With over 35 million people worldwide suffering from drug use disorders, the need for comprehensive treatment and prevention programs is critical. Fortunately, organizations around the world offer access to evidence-based treatments, educational resources, and recovery support that can save lives and help rebuild communities. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that combat drug addiction?

The best charities that combat drug addiction are Shatterproof and Faces and Voices of Recovery. Organizations such as the Partnership to End Addiction and the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation combat drug addiction through advocacy, awareness, and direct support.

Whether you want to fund research to advance understanding of addiction, help a family access crucial resources, or support individuals in their recovery, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities that combat drug addiction are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to contribute.

Here’s What All the Best Charities That Combat Drug Addiction Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact, transparency ratings, and achievements.

They operate primarily throughout the US and Canada, but some combat drug addiction internationally.

Many of these charities provide direct support to help individuals overcome addiction, while others work to de-stigmatize addiction. Some provide resources and support for families with addicted loved ones, while others focus on behavioral change and self-management.

Additionally, some of the charities below integrate a spiritual component into recovery, and others rely on addiction science to utilize evidence-based practices.

Yet, they all share the same goal of combating drug addiction.

These Are the 9 Best Charities That Combat Drug Addiction in 2026

Below are our favorite charities that combat drug addiction (you can click on their link to directly jump to their section in this article):

Best Charities That Combat Drug Addiction

Shatterproof

Faces and Voices of Recovery

Partnership to End Addiction

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

National Council for Mental Wellbeing

Narcotics Anonymous World Services

SMART Recovery

The Herren Project

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services

(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)

Shatterproof: Ending Stigma, Improving Outcomes

Shatterproof was founded in 2013 by Gary Mendell after he lost his son to addiction. Today, the charity works to break the stigma surrounding addiction and provide better support to those impacted by the condition

Shatterproof holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“We’re on a mission to transform addiction treatment so more people recover.”

Shatterproof

Shatterproof combats drug addiction by revolutionizing the way addiction is understood and treated. For example, in 2017, they launched the Shatterproof National Principles of Care, a standardized, evidence-based rating system to ensure treatment centers deliver effective, comprehensive care. As another example, they work to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction, which impedes recovery for millions of Americans and their families, through projects like their Shatterproof Addiction Stigma Index. Furthermore, they empower communities by advocating for lifesaving policy changes, offering educational resources, and organizing national events to foster a supportive community for those impacted by addiction.

Since their founding, Shatterproof has made significant strides in revolutionizing the way addiction is addressed and treated. For example, their advocacy efforts have helped pass 20 policy changes in 18 states, benefitting over 182 million people. As another example, their National Standards of Care has been adopted by 23 insurers representing over 200 million people. And, in 2022, they received a $5.4 million grant from Elevance Health Foundation to reach over 3,000 healthcare providers to educate them on addiction, increase treatment access, and reduce health disparities.

You can donate to Shatterproof via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by participating in a Shatterproof Walk, advocating, or volunteering.

Faces and Voices of Recovery: De-stigmatizing Addiction, Normalizing Recovery

Faces and Voices of Recovery was founded in 2001 by a group of dedicated individuals and organizations to promote recovery solutions for those impacted by addiction. Today, they continue to empower and advocate for individuals in recovery to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction and provide comprehensive support services.

Faces and Voices of Recovery holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Mobilizing and organizing the recovery community to eliminate the stigma and discrimination facing those affected by addiction.”

Faces and Voices of Re

Faces and Voices of Recovery combats addiction through recovery advocacy, community support, and education. For example, they offer peer recovery support services for people in recovery and training programs and resources for recovery community organizations. Additionally, they host public awareness campaigns and events to reduce the stigma associated with addiction and promote recovery. The organization also provides policy advocacy, working at local, state, and national levels to influence policies that support recovery-friendly initiatives. Furthermore, Faces and Voices of Recovery supports family members and allies by offering educational resources and advocacy training to help them support their loved ones in recovery.

Since their founding, Faces and Voices of Recovery has become the leading non-profit recovery advocacy organization. For example, in 2008, they were instrumental in passing the Paul Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which prevents group health plans and insurance carriers from imposing unfair limits on mental health and substance use disorder benefits. Moreover, in 2019, they established the National Recovery Institute, a peer-run training and technical assistance center for peer recovery support providers.

You can donate to Faces and Voices of Recovery via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by purchasing items from their shop or attending an event.

Partnership to End Addiction: Rooted in Research and Compassion

The Partnership to End Addiction was founded in 2019 with the merger of the Center for Addiction and the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. Today, the organization remains dedicated to ending addiction through prevention, treatment, and recovery support.

The Partnership to End Addiction holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“We’re on a mission to transform how our nation addresses addiction by empowering families, advancing effective care, shaping public policy, and changing culture.”

