Our Story: 40 Years of Family-Centered Recovery
Since 1986, Ujima Family Recovery Services has been a pioneer in family-centered recovery grounded in a simple but powerful belief: families heal best together.
Ujima opened Contra Costa County’s (northern California) first residential treatment program designed specifically for pregnant and parenting adults at a time when seeking help often meant being separated from one’s children. Ujima took a different approach, creating a safe, supportive space where recovery could happen without breaking the parent–child bond.
That early commitment to keeping families together while supporting recovery, stability, and whole-family wellness continues to guide everything we do today.
Ujima Today: We serve 900+ Families Each Year Across Contra Costa, Solano, and Napa Counties in Northern California.
Ujima provides compassionate, evidence-based, family-centered care that supports recovery while keeping families together. Through a trauma-informed continuum of services, we help individuals and families move from immediate support to long-term stability supporting recovery, housing, and whole-family wellness along the way.
Our Whole Family Approach
Our work is grounded in the belief that recovery is not just about sobriety, it's about rebuilding lives, relationships and stability.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Integrated mental health and substance use care grounded in proven methodologies
Parenting & Family Wellness
Support to strengthen bonds and build lasting resilience in families
Youth & Children's Programs
Nurturing healing and confidence in the next generation
Community Partnerships
Promoting access to housing, healthcare, and long-term stability
Addressing the Whole Picture
Our comprehensive model addresses the complex needs that often accompany addiction, including housing instability, trauma, family violence, and more. We provide not just treatment, but a pathway to lasting stability and hope.
A Community of Strength
The word Ujima comes from the Swahili principle meaning collective work and responsibility, the idea that we rise by lifting each other.
That spirit lives in everything we do: from our caring staff and peer mentors to the parents who give back as community role models.
Many of our team members have walked the same path as the families we serve. Their lived experience brings compassion, understanding, and hope that recovery is not only possible, it’s powerful.
Recognized for Excellence in Family Recovery
Our groundbreaking, family-centered model has earned state and national recognition, affirming our dedication to quality care.
Governor's Exemplary Employer Award
State of California
Exemplary Perinatal Program
California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)
Recovery Happens Award
State of California
Honor Roll Award
Contra Costa County Children & Families Policy Forum
National SAMHSA Women's SUD Treatment Leader
Rita Schank, Executive Director
These honors reflect not only our dedication to quality care but also our unwavering belief in the strength of families and the power of community.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every parent and child has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive, free from the cycles of addiction and trauma.
Together, we are building that future, one family at a time.
"At Ujima, we don't just treat addiction, we help families rebuild their lives. Every day we see strength, courage, and love in action. Our work is a testament to the power of community and the belief that healing is possible for everyone."
— Rita Schank, Executive Director
Ready to Heal. Ready to Grow. Ready for Ujima.
Call today or refer a family in need.