History

Our History

At the Center for Family Life and Recovery (CFLR, Inc.), our roots run deep in Central New York. What began as a small community initiative has grown into a leading regional resource for prevention, treatment, and recovery—supporting individuals and families impacted by addiction, substance use, and mental health challenges across Utica, Rome, Herkimer, Syracuse, and beyond.

Our Beginnings (1970s–1980s)

CFLR’s origins trace back to [insert founding year], when community leaders recognized the urgent need for structured support around addiction and recovery. Early programs focused on prevention, education, and grassroots counseling, laying the foundation for recovery-focused community work.

Built through partnerships with local agencies and volunteers.
Offered prevention education for families and schools.
Established a foundation for community-centered recovery.

Growing to Meet Community Needs (1990s–2000s)

As community needs expanded, so did our services. CFLR grew to address mental health, youth programming, and family recovery, partnering with schools, healthcare providers, and law enforcement.

Expanded services across multiple counties.
Introduced specialized counseling and recovery programs.
Strengthened collaborations to broaden impact.

Expanding Recovery and Wellness (2010s–Today)

With a broader mission, we became the Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. Today, our work reaches thousands every year through prevention initiatives, mental health support, addiction recovery, and family wellness services.

Serving Utica, Rome, Herkimer, Syracuse, and surrounding areas.
Delivering evidence-based prevention, counseling, and recovery coaching.
Supporting individuals and families with a comprehensive wellness approach.

Milestones

2012

Adoption of 2012–2015 Strategic Plan; 17th Anniversary of IMPACT Program; 18th Anniversary of EAP.

2011

Merger formed CFLR, Inc.; new logo and brand unveiled; largest grant awarded ($88,584); BNY Mellon Thanksgiving partnership continued (20+ years).

2010

Five-year Safe Schools/Healthy Students contract awarded for Second Step programming.

2009-2010

Advocacy on underage drinking, social host law, and youth summits

2009

First Recovery Classic Golf Tournament.

2006

Relocation to 502 Court Street, Utica (current headquarters).

2005

EAP expanded to meet business and workforce needs.

From humble beginnings to a regional leader, CFLR continues to inspire hope, provide help, promote wellness, and transform lives—building healthier futures for individuals, families, and communities across Central New York.

Looking Ahead

While our history shapes who we are, it is our vision for the future that drives us forward. We remain dedicated to expanding access to mental health support, addiction recovery programs, and prevention education throughout Central New York.

At CFLR, we believe recovery is not only possible—it’s worth celebrating. Our past is proof of the difference we can make, and our future will continue to be built on the guiding belief that when there’s help, there’s hope.