A beautiful foundation was built approximately 1911 to 1912 by a prominent Omaha attorney. The house remained in the family for years. As time passed a local Episcopalian Church used the home to housed mentally challenged women in a community living environment as well as a rectory until such time that Santa Monica was founded in 1972. The home was leased for their program until being purchased in 1976 for approximately $53,000.00 by the non-profit organization.

Located in the Gold Coast neighbourhood this foundation displays a brick, three-story home with stained glass windows, boasting all original wood-work throughout. French doors encase the front room and a grand staircase leads to the third floor. Necessary renovations have been made to accommodate the growing needs of the program while maintaining the integrity of the home.

In August of 1972 Bill Crooks, Director of Eppley Chemical Dependency Services, planted a seed that germinated with enthusiasm. Sally Holmquist and Nelle Linder were instrumental in developing a caring, comprehensive Halfway House program for women. The first of it's kind in the Omaha area.

October 12, 1972 the first Board meeting, consisting of 12 members, was held. John Kenefick, President of Union Pacific Railroad, donated $10,000 for start up costs.

December 18, 1972 the first two residents moved into Santa Monica. Since it's founding Santa Monica has grown and flourished with the assistance of the community, a dedicated staff and Board of Directors who recognized the need for gender competent substance use programs.

Today, Santa Monica offers a gender specific Halfway House program. Services offered by Santa Monica over the years has included Halfway House, Intermediate Residential, Aftercare, Outpatient and Adolescent programs.

The origin of our namesake came from St. Augustines's mother, St. Monica. Living in A.D. 387 St. Monica was charged with the duty of drawing the wine from the cellar. She soon began drinking from the wine. One day she was confronted by a servant who referred to her as a "wine-bibber." St. Monica was overcome with shame and never again gave way to temptation. This is believed to be the first recording of a female alcoholic. Not wanting to appear as if there was any religious organization association the founders chose Santa Monica instead of Saint Monica.