FIRST at Blue Ridge, Inc., is a long-term residential, therapeutic, treatment program for individuals with chronic substance abuse problems. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease and is many times accompanied by mental and emotional difficulties and other behavioral problems that may or may not be the direct result of the addiction. The program's mission is to provide opportunity, guidance, and education to those with addictions and assist them to make positive life changes, in order to become responsible and productive members of society.