In 1968, Gaudenzia was founded by Philadelphians who realized that a growing number of substance-abuse addicts had nowhere to go for help. The community started out as, and continues to be, a place where people help one another to overcome and thrive. Today, there are multiple Gaudenzia centers across the Northeast. The Norristown location provides live-in and outpatient care options for addicts and persons with mental-health issues. It is a loving and disciplined environment where people are taught tools that enable them to succeed and build relationships.