Partnership to End Addiction

The Partnership to End Addiction combats drug addiction by empowering families, advancing effective care, and advocacy. For example, they provide comprehensive information for families about preventing, detecting, and reacting to teen drug addiction, including their Playbook for Parents of Teens. As another example, they offer resources for treatment and recovery, such as treatment options, support groups, and tips for fostering long-term recovery. Furthermore, they advocate for more evidence-based solutions to addressing addiction based on their research in addiction science.

Since their founding, the Partnership to End Addiction has helped thousands of parents and caregivers navigate their loved one’s battle with addiction. For example, in 2022 alone, their services impacted more than 20,000 families, and over 1.7 million people accessed their educational content. And, in the same year, they launched the SAFE Family Support Locator, a first-of-its-kind tool that helps families find the most appropriate support based on factors like location, treatment type, and ancillary services.

You can donate to the Partnership to End Addiction via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission through advocacy or fundraising.

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation: Empathy and Expertise

The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation was founded in 1949 with the merger of the Hazelden Foundation and the Betty Ford Center to provide recovery support for individuals and families impacted by addiction. Today, they remain dedicated to providing comprehensive behavioral health and treatment options to combat addiction.

The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Helping people outlive the disease of addiction for over 75 years.”

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation

The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation combats drug addiction by providing evidence-based treatment, resources for families, and recovery support. For example, they offer personalized treatment programs including inpatient, outpatient, and virtual models, as well as specialized programs for specific populations, like LGBTQIA+, older adults, and professionals. As another example, they help families navigate addiction by offering support services such as coaching, support groups, and workshops. Furthermore, their online support community The Daily Pledge helps those in recovery maintain sobriety through peer-to-peer support. And, the Hazelden Betty Ford Patient Care Network collaborates with healthcare organizations to improve addiction treatment and recovery. 

Since their founding, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation has become the leading addiction treatment center in the US, supporting over 23,000 people each year. Furthermore, the organization has 15 direct-care sites across the US, and their online resources are accessed by 10,000 unique visitors every day. And, in 2023, Hazelden Publishing sold nearly 1 million products to aid people in recovery, and more than 70,000 people across 43 states and 17 countries were impacted by their prevention solution education.

You can donate to the Hazelden Betty Forde Foundation via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by purchasing items from Hazelden Publishing or engaging in Recovery Advocacy.

National Council for Mental Wellbeing: Healthy Minds, Strong Communities

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing was founded in 1969 as the National Council for Behavioral Health by a coalition of community mental health organizations and leaders in the behavioral health field. Today, they continue to support organizations that combat drug addiction, focusing on policy advocacy, practice improvement, and public education.

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Working to ensure that mental wellbeing is a reality for everyone.”

National Council on Mental Wellbeing

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing combats drug addiction by supporting more than 3,400 behavioral health organizations, including those that treat substance use disorders. For example, they offer training to their member organizations on topics like opioid use disorder and the fundamentals of addiction medicine. Furthermore, they operate programs and initiatives that work to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and recovery. For example, their Mental Health First Aid program educates the public on how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders, while their Start with Hope campaign provides those struggling with addiction a starting point for recovery. 

Since their founding, the National Council for Mental Wellness has impacted the behavioral health of millions of people, including those battling addiction. For example, they have trained more than 3 million people in Mental Health First Aid since 2008; in 2023 alone, they conducted more than 30,000 trainings across the US, resulting in almost 8,600 certified instructors and more than 470,300 trainees. Furthermore, the organization’s advocacy efforts have played a pivotal role in increasing access to quality mental health and substance use disorder treatment, including the Excellence in Mental Health Act in 2014.

You can donate to the National Council for Mental Wellness via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by purchasing items from their shop or joining their advocacy efforts.

Narcotics Anonymous World Services: Step-by-Step Recovery 

Narcotics Anonymous World Services (NAWS) was founded in 1953 by Jimmy Kinnon and a group of individuals in Los Angeles, California who sought to create a fellowship for those struggling with drug addiction. Today, they are a global organization dedicated to providing a supportive network and recovery programs for people battling addiction.

Narcotics Anonymous World Services holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

“Every addict in the world has the chance to experience our message in their own language and culture and find the opportunity for a new way of life.”

Narcotics Anonymous World Services

Narcotics Anonymous World Services combats drug addiction by providing a comprehensive 12-step program and a supportive community for individuals seeking recovery. For example, their approach includes regular group meetings where members share their experiences and support one another. Furthermore, NAWS publishes a variety of literature, including the foundational text “Narcotics Anonymous” (also known as the Basic Text), which outlines the principles of their program and personal stories of recovery. They also offer a wide range of services, including online meetings and resources, to ensure accessibility for people worldwide. And, they organize conventions and events to foster a sense of community and support among members.

