About Us

Our Mission:
The Mission of the Rockland Council on Alcoholism & Other Drug Dependence Inc. is to reduce the stigma of the disease of alcoholism and addiction; to help addicted persons, their families and concerned others to obtain appropriate services through referral services and advocacy; to increase public awareness about recovery; to provide support for the recovery community; to reduce the incidence of alcoholism and chemical dependency through prevention education and training. 

History: The History of the Rockland Council on Alcoholism and other Drug Dependence Inc. In 1972, a group of dedicated and spirited citizens living in New City, Haverstraw and Pearl River seized upon the opportunities presented with the passing of the Comprehensive Alcoholism and Prevention and Treatment Act. This legislation, written by Senator Howard Hughes, was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Nixon in 1972. This law freed up federal funding and provided monies that gave states the ability to develop alcohol educational and treatment programs of various kinds.  Through the work and commitment of this Rockland grassroots group, the Rockland Council on Alcoholism (RCADD) became a functional service provider in the mid-1980. In 1985 a grant was received giving the council 100% funding for the next three years. Once the council’s funding, charter and incorporation were in place, three staff members were hired.

In 1992, RCADD moved to St. Paul’s church and hired a new director. Soon the Council achieved the reputation as being a safe, caring health agency where alcoholics and their families could receive free confidential help and information. The Rockland Chemical Dependency Studies Institute was incorporated in April, 1994. The Studies Institute has provided professional training for those seeking to become Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASAC). In 1998, RCADD received a Recovery Movement Support Grant. Then, in 2001, in collaboration with Office of Children and Family Services and the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, a grant was received to establish the Family Treatment Court. In 2008, RCADD, along with other community agencies celebrated National Alcohol and Drug Abuse Recovery Month with the first annual recovery rally.    

RCADD celebrated its 30 year anniversary of providing the Rockland County Community with prevention education, information resources and recovery support services. Since 1973, the Rockland Council on Alcoholism and other Drug Dependence, Inc. has been enriched by hundreds of citizens serving as volunteers, Board Members and in other roles thorough the community. For more than 30 years, a legacy of competent Executive Directors and dedicated staff has kept the Council in the forefront for advocacy and services to the people in Rockland who need them most.