The Road to Recovery: A Guide to Top 9 Charities That Help Alcoholics | Full List

Alcohol addiction is a silent killer that affects millions worldwide, regardless of age, gender, or social status. While the journey to recovery can be challenging, the right support and resources can make a difference. That’s where charities come in – they provide a lifeline for those struggling with alcoholism, offering hope, guidance, and a path to sobriety.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most impactful charities that help alcoholics and how their work changes live. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, this post is a must-read – because when it comes to overcoming alcoholism, no one should have to do it alone.

Here are 9 Charities that help with Alcoholics:

1. Alcoholics Anonymous

First up is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), a nonprofit organization that offers a 12-step program for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. The program is based on mutual support, where individuals come together in groups to share their experiences and work through the 12 steps. AA emphasizes spiritual principles such as honesty, humility, and service to help individuals overcome addiction and maintain their recovery.

The organization is open to anyone who wants to stop drinking and offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals to find hope and healing. AA has an impressive charity score of 88% on Charity Navigator with 3 stars.

2. SMART Recovery

Another organization that offers support for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction is SMART Recovery. This science-based, nonprofit organization provides a self-help program that utilizes evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and rational emotive behavior therapy.

The program emphasizes self-reliance and empowerment, providing tools and strategies for individuals to develop and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. SMART Recovery encourages individuals to work with trained facilitators, attend meetings, and participate in online forums to build a supportive community and receive ongoing support. They have received a platinum transparency seal on GuideStar.

3. National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) is a nonprofit organization that provides education, advocacy, and support to individuals and families affected by addiction, including alcoholism. NCADD is a leading voice in addiction and promotes awareness, prevention, and access to treatment for those struggling with addiction.

The organization offers various services, including education and training programs, advocacy and public policy initiatives, and support services for individuals and families affected by addiction. Their mission is to improve the lives of those affected by addiction by providing education, resources, and support to promote lasting recovery. NCADD has a perfect score of 100% on Charity Navigator.

4. Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)

When it comes to addiction recovery, traditional 12-step programs don’t work for everyone. That’s where Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS) comes in. This non-profit organization provides a non-religious alternative for individuals struggling with addiction, including alcoholism. SOS emphasizes individual responsibility, empowerment, and self-reliance as key factors in overcoming addiction, and their meetings are open to anyone seeking recovery in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

Founded in 1985, SOS believes sobriety is a personal choice that can be achieved by developing a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle. Sadly, they have yet to be rated by any Charity Watchdogs.

5. Women for Sobriety (WFS)

Women for Sobriety (WFS) is a non-profit organization providing support and resources for women struggling with addiction, including alcoholism. Founded in 1975, WFS is based on “The New Life Program,” which emphasizes self-help, positive thinking, and healthy lifestyle choices. The program includes 13 affirmations that promote self-empowerment and emotional and spiritual growth.

The organization aims to help women overcome addiction, rebuild their lives, and achieve lasting recovery. With a score of 88% and 3 stars on Charity Navigator, Women for Sobriety is a great resource for women seeking support and guidance on their journey to recovery.

6. Moderation Management (MM)

Moderation Management (MM) is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to individuals who want to moderate their drinking rather than abstain completely. In 1994, MM offers a science-based approach to alcohol management that emphasizes self-awareness, personal responsibility, and moderation. The program includes tools and strategies, such as goal-setting, self-monitoring, and social support, to help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy relationship with alcohol.

MM meetings are open to anyone who wants to learn more about the program. The organization provides online resources and support services for individuals who cannot attend in-person meetings. With a gold seal rating on Guidestar, Moderation Management is a great resource for individuals who want to take control of their drinking habits and make positive changes in their lives.

7. The Phoenix

The Phoenix provides a unique approach to addiction recovery by using fitness and community to help individuals achieve and maintain lasting sobriety. Founded in 2006, the organization offers a range of activities, such as yoga, rock climbing, and CrossFit, that promote physical fitness, social connection, and personal growth.

The Phoenix community is open to anyone in recovery, and the organization provides scholarships and other financial assistance to ensure that all individuals have access to its programs. By helping individuals build a healthy, fulfilling life in recovery and breaking the stigma surrounding addiction, The Phoenix is making a significant impact. They have a charity score of 86% with 3 stars on Charity Navigator.

8. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is a United States government agency that conducts and supports research on the causes, consequences, prevention, and treatment of alcohol-related problems. The organization’s mission is to reduce the burden of alcohol-related problems on individuals, families, and society by advancing research, promoting public education and awareness, and supporting the development and implementation of effective prevention and treatment strategies.

NIAAA’s research program includes studies on the effects of alcohol on the brain and body, the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to alcohol use disorder, and the development of new and effective treatments for alcohol-related problems.

9. Hazelden Betty Ford Center

Hazelden Betty Ford Center is an addiction treatment center in Rancho Mirage, California. Founded in 1982, the center offers comprehensive treatment programs for individuals struggling with addiction, including alcoholism. The center’s programs include residential treatment, outpatient services, and a specialized program for older adults.

The center’s treatment approach is based on the 12-step model of recovery and includes evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family therapy. With a perfect score of 100% on Charity Navigator, Hazelden Betty Ford Center is significantly impacting the lives of individuals struggling with addiction.

Helpful tips to learn more about charities that help alcoholics:

• Do Your Research: Take the time to research the various charities that offer support for alcoholics. Look for charities with a proven success track record and positive reviews from past participants.

• Consider Your Needs: Different charities may offer different types of support, such as peer support groups, medical treatment, or educational resources. Consider your specific needs and find a charity that offers the support you need.

• Look for Local Resources: Many charities that help alcoholics have local chapters or meetings. Consider attending a local meeting or event to connect with others going through similar challenges.

• Be Open-Minded: There are many approaches to addiction recovery, and what works for one person may not. Keep an open mind and be willing to explore different options to find the best support for you.

• Take Advantage of Online Resources: Many charities that help alcoholics offer online resources, such as virtual support groups, educational materials, and forums for connecting with others. Take advantage of these resources to get the support you need, even if you can’t attend in-person meetings.

• Consider Volunteering: If you’re in recovery from alcohol addiction and looking for ways to give back, consider volunteering with a charity that helps alcoholics. Volunteering can be a great way to connect with others and give back to a cause you believe in.

• Spread Awareness: Finally, don’t be afraid to share your story and raise awareness about the impact of alcohol addiction. By sharing your experience and supporting charities that help alcoholics, you can make a difference in the lives of others struggling with addiction.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, charities that help alcoholics are essential in promoting recovery, offering support, and breaking down the stigma surrounding addiction. Whether you choose a 12-step program, a science-based approach, or a fitness-based program, a charity can provide the support and resources you need to achieve lasting sobriety.

However, it’s important to remember that addiction is complex, and recovery is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s essential to be open-minded, take advantage of available resources, and be willing to explore different approaches to find what works best for you.

Finally, we must remember that addiction is a disease that affects not just the individual but their families and communities. It’s up to all of us to break down the stigma surrounding addiction, promote awareness and understanding, and offer support and compassion to struggling people. By coming together and supporting charities that help alcoholics, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by addiction. Let us work together towards a world where everyone can access the support they need to achieve lasting recovery.