In 1969, an organization known as the Hope Committee was founded by a small group of compassionate individuals who shared a specific concern regarding the abuse of alcohol and its effect upon the citizens of Rhode Island. For 16 years, this committee operated as a strictly volunteer, non-profit, informational agency. In 1986, with the onset of increased public awareness as to the abuse of alcohol, the Hope Council on Alcoholism reorganized itself as the Rhode Island Council on Alcoholism.

By 1987, the Council was primarily supported by government grants, the United Way of Southeastern New England, and various charitable foundations. The Council was also a membership-based organization, seeking not only financial support, but the additional voice of each member in its fight against alcohol and other drug addictions. As a non-treatment provider, the Council had a pivotal role in helping to improve services, reduce duplication, and direct attention to unmet needs in the state. Through work with government leaders, the legislature, community agencies, and various committees, the Council advocated for responsible public policy regarding alcohol, and drug abuse treatment, prevention, education and enforcement programs.

It is important to note that the Council had undergone significant transitions since 1987 in the areas of staff and Board organizational structure, policy development, and diversification of funding sources, as well as identification, design and implementation of programs. The impact of this shift was a direct result of the dedicated staff and the Board of Directors who redefined their role as active participants in an organization whose message is vital for providing effective programs and services to a statewide constituency.

In 1993 the Council assumed responsibility for the State Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). Still in effect today, the RLF is a program in which federal funds are used to establish programs for the provision of housing for individuals recovering from alcohol and/or substance abuse may reside. Before securing the Loan Fund, the Council had one recovery house in operation. By the close of 1994 the number increased to 4 houses and by the end of 1995 the total was 6. Presently, in 2008, the Council has 9 houses in operation.