Having struggled with his own sobriety, Ojibwe tribe member Juel Fairbanks Sr. had a dream to open a halfway house for Native American men. The Cass Lake, Minnesota native shared his vision with fellow Alcoholics Anonymous members, including Edward LaFromboise, who also believed that this type of program would speed the recovery process.

In 1970, they began meeting with others in the community about creating this culturally specific treatment and support program. Support grew for Juel Fairbanks Aftercare Residence. Unfortunately, Juel died before he could realize his dream. In his honor, Edward continued the work they began. On December 4, 1973, the first client was admitted to Juel Fairbanks Aftercare Residence. Juel Fairbanks Aftercare Residence operated as a Halfway House for Native American Men. Edward LaFromboise served as the first director of the program until his death in 1977.

Over the years, the program evolved into much more. In 1976, the residential program became co-ed and began serving other underserved populations, ages 16 and up. In 1979, the outpatient program was added. In 1991, Juel Fairbanks started to offer chemical health assessments in Ramsey County.

Today, Juel Fairbanks Aftercare Residence, now operating as Juel Fairbanks Recovery Services, has become known for its strength in serving Native Americans and other underserved men. Through our residential, outpatient, and group residential housing services Juel Fairbanks is working to make a lasting impact in the substance use disorder field.