ABOUT US

Community-centered recovery and education

What is The Safe Foundation?

Safe operates as outpatient treatment facilities in both Brooklyn, New York, and Eatontown, New Jersey. We specialize in treating individuals coping with problem gambling and alcohol/drug misuse, as well as their family members. Safe clinics are licensed by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).

Safe also strives to prevent addiction through creative school- and community-based education and awareness-raising efforts. In nine schools we implement a creative and original curriculum and we produce workshops and events in community spaces focusing on the most topical matters.

In recognition that eating disorders are widespread and the treatment options are limited, Safe recently initiated the Mindful Eating Project, which connects those in need to treatment and spreads knowledge about the disorder and promotes wellbeing. To heighten impact, Safe is preparing to open a NYS-licensed eating disorder clinic in late 2025.

Our story

The Safe Foundation was founded in 2003 by Ike Dweck, who, after overcoming a gambling addiction, was determined to help others facing similar struggles. Starting alone, Ike’s undertaking grew into a sizable and multi-dimensional organization. Today, we are glad to have treated over 9,000 people in in our clinics, and tens of thousands more through prevention initiatives. We remain committed to being of compassionate service and to evolving however necessary as we continue to pursue our vision of a society free of the distress of addiction.

Our mission

We are here to support individuals and families in their journey to overcome addiction through holistic, person-centered treatment. We provide treatment and support for everyone that comes through our doors, and no one is declined due to financial limitations. We lead school- and community-based efforts focused on prevention, education, and awareness, and designed to dissolve the stigma surrounding addiction and ensure that support is amply available.

Voices of our community

  • “What brought me to SAFE was a history of drug addiction and relapse that was ruining my marriage and family as well as my employment. [Now] my marriage is stronger, as well as my relationship with my son. I have regained my self-respect and have won back my wife and son’s trust and respect.”

    -Marc L., Safe Graduate

  • “Thank you, Safe, for giving me the emotional building blocks at the start of my journey in recovery.”

    - Nachama Dina, Safe Graduate

  • “The Safe Foundation was a crucial part of my early sobriety. The groups were supportive and made me feel heard, and my therapist guided me through some of my toughest moments. I’m deeply grateful for the care and tools I received to rebuild my life.”

    -L., Safe Graduate

  • “My recovery started here, and it will continue to grow, and help others along the way. I will always have gratitude for Safe and everyone a part of it. Thank you.”

    -D., Safe Graduate

  • “No words can express our gratitude for the love, care, concern you have shown our family. Your guidance and words of encouragement are a vital support during this challenging time in our lives.”

    -I., Safe Graduate

  • “I owe a big part of my recovery to Safe. I can say I have no regrets going through this program and it has complemented all the other work I’ve put in. Truth be told, it took a lot of loss for me to be willing to make the changes I needed to make.”

    -S., Safe Graduate

  • “I would like to take this opportunity to thank The Safe Foundation. I have developed a new lease on life and I have everyone at Safe to thank for it. I am extremely appreciative of the kindness given to me by the Safe staff.”

    -H., Safe Graduate