Weeks 1-2: Arrival & Stabilization

Evidence-Based Programs

At Northstar, we believe that meaningful change happens through education, structure, and support. Every program we offer is evidence-based and led by trained staff who are committed to empowering residents with essential life skills. Our goal is to address the root causes of homelessness and instability, offering a holistic approach to self-sufficiency.

• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) & Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Meetings – Many of our residents struggle with substance use, and we recognize that recovery is a journey that requires ongoing support. We provide access to AA and NA meetings, offering a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can share their experiences, receive guidance, and build a support network. These meetings emphasize accountability, coping strategies, and relapse prevention, helping participants maintain sobriety as they work toward rebuilding their lives.
  
  

• Life Skills Training – Many individuals experiencing homelessness face significant gaps in essential daily skills. Our life skills training covers a wide range of topics, including time management, meal planning, maintaining a household, and personal hygiene. By teaching these foundational skills, we help residents regain confidence in their ability to live independently and successfully manage their day-to-day responsibilities.
  
  

• Budgeting & Financial Literacy – Financial instability is a major barrier to long-term independence. Our budgeting and financial literacy program teaches residents how to track expenses, create a budget, save money, and make informed financial decisions. We emphasize the importance of credit building, avoiding predatory financial traps, and planning for future stability. Whether someone has never had a bank account or is trying to recover from financial hardship, we provide practical guidance to help them take control of their financial future.
  
  

• Grief Support – Many individuals experiencing homelessness have endured significant loss—whether it’s the death of a loved one, the loss of a home, or the breakdown of relationships. Our grief support program provides a structured space to process these losses in a healthy way. Through guided discussions, counseling, and peer support, residents learn coping mechanisms that allow them to work through their grief without resorting to unhealthy behaviors.
  
  

• Anger Management – Uncontrolled anger and frustration can be a major obstacle to maintaining employment, stable housing, and relationships. Our anger management program helps residents understand the root causes of their anger and teaches them effective techniques to regulate emotions, communicate constructively, and resolve conflicts in a healthy manner. By addressing these underlying issues, we support residents in developing better interpersonal skills and emotional resilience.
  
  

• 24/7 Dads Program – Many of our male residents are fathers who want to rebuild relationships with their children but may lack the tools or resources to do so. The 24/7 Dads program is designed to support fathers in becoming more engaged, responsible, and nurturing parents. Through a combination of group discussions and one-on-one coaching, participants learn about positive discipline, healthy communication, co-parenting strategies, and the importance of being a consistent presence in their children’s lives.
  
  

• Resume Building & Interview Skills – Gaining employment is a critical step toward independence. Our job readiness program helps residents craft professional resumes, practice interview techniques, and develop job search strategies. We provide guidance on workplace expectations, professional communication, and how to navigate challenges in maintaining employment. Our goal is to ensure that residents not only secure jobs but also retain them, leading to long-term financial stability.

Workforce Development & Job Training

At Northstar Navigation Center, we know that stable housing is only part of the equation—long-term success also requires meaningful employment. That’s why we offer a workforce development program that gives residents the opportunity to gain real-world job skills and industry-recognized certifications.

One of our most impactful programs is through DragonFly Café, a restaurant we own and operate, where residents can complete a six-week culinary training program. This hands-on experience allows them to earn a culinary certificate, preparing them for employment in restaurants, catering, or food service. Participants gain skills in food preparation, kitchen safety, customer service, and restaurant operations, providing a strong foundation for a career in the culinary industry.

In addition to culinary training, residents have the option to pursue career certifications through Feather River College’s Adult Reentry Programs. These include welding, secretarial training, and construction, offering multiple pathways to stable, well-paying jobs. We are actively working to expand these opportunities and are building partnerships to introduce a farming certificate program, which will equip residents with skills in agriculture, sustainability, and food production.

Another exciting opportunity in development is a summer apprenticeship program in partnership with Sierra Buttes Trail Stewardship, a local nonprofit. This program will provide hands-on training in trail building and conservation work, offering residents the chance to develop skills in outdoor labor, land stewardship, and environmental restoration—fields that align with both community needs and growing employment sectors.

By providing multiple career pathways, we ensure that every resident has the chance to find meaningful work, develop valuable skills, and build a future that extends far beyond their time at Northstar.

Staffing & Support

At Northstar Navigation Center, personalized support is key to long-term stability. Each resident is assigned both a case manager and a housing navigator, ensuring they receive comprehensive, one-on-one guidance throughout their stay. Case managers work closely with residents to address individual barriers, set achievable goals, and connect them with essential resources such as mental health services, employment opportunities, and substance use support. Meanwhile, housing navigators focus on the critical task of securing stable, long-term housing. They assist with everything from rental applications and landlord outreach to obtaining necessary documentation and navigating housing programs. With dedicated staff available 24/7, residents always have access to guidance and encouragement, reinforcing that they are not alone on their journey toward independence.

Timeline of a NorthStar Resident