ABOUT

The AZ House is a nonprofit residential recovery program for men struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Located in Jerusalem, Israel, AZ House offers a structured, supportive environment where residents can build a foundation for long-term recovery—free of financial burden.

Founded by Eric Levitz in response to the high cost of treatment often faced by families in crisis, AZ House operates on a scholarship-based model. Through annual fundraising, the program can provide comprehensive care to residents or their families at no charge.

Our Approach

AZ House combines the proven principles of the 12-Step Program, therapeutic community living, and life-skills development. We provide a safe, respectful, and purpose-driven environment where men can focus solely on their recovery and personal growth.

Our residents come from various backgrounds, including many from Jewish communities worldwide. While AZ House is sensitive to the needs of religiously observant individuals—offering a kosher, Shabbat-friendly environment—our program is open to all men, regardless of religious practice or affiliation. Our primary focus is on recovery.

Program Overview

The AZ House recovery journey is structured in three progressive phases:

Phase 1: Foundation Building

• Focus solely on recovery with limited outside contact.
• Daily 12-step meetings, group therapy, and community living.
• No personal cell phones or unsupervised activities.
• Residents learn accountability, self-discipline, and teamwork.

Phase 2: Reintegration & Job Readiness

• Begin seeking employment while maintaining program responsibilities.
• Access to a phone for work-related purposes.
• Participation in life-skills groups, job coaching, and community support.
• Continued focus on completing the 12 Steps.
• Transition to greater independence while remaining connected to the house.

Phase 3: Independent Living Support

• Live semi-independently while maintaining a supportive connection to AZ House.
• Access to personal devices, work, and social activities.
• Opportunity to mentor newer residents.
• Development of a personal exit and aftercare plan.
• Residents may stay as long as needed to ensure a stable transition.

Program Length

The program typically spans nine months, beginning with intensive residential care and progressing toward independent living with continued community support.

Cost of Treatment

AZ House operates 100% on donations, allowing us to provide free treatment to all who qualify. We believe that recovery should never come at the cost of financial hardship.

Our Community & Facility

AZ House is located in a quiet villa in the Pisgat Ze’ev neighborhood of Jerusalem. The facility includes comfortable living spaces, a garden, a workout area, and community spaces that support reflection, growth, and fellowship.

Our Mission

AZ House provides a safe, affordable, and effective path to long-term recovery. We empower men to rebuild their lives with dignity—free from addiction—while becoming productive, self-sufficient members of society.

Our Story

AZ House is modeled after the therapeutic community approach developed by Jack Mulhall in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1991. Inspired by the success of Freedom House and other similar programs, AZ House opened its doors in 2016 in memory of Avrohom Ze’ev Olive, a young man whose life was tragically lost to addiction. Our program carries Jack’s vision: anyone seeking recovery deserves the opportunity, regardless of their financial situation.

Our Values

• Self-Discipline
• Community
• Gratitude
• Willingness