Educate. Advocate. Support.

Aarons Place Logo

Where young people come together to transform

Learn more about Aaron’s Place and our unique approach to substance use support and education for young people.

Founded in 2021 by Justin Phillips, Aaron’s Place has grown from a single program to camps and a virtual mentoring program. Core to these programs is an emphasis on education around substance use and its consequences, as well as building strong mentor/mentee relationships. 

As an evidence-based, year-round therapeutic intervention and mentoring program, Aaron’s Place helps develop communities that support and empower children and teens that have been affected by substance use in their family. Whether attending Camp Mariposa (camp for 9-12 year olds) or APEX (virtual mentoring program for 13-17 year olds), programs are structured around the child’s other commitments, with activities they can both enjoy and learn from.

 

0 %

have not used any substance to get high

0 %

Of attendees have built strong relationships with mentors

0 %

have not been involved in the juvenile justice system.

*Based on Camp Mariposa

The Key Tent-Poles of Aaron’s Place

We use multiple approaches to prevent drug use among youth, building on three key areas.

Community

Through social activities that help promote peer and group mentoring.

Education

Through evidence-based educational curriculum developed by mental health professionals.

Empowerment

Through understanding the choices they make and the impact they have.

A Curriculum Based on Understanding

Key to all Aaron’s Place programs is the 7 C’s, which help mentors to guide your child through understanding the effects of their decisions.

Cause
Control
Cure
Care
Communication
Choice
Celebration

Want your child to take part?

Choose between two programs, depending on the age of your child.

A series of weekend camps and family days throughout the year for children ages 9-12.

Learn More

A series of weekend camps and family days throughout the year for children ages 9-12.

Learn More
Seth cannot stop talking about what an amazing time he had. He met many new friends and had many new experiences.
parent
Camp Mariposa has helped me understand that my family’s addiction is not my fault
camper, 12
Camp helps me learn that I’m not alone in this situation. I can connect with kids my age who understand and relate to what I’ve been going through.
camper, 12
Camp helped me realize there is always somebody to talk to and always someone to be your hero. We also have fun too. It’s like a get-away weekend with people who understand you.
camper, 12
Camp is amazing. It helps me feel seen and heard. Camp is full of fun times and learning opportunities. Campers and mentors are always there to listen to you.
camper, 12

Meet Aaron

Aaron Sims loved skateboarding and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and playing sports. He was 20 years old when a heroin overdose led to him passing away in October of 2013.

It’s from this that Aaron’s law was passed, allowing laypersons, including family and friends of someone with Substance Use Disorder, to access naloxone without a prescription. Moreover, the individual who administered the naloxone to someone experiencing an overdose was also protected from civil liability. Learn more about Aaron’s Law

Today, Aaron’s Place has been created to help young people in situations where they are exposed to substance use disorder, with a focus on prevention and education.

Subscribe to our Newsletter