health challenges.
Development Director Mary T. Calhoon says the heart of First Step House is about giving people a chance. “We want people to achieve as much independence as they can and truly thrive — to maintain their recovery and live a healthy, connected, meaningful life,” she explains.
That mission comes to life through programs that address the whole person, not just a single challenge. From residential and outpatient treatment to long-term recovery programs and housing support, including a program just for veterans, First Step House focuses on long-term stability.
“Many of the people we serve are navigating homelessness, serious behavioral health conditions and long histories of instability at the same time,” Calhoon explains. “Addressing any one of those issues isolation doesn’t work. Housing, healthcare and recovery support have to move together.”
In the coming years, First Step House plans to significantly expand both deeply affordable housing and integrated healthcare. “By 2030, we will open four more apartment buildings while expanding healthcare to reach more vulnerable people in our community,” Calhoon shares.
Through all of these efforts, First Step House continues to make a meaningful difference in Utah, helping countless individuals rebuild their lives, remain housed and create brighter futures.
First Step House works closely with the business community, foundations and philanthropists. Learn more about their work and get involved on their website at firststephouse.org.
