Social margin and social reentry: an evaluation of a rehabilitation program for Skid Row alcoholics.

A rehabilitation program for Skid Row alcoholics that focuses on the reentry process and the development of "social margin" is evaluated. A unique component of the treatment program is the use of small teams of volunteer sponsors who assist the client in the recovery and reentry process. Using a number of measures, the program obtained approximately a 50% abstinent rate at follow-up. There were also significant gains in employment and monthly income. The program also influenced family contact, development of new friendship groups and Alcoholics Anonymous attendance, factors that in turn significantly influenced the recovery process.