VIP Community Services Earns Newsweek's Best Addiction Treatment Centers Recognition for Third Straight Year

VIP Community Services has been recognized among Newsweek's Best Addiction Treatment Centers for the third consecutive year, earning a place on the 2025 list. This national recognition underscores VIP's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to individuals seeking recovery from addiction. The organization provides comprehensive, integrated primary care, behavioral health, housing, vocational, and supportive services that promote the well-being of individuals, families, and communities across the Bronx.

Newsweek, in partnership with Statista, evaluated facilities across the country to identify the top 420 centers—an increase from last year's 400. Rankings were determined through a comprehensive analysis of four key data sources: National Online Survey of medical professionals, addiction treatment specialists, and facility administrators (55% of total score), Accreditation Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (35%), Care Services Data from SAMHSA (5%), and Google Reviews from clients and their families (5%). The survey focused on the 25 states with the highest number of addiction treatment centers, according to SAMHSA.

Only inpatient/residential and long-term programs—defined as a minimum of 28–30 days—were considered, with the top 10–18% of eligible facilities in each state or region receiving recognition. This rigorous evaluation process ensures that recognized centers meet the highest standards of care and effectiveness in addiction treatment. The recognition matters because it validates VIP's evidence-based approaches and their impact on addressing the opioid crisis and substance use disorders that disproportionately affect underserved communities.

Debbian Fletcher-Blake, President & CEO of VIP Community Services, emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating that it reflects the resilience and determination of the individuals and families they serve, as well as the unwavering dedication of their staff. The organization addresses systemic issues such as poverty, substance use, unemployment, and housing insecurity with a commitment to dignity, recovery, and empowerment. This consistent recognition positions VIP as a leader in the addiction treatment field and reinforces the importance of integrated care models that address both behavioral health and social determinants of health.

The implications of this repeated recognition extend beyond organizational prestige, as it demonstrates VIP's sustained excellence in a field where quality outcomes are critical for saving lives and supporting long-term recovery. Being named to Newsweek's list for three consecutive years signals to patients, families, and funders that VIP maintains high standards of care and continues to evolve its services to meet community needs. This recognition also highlights the effectiveness of their holistic approach, which combines clinical treatment with supportive services to address the complex challenges faced by individuals recovering from addiction.