Individualized Support Through Meaningful Relationships

At The Grounds, we address the whole person, not just the substance use. We want our members to see how much bigger and fuller their lives can be. An increased focus on physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual health allows our members to envision a full life that is self-directed, satisfying and joyous. We challenge our members to work on themselves, focus on their process and goals and have fun doing it! By rising to the challenges presented, they start to see and realize their full potential. By experiencing compassionate care, increased responsibility and hope, they develop the foundation necessary for independent healthy living. We know it’s possible, and we invite you to join us!

We’re intentionally small to allow for more personal attention, individualized programming and increased accountability. We want our home to feel like your home – not a program, institution, or facility. With a handful of roommates, you have space and support to learn and grow. We want you and your roommates to support, celebrate and hold each other accountable so that you develop meaningful relationships that can last a lifetime. We schedule group activities, field trips, community meals, house meetings, sober anniversary parties, graduations and alumni events to help nurture these relationships and celebrate life’s moments together.

The Continuum of Care

Statistics show that young adults in particular are more likely to stay in recovery if they participate in a continuum of care that allows them to progress towards independence in measurable steps. Within the small, intimate community at Mare’s House, we provide just that. We offer the structure and progressive independence necessary to challenge, motivate and support each individual’s growth and pursuits. With mentorship, peer-to-peer relationships, clinical supports and community immersion, goals are set and achieved.

A Letter from Alex Zemeckis

CEO of The Grounds

Dear Future Grounds Member,

I want to personally convey that I completely understand where you’re at because I’ve been there myself. I’ve suffered plenty due to chronic relapses, both from substances and debilitating behaviors that led me to dark and sad places. Whether you are currently in primary treatment or stabilization…I’ve been there. I know all the feelings that are associated with jumping into a program: fear, anxiety, excitement, frustration, etc. Even though this feels terminally unique to you, the fact is you are right where you are supposed to be. I took the same challenge, and luckily, I have long-term recovery today with an incredibly full life. I got sober young, just like you. At the age of 22, I was done. Done with suffering, done with self-hatred. I was ready to experience all the things people and professionals told me I’d achieve once I went down the path of recovery that I resisted for so long. It takes time, trust, and patience, and then it happens. All we are asking for at The Grounds is willingness. Six months is a long time…I get that, but none of this work happens overnight. Give yourself the time, and just know that it gets easier and easier the longer you stay in the program. Before you know it, you’ve graduated. Every graduation ceremony I’ve attend guys say how long it felt committing, yet it flew by.



I can only articulate so much of your experience. In order to fully understand, you will have to jump in with both feet and trust the process. I know it’s easier said than done, but trust that it only goes up from here. You get out what you put in. The Grounds is ready to support you if only you are ready to support yourself.

Best, Alex Zemeckis

A Letter from the Program Director

Cannon Kristofferson, CADC II

Welcome to The Grounds and to an environment tailored for individuals looking to leap with both feet forward into a life of purpose and happiness. I grew up here in San Diego, and throