The Wells County Chamber of Commerce recently joined community members, supporters, and volunteers to celebrate a ribbon-cutting for The Resilient House, a new recovery residence dedicated to helping men rebuild their lives after incarceration and addiction. Located at 310 W. Central Avenue in Bluffton, the home represents a vision of restoration, accountability, and community support.
The idea for The Resilient House grew out of a deeply personal journey. Founder Andy Yergler shared how his own recovery experience—and the people who walked alongside him—helped shape the mission of the home. Over the years, mentors and friends consistently showed up during some of the most difficult seasons of his life.
Reflecting on those moments, Yergler explained that the message behind the house is simple but powerful: what we do today matters. “There were people in my life who never gave up on me,” he shared. “They stayed with me through the hardest seasons. The choices people made years ago to support me helped create what you see here today.”
Throughout his remarks, Yergler highlighted individuals who played key roles in his recovery—mentors who offered accountability, friends who showed up during difficult moments, and community members who believed change was possible even when circumstances suggested otherwise. Those experiences inspired him to create a space where other men could receive the same kind of support and encouragement.
The Resilient House was created as a structured recovery environment where men can begin rebuilding their lives after incarceration. The home can accommodate eight residents and one house manager, providing a stable and supportive setting where individuals can rest, heal, and begin establishing new routines. “This house is about healing,” Yergler said. “Incarceration is a traumatizing experience, and sometimes people just need a place where they can rest for a few weeks and begin rebuilding.”
The program is designed to help residents reconnect with the community while building a strong foundation for long-term success. Participants are encouraged to secure employment, connect with local churches, and actively engage in community life. Throughout their time in the home, residents take part in activities such as volunteering, attending local events, exercising at the YMCA, and assisting with service projects around town—helping them develop healthy routines and meaningful connections.
Over the course of the nine-month program, residents gradually build structure and stability through work, mentorship, faith, and service. The goal is to ensure that when they complete the program, they leave with established relationships, practical life skills, and a support system that will continue long after their time in the house. As Yergler explained, “We’re trying to help them put down roots. When they leave here after the program, the only thing that changes is where they lay their head at night.”
Community support has been instrumental in making The Resilient House possible. Local volunteers, businesses, and organizations have contributed in many ways—from providing financial support and household supplies to offering mentorship and job opportunities. “The community has embraced this,” Yergler said. “It’s not just about financial support. People are showing up, mentoring the guys, helping with financial classes, and creating opportunities. This is truly a community effort.”
Ultimately, The Resilient House's mission is centered on transformation and hope. As the organization’s message states, a man is not born resilient—he is built. Through accountability, encouragement, and strong community connections, the program seeks to help each resident build a new future.
If you would like to learn more about The Resilient House, visit their website at www.theresilienthouse.com. Those interested in supporting the mission, volunteering, or learning more about the program can reach out to Andy Yergler at theresilienthouse2025@gmail.com.
Pictured cutting the ribbon, from left to right, are Board Members Josh Barkley, Lane Sander, Chris Honegger, and Doug Johnson; Andy Yergler, Founder of The Resilient House; and residents Nolan Crump, Malekhi Skiles, and Ryan King. They are joined by dedicated volunteers and surrounded by Wells County Chamber Ambassadors and community supporters.
Please view more photos from the event on our Facebook page.