International Activities
Soon after it was founded, Portage joined with several international associations that are active in the field of addiction, and has hosted a number of international events.
International associations
Portage is an active member of the following international associations:
International presence
Thanks to its expertise and enviable reputation as a therapeutic community, Portage is sought out by institutions and governments that are interested in establishing similar treatment programs.
Portage can serve as an advisor or partner, ensuring respect for local conditions and cultures.
- United States
In 1979, in response to a request from the New York State Commission on Corrections, Portage developed a program and trained staff at 21 New York State prisons.
Known as The Network Project, this program was a resounding success that spawned numerous variants and adaptations.
- Hungary
Since 2001, Portage has helped to establish a number of therapeutic communities and train staff in Hungary. In fact, a number of treatment centres in Hungary have adopted and adapted Portage’s therapeutic programs and techniques.
- Italy
After taking in addicts from Italy at lac Écho in Prévost since 1982, Portage helped to establish two CREST SRL cenres in Milan and Varese in 1985.
- Portugal
In 1989, in association with a group of Portuguese psychiatrists, Portage helped to found a therapeutic community called Clinica do outeiro north of Porto in Portugal.
- Other countries
Portage has been involved in establishing treatment programs, served as a consultant and trained correctional and social services personnel in many countries, including Belgium, Romania, Honduras, the Philippines, Bermuda, and China, as well as in the Caribbean.
These activities are conducive to the creation of long-term relationships that are productive and rewarding for partners, for users, and for Portage.
International events
Portage actively participates in a variety of international meetings, forums and conferences:
- 1976: Organized the second International Conference of Therapeutic Communities in Montréal
- 1991: Organized the 14th World Conference of Therapeutic Communities in Montréal
- 2003: Hosted the International Council on Alcoholism and Addictions (ICAA) Congress in Toronto, Ontario.