Longstanding Addiction Treatment Center Moves to New Pasadena Location

The Pasadena Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (PCADD), a program of Social Model Recovery Systems, is marking its move to a new facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday.

The event celebrates the program’s relocation to an upgraded building after decades of operation in the community.

“This is …  a grand opening,” said Mike Schaub, Senior Director of Community Relations at Social Model Recovery Systems.

Schaub emphasized that while the location is new, the center’s services remain steadfast.  These include outpatient and intensive outpatient treatments for adults and adolescents, as well as mental health services.

The new facility features both indoor and outdoor spaces designed to enhance the treatment experience. 

“It’s a very nice property with outdoor living space as well. It’s very private. We have just a lot of really, really nice space indoors with a gorgeous atmosphere,” Schaub said.

Social Model Recovery Systems, the nonprofit organization operating PCADD, maintains a broad community presence. 

Addressing concerns about stigma in addiction and mental health treatment, Schaub pointed to the Center’s person-centered approach. 

“We see it as meeting every single person where they are, and doing the very best that we can as a team and as a community and as a provider to help them to engage in the process of recovery and treatment, to where they can have a better life,” he said.

The Council was founded in 1949 by Katherine K. Pike, with support from the Pasadena Junior League and dedicated community members. Pike and her husband Tom have tirelessly advocated for those affected by alcoholism at local, state, and national levels.

In 1954, the Council became a United Way agency and affiliated with the National Council on Alcoholism. Laura McLaughlin served as the first Executive Director, establishing critical initiatives including the Pasadena Alcohol Center, Casa de Las Amigas, and Haven House.

Jean Vandervoort, Executive Director from 1969, introduced the alcohol awareness course at PCC in 1973 and later a series in collaboration with local health organizations. The innovative Sunrise and Sunset programs, addressing youth and senior alcoholism respectively, further solidified the Council’s impact.

Looking ahead, the organization aims to continue its community engagement across various sectors. This includes working with schools, businesses, other nonprofits, and the medical community to support individuals and families seeking help.

Social Model Recovery Systems, PCADD’s parent organization, has been operating for 38 years. The exact founding date of PCADD was not specified in the interview, but its long-standing presence in the community was emphasized.

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