Since their founding, Narcotics Anonymous World Services has expanded to over 144 countries, with more than 76,000 meetings held weekly. To date, the Basic Text and other NA literature has been translated into over 55 languages, making the program accessible to millions globally. Furthermore, NAWS has been instrumental in helping countless individuals achieve long-term recovery from addiction. For example, according to a 2018 member survey, the average amount of clean time for members is over 11 years, with 91% of respondents reporting significant improvement in intrapersonal relationships. 

You can donate to Narcotics Anonymous World Services via their website. Additionally, you can support the organization’s mission by purchasing literature from NA’s online store or volunteering to facilitate local NA meetings.

SMART Recovery: Self-Management, Mutual Support

SMART Recovery was founded in 1994 by Dr. Joe Goldstein to provide a science-based alternative to traditional addiction recovery programs. Today, the organization remains dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction through self-empowerment and community support.

SMART Recovery holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Life beyond addiction.”

SMART Recovery 

SMART Recovery combats drug addiction through a variety of programs and resources designed to help individuals achieve long-term recovery. Their programs are based on the latest scientific research and incorporate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques. For example, they provide free face-to-face and online meetings that use their foundational 4-Point Program, focused on building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and living a balanced life. Additionally, the organization provides tools and resources for family and friends of individuals struggling with addiction, as well as meetings for special interest groups like veterans, LGBTQIA+, and youth. 

Since their founding, SMART Recovery has grown to support tens of thousands of individuals through more than 3,000 group meetings across 23 countries each week, with additional online meetings available to ensure accessibility. Furthermore, they have become widely recognized as a viable pathway for recovery support and behavioral change, endorsed by leading government and medical institutions around the world, including the US, the UK, and Australia. 

You can donate to SMART Recovery via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by volunteering to facilitate meetings, participating in their training programs, or purchasing educational materials from their online store.

The Herren Project: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery

The Herren Project was founded in 2011 by former NBA player Chris Herren after his own battle with addiction to provide resources and support for individuals and families affected by addiction. Today, they remain dedicated to empowering those struggling with addiction through comprehensive support and recovery programs.

The Herren Project holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar.

“Services and support to help us all live healthy, fulfilling lives free from the effects of drug and alcohol addiction.”

The Herren Project

The Herren Project combats addiction by providing a variety of support services and resources. For example, they offer recovery housing scholarships, online support groups, and treatment placement assistance to help individuals find the right care. Additionally, they provide prevention programs in schools to educate youth about the risks of substance abuse. The organization also offers family support services, including family consultations and educational resources to help loved ones navigate the challenges of addiction and recovery. Moreover, they award scholarships to high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional passion and commitment to preventing substance misuse, promoting wellness, and empowering their peers to lead healthier lives.

Since their founding, The Herren Project has helped thousands of individuals access treatment and recover from addiction. For example, they have assisted roughly 2,300 people in finding appropriate treatment, with over 1,600 individuals receiving scholarships to offset the cost of treatment. Furthermore, since the introduction of their recovery housing and coaching scholarship programs in 2015, they have provided more than 1,000 people with recovery housing scholarships and free coaching to over 1,100. And, almost 4,200 family members have been impacted by their family support services.

You can donate to the Herren Project via their website. You can also support the organization’s mission by purchasing items from their shop or joining the Team Herren Project.

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services: Recovery through Community

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services was founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in Akron, Ohio to provide a structured, peer-support program for individuals struggling with alcoholism. Today, AAWS continues to help millions of people worldwide achieve and maintain sobriety through its renowned 12-step program.

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

“Helping people worldwide achieve and maintain sobriety through mutual support and accountability.”

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services

Alcoholics Anonymous World Services combats alcohol addiction by providing a supportive community and a structured program for recovery. For example, the cornerstone of their approach is their 12-step program, which includes admitting powerlessness over drugs and alcohol, making amends, and helping others achieve sobriety. AAWS also publishes literature to support individuals in recovery, including The Big Book, which outlines the 12 steps and personal stories of recovery. Additionally, they offer thousands of local and virtual meetings daily where members can share their experiences and support one another in a safe, anonymous environment. The organization also provides resources and training for AA group leaders to ensure effective meeting facilitation and adherence to AA principles.

Since their founding, Alcoholics Anonymous World Services has grown into a global movement, with over 2 million members in more than 180 countries. Furthermore, The Big Book has sold over 30 million copies and is available in multiple languages. Moreover, the organization is one of the most accessible resources for those seeking sobriety, with thousands of meetings held daily around the world, all free of charge with no membership requirements. And, in 2018, the organization launched the Meeting Guide App, which easily connects people with local and virtual resources including meeting information for over 100,000 weekly meetings.

You can donate to Alcoholics Anonymous World Services via their website. Additionally, you can support the organization’s mission by purchasing literature from AA’s online store or volunteering to facilitate local AA meetings.

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities that combat drug addiction. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarize yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the websites of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. Charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to combatting drug addiction—based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

Sources

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• Shatterproof: Home
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