Police Assisted Addiction Recovery Initiative

The Police Assisted Addiction & Recovery Initiative (PAARI) is a non-profit organization based in Boston, Massachusetts. With a team of 23 employees, PAARI has generated $24.8 million in revenue. PAARI provides support and resources to law enforcement agencies across the United States, helping them establish non-arrest pathways to treatment and recovery for individuals struggling with substance abuse. Their core mission is to empower police departments to play a vital role in preventing overdose deaths and expanding access to treatment. PAARI's approach recognizes addiction as a disease rather than a criminal issue, encouraging early intervention and support. PAARI's national network comprises over 700 police departments in 40 states. They specialize in developing customized non-arrest programs, often referred to as early diversion models, that can be tailored to the specific needs of each community. These programs leverage various law enforcement entry points to treatment, including self-referrals at police stations and targeted outreach based on risk assessments or incidents. Partnerships with clinicians, social workers, recovery coaches, and trained volunteers are integral to the success of these initiatives. Agencies interested in joining PAARI or seeking additional information and support can visit their website at paariusa.org or contact them directly at [email protected].