"We created something that didn't exist in Denver, an opportunity for homeless youth to get treatment and housing at the same time," said Jamie VanLeeuwen, program director at Urban Peak, a full service agency providing a continuum of services that range from street outreach to housing.

STAR (Starting Treatment and Recovery) launched November 2002. It is based on a program for older cocaine addicts developed at the University of Alabama. The participants live in a 17-unit apartment house in the city's Capitol Hill area. Eventually, the house will have sixteen residents.

Adam Brickner, Demand Treatment! Leader was part of the team that conceived the project, along with City Councilwoman Elbra Wedgeworth, the Addiction Research and Treatment Service, Denver Human Services, Denver Health Medical Center, and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division.

For more information on STAR, please contact Adam Brickner at adam.brickner@dhs.co.denver.co.us or 720-944-2972.