January 30th is a significant date for Social Model Recovery Systems (SMRS), as we commemorate the remarkable journey of River Community, our program nestled in the tranquil San Gabriel Mountains. It was on this day in 1987 that we welcomed the first resident to our treatment program, initiating a 37-year legacy of delivering transformative care to individuals grappling with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
A Pioneer in Co-occurring Disorder Treatment
For more than three decades, SMRS has been at the forefront of fostering transformative changes in individuals’ lives, beginning with River Community. In 1986, SMRS acquired a property situated in the serene Angeles National Forest, north of Azusa, California, and established the 39-bed facility. Commencing operation in 1987, River Community takes pride as the country’s first long-term residential treatment program dedicated to serving adults with co-occurring disorders.
Prior to River Community, individuals facing these disorders struggled to find adequate support, as mental health programs often lacked a comprehensive understanding of addiction and vice versa. River Community filled this gap with an integrated, holistic approach, addressing both addiction and mental health issues in tandem, providing a unified and effective support system.
A Sanctuary of Healing and Personalized Care
Set against the backdrop of the Angeles National Forest’s natural beauty, River Community is more than a treatment program; it’s a sanctuary for holistic healing and recovery. The location’s significance was further highlighted when President Barack Obama designated the surrounding area as a national monument in 2014, enhancing both its historical and therapeutic value.
Under the guidance of Program Director Sarah Tostado, River Community offers a unique, inclusive treatment approach, emphasizing individual healing and the restoration of family relationships. The program’s structure, incorporating group and individual therapy sessions, along with participation in self-help groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, fosters personal growth and community engagement. Customized treatment plans, a cornerstone of the program, reflect SMRS’s commitment to understanding and addressing each individual’s unique journey towards recovery.
A Legacy of Compassionate Care and Hope
As River Community celebrates its 37th anniversary, we honor the dedication of Sarah Tostado and her team for their role in creating a nurturing and innovative treatment environment. This program has become a symbol of hope and compassionate care, embodying the journey of recovery and renewal. Over the years, River Community has transformed into more than just a treatment center; it’s a beacon of change, merging nature’s beauty, community strength, and personalized care. This milestone is not only a celebration of past achievements but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to providing vital, life-changing support.
