Foothills Academy was the realization of a dream for Judge Jeff Choate. While working as a Judge for the state of Kentucky , Mr. Choate realized the need for a place in this area to help the many troubled youth he saw while presiding as a judge. Through much work and dedication, Mr. Choate's dream was finally realized when Foothills Academy opened its doors in April of 2002.

Mr. Choate's vision realized when the Federal government raided a house in Albany , KY. A local resident had one of the largest underground marijuana growing facilities in the nation. When learning of the seizure of this property, Mr. Choate began pursuing this property for his vision which is now Foothills Academy . The government agreed to lease this property to Mr. Choate.

Now Foothills Academy is a thriving treatment center with 70 residents and over 80 employees. Foothills Academy is also expanding current operations with two more houses opening during 2008. Upon completion of these two houses the Academy will have 84 residents and will employ over 100 employees.

Foothills Academy is located on over 50 acres in Albany , KY. Foothills Academy is a picturesque setting of rolling hills and beautiful tree lined landscape. At the facility, 13 – 18 year old males receive many therapeutic opportunities. Residents receive individual, group, and family counseling. They are active in drug and alcohol counseling and anger and behavior management. Foothills Academy 's approach to treatment is a team concept. It is Foothills Academy 's belief that everyone, including counselors, line staff, and all the way to maintenance personnel, are responsible for helping these young men turn their lives around. Foothills Academy also believes instilling a sense of pride in their clients. Foothills does this by teaching their clients independent living skills. The residents are responsible for doing their own laundry, cleaning their house and rooms, taking part in physical training, and maintaining the beauty of the campus.

Foothills Academy also does many community work projects. The residents have picked up trash on littered highways, cleaned up old cemeteries, and have routinely completed many other community projects. Foothills also believes that residents should be able to enjoy recreational activities. Foothills residents have their own softball field and a recently built indoor gym. They also go camping, boating, fishing, and enjoy many other outdoor activities.