To conduct and support collaborative programs of research, prevention, education and policy development - that lead to a reduction of the devastating effects of substance use disorders on individuals, families and communities.

The mental picture of an organization’s desired future is the guiding force of all its activity and the source of its energy. A Vision is a dream that beckons; an inspiration that motivates people to action. The Vision Statement for the Institute is intended to be compelling, so that it might inspire us to greatness.

Betty Ford Institute will always reflect the high ideals, standards, quality and reputation of Betty Ford Center at Eisenhower. The Institute will be an innovative leader in all of its endeavors and will devote itself to the following initiatives:

• Convene carefully constructed panels of professionals to review, compile and synthesize recent research findings in addictive disease and alcohol and other drug abuse; and actively communicate the results of this work to a wider audience and provide input to setting the agenda for ongoing research.
• Translate recent research findings into effective treatment practices, in collaboration with the nation's highest quality treatment centers.
• Perform rigorous scientific validation studies of prevention and treatment practices, including some which may be controversial.
• Advance and expand the care and treatment of children and families affected by addictive disease and alcohol and other drug abuse.
• Educate health care professionals in addition medicine, treatment and recovery.
• Advocate the accessibility of treatment and prevention.
• Serve as a global focal point for the public and professional understanding of addictive disease and alcohol and other drug abuse.

What we care about, what really counts, what we truly believe – these are the values that provide the foundation on which our Center and our Institute are built. Values shape an organization’s vision and mission while prescribing acceptable behavior for everyone associated with the organization.

The statement of Values of the Betty Ford Institute describes strongly held beliefs that guide all that we do. We believe…

1. Addictive disease is a chronic relapsing disease requiring a comprehensive and compassionate response.
2. Recovery from addictive disease is a continuous commitment, for the addict and family to a transformation of body, mind, spirit and relationships with others.
3. Addictive disease is widely misunderstood. New understanding of its effects will lead to improved prevention and treatment of the disease.
4. New understanding of addictive disease and alcohol and other drug abuse is best developed collaboratively, rigorously and should be shared openly.
5. The opportunity for recovery and healing should be shared and accessible to all.