Eluna’s Expert Voices – Why Camp Mariposa?

In this video, we pull back the curtain and explore the motivation that drives participation for Camp Mariposa mentors, directors, clinicians, and families. After absorbing their inspirational WHYs showcased in this video, you may want to learn more about WHAT we do at Camp Mariposa. In a nutshell, Camp Mariposa is a year-round addiction prevention and mentoring program for youth affected by the substance misuse of a family member. Children and teens attend transformational weekend camps every other month for a year or more. Camp Mariposa builds knowledge, life skills, confidence and provides an opportunity for youth to connect with peers and caring adult mentors.

Here are some top highlights from our experts answering the question, WHY CAMP MARIPOSA:

Talking About Addiction:

“At camp they are riding horses and sitting at a bonfire making s’mores and in those moments they are talking about the addiction. It’s not like sitting in a stale office and I feel like the kids are able to open up more. They are able to have fun, which puts them in a more relaxed state. In a more relaxed state they are able to open up more and grasp more.” Tiffany – Foster Mom

Breaking the Cycle:

“I was able to break those cycles and lucky enough with my own children that they didn’t grow up in that environment. For me to be able to show kids that you have a very happy, successful life without using substances.” Leah – Clinical Director

Building Relationships:

“Being at Mariposa helped me grow my relationships further with the kids that I see every day.” Yasin – Mentor

Camper Growth & Transformation:

“Really from January through December, just the growth of all the campers. I don’t know of one that does now grow.” – Renee – Director

You Are Not Alone:

“It’s been really rewarding watching them talk through some of the experiences that they’ve had with one another. And realize that while their lived experiences are all different from one another, they are not alone.” Matt – Mentor

Reducing the Stigma & Building Awareness:

“Growing up I witnessed in my own family how addiction can overtake someone’s life and how it can really affect the relationships they have with others. There is so much stigma surrounding substance use disorder and addiction. I think the first step to combating that is bringing more awareness to the topic”. Alli – Mentor.

Access to Resources:

“I grew up in a heavily opioid affected community in Kentucky. I saw a lot of loss. I got involved in harm reduction and I wanted to make sure that people who didn’t feel like they had resources or coping skills to avoid substance use had the resources to stay safe.” Shea – Mentor.

Worthy Cause and Caring Community:

“I wanted to volunteer and give back. But, now I just care about the people – a ton. I see that the cause is really worthy and I feel like I’m a fixture at camp. The kids can expect to see my face, say hello, and spend a weekend with me.” Kristina – Clinical Director & Mentor

Mental Health Support:

‘I really love the mission and value of Eluna …especially right now during the opioid crisis and mental health is spiking with COVID. So I think it’s important that we are focusing on making sure that youth, children and even adults are taking care of their mental health as well as their physical health.” Emily – Mentor

Click here for more stories about the positive impact of Camp Mariposa and to see our camp locations!

Click here to see a full list of Expert Voices videos!