After decades of service, WCCJ/Women At Risk has purchased 218 Patton Avenue. Designed in 1904 by the gifted architect Richard Sharp Smith, the Mrs. Minnie Alexander Cottage is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s considered a robust and mature example of Smith’s “Old English” style.

It’s also — for many reasons — the ideal building for what we do.

Success and Sustainability

Almost 90% success rate for Women At Risk graduates is no accident.  Since we’ve moved to 218 Patton Ave., we have doubled the number of clients we serve and tripled the number of treatment groups. In December, 2001, WCCJ/Women At Risk was licensed by the state of NC as an outpatient substance abuse treatment program. The safe and nurturing environment of this house eliminates the fear and intimidation factors of more institutional settings and facilitates healing and recovery.

Prioritizing Resources

This permanent home for our programs  allows us to redirect rental monies toward client programs and services, and enhance our financial viability.

Building Community

Both internally and externally, our community base is better served by our downtown location, which is accessible by bus line and sits within walking distance of homeless shelters and other social services agencies.

Service Learning

Our unique programs have created innovative opportunities for service learning, community involvement, and hands-on experience and  training for students at area colleges, including UNC-Asheville, Mars Hill, and Warren Wilson.

Saving Tax dollars

Cost studies have shown that Women At Risk program saves the state (and the taxpayer) about $40 per client for every day she is not in prison.

Women Helping Women

The support our clients receive from professional staff, graduates, and each other is critical to the success of Women At Risk. The home-like setting at 218 Patton Ave. allows children to play while mothers attend sessions. The shared life experiences, from parenting tips to mentoring, give women the type of family support and encouragement they have so often missed.

Donor Information

All donors of who contributed $500 and above to the purchase of 218 Patton Ave is permanently acknowledged on a wall plaque within the building.