About
Meet Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services
Rideauwood Addiction and Family Services is a non-profit organization based in Ottawa, Ontario, dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by substance use, behavioral addictions, and related mental health challenges. Since its founding in 1976, Rideauwood has provided compassionate, evidence-based services that help people navigate the complexities of addiction and recovery. By offering education, prevention, counselling, and treatment programs, the organization empowers individuals to make healthier choices and improve their overall well-being.
Rideauwood serves many people, including youth, adults, and families. Their youth-focused programs provide early intervention, helping young people struggling with substance use, gambling, gaming, and other compulsive behaviors. For adults, Rideauwood offers personalized treatment plans that address substance use and co-occurring mental health concerns. Recognizing that addiction affects entire families, the organization also supports parents, caregivers and loved ones - equipping them with the tools to navigate the challenges of addiction while prioritizing their own mental and emotional health.
A key aspect of Rideauwood’s mission is community engagement. Through partnerships with schools, workplaces and community organizations - they provide education and awareness initiatives to prevent addiction before it starts. Their harm reduction approach ensures that people have access to the support and resources they need, regardless of where they are in their recovery journey. In addition, their problem gambling and behavioral addiction programs help individuals manage compulsive behaviors beyond substance use.
At its core, Rideauwood believes in a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to addiction recovery. They understand that each person’s journey is unique and that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Through its specialized programs, Rideauwood helps individuals regain control over their lives, rebuild relationships, and work toward a healthier future. By providing ongoing support and education, Rideauwood plays a vital role in strengthening individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction.
Learn more about Hope on The Horizon and the ACPR campaign
The Algonquin College Public Relations (ACPR) program runs a yearly campaign to fundraise for a local charity and give students hands-on experience to succeed in PR. Since 1986, ACPR students have raised close to $500,000 in support of local organizations, including CHEO, the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, LiveWorkPlay, Candlelighters and the John Howard Society. This year’s “Hope on The Horizon” campaign aims to raise money for Rideauwood addiction and family services. Rideauwood combines specialized mental health care, advocacy, research and education to transform the lives of people living with complex and treatment-resistant mental illnesses.