Hope and Change: A Joyful Celebration of Recovery in the Matsu Valley
Contributed by Cara Thomas
If you doubt people can change, just listen to someone in recovery share their life story. Behind their success, there’s definitely a wonderful story of hope and transformation! Unfortunately, not everyone recovers, and the loss of a life to addiction is hard felt in the recovery community. However, for those who do recover their success stories serve as beacons of light, illuminating and guiding the way for those who are still on their journey to recovery.
In the eighties, Leonard and Henrietta Nugen had some unique ideas about supporting individuals who struggle with alcoholism, which is now more commonly referred to as substance use disorder or SUD. One of those ideas included the view that work therapy ought to be integrated into the client's comprehensive recovery plan. The Nugens came together with a few visionaries to establish Alaska Addiction Rehabilitation Services, Inc., recognizing that alcoholism is a slow and progressive disease, and that recovery from it follows an equally slow and progressive path. They founded the very first long-term alcoholism treatment program in Alaska, and in December of 1982, they admitted their first client. Since then, their views on effectively treating substance use disorders have created the blueprints and established the foundation for sober living throughout Alaska.
Today, Alaska Addiction Rehabilitation Services, Inc. (AARS) provides a warm and inviting environment for individuals whose lives have been deeply impacted and been severely disrupted by alcohol and/or drugs, including those who have tried other treatment programs without achieving the desired success. AARS, a nonprofit organization, focuses on providing high-quality and evidence-based services for SUD treatment. For the last 42 years, AARS has supported more than 3,400 adults struggling with alcohol or drugs through both residential treatment and outpatient programs.
AARS offers a program that is based on the 12-step recovery model. Clients focus on improving their mental and spiritual well-being by participating in 12-step meetings, attending individual and group therapy sessions, and dedicating time to independent study and reflection. They develop and practice sober living skills, take on community responsibilities, and participate in recreational therapy activities. The program is designed to enhance quality of life, strengthen resilience, facilitate the reintegration of individuals as active, successful, and fully functional community members, and promote connections with their families and lives beyond treatment. AARS understands that for a rehabilitative program to be effective, scheduled activities need to be customized to inspire and support positive changes for clients. We are committed to providing client-centric services that prioritize the needs of our clients, supporting them on their journey to recovery, health, and overall well-being, along with that of their families.
AARS has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), which is an international independent nonprofit organization that focuses on health and human services in the Behavioral Health sector. They help providers enhance the quality of their services by implementing specific quality standards. AARS focuses on education, life experience, credentialing, and clinical supervision, which helps to create a unique recovery environment. The leadership team of AARS combines over 50 years of experience working with this population. Clients at AARS find hope in the company of those who have successfully overcome the challenging journey of substance abuse disorder and have emerged stronger on the other side.
Bridget Akerley, Director of Clinical Operations, was recently recognized at the Alaska Behavioral Health Association (ABHA) Fall Conference for her contributions as a talented leader in the field of behavioral health and the treatment of substance use disorder. She was honored with the Shining Star award for her creative ideas and valuable contributions to improving the system of care. “My personal journey in recovery from substances sparked a passion for improving care for others. The program at AARS is heart-based, our strength is to walk alongside others in their journey toward healing, understanding, and growth. It’s a commitment to breaking stigmas, embracing compassion, and fostering resilience in the face of life’s challenges. True passion lies not only in providing care but in empowering others to find their own strength and peace.”
AARS is located on 116 acres of farmland in Point Mackenzie, surrounded by mountains and nestled in the beauty of the Matsu Valley. AARS proudly owns and operates the property known as Nugen’s Ranch. Every day, our wonderful staff and clients labor together to maintain the property, greenhouse, gardens, and livestock. They work hard to produce meat, fresh hay, nutritious vegetables, and beautiful flowers that you can find for sale at the Friday Fling in Palmer, the Wasilla Farmers Market, and our roadside stand on Port Mackenzie Road.
Next month, AARS is excited to celebrate and honor their founders and mark 42 years of offering support and hope to those who suffer from substance use disorder.
Alaska Addiction Rehabilitation Services, Inc. (AARS) invites you to join us for our Founders’ Day Celebration! Come join us for a delicious free BBQ lunch and have a chance to win some fun raffle prizes, all while fellowshipping with our clients and the recovery community at our facility! Join us for an AA Speaker’s Meeting with Bill C. from California, happening from 4 to 5 pm. We’d love to see you there!
AARS Founders' Day Celebration on
Saturday, December 7th, between 1 pm and 5 pm
26731 W. Point Mackenzie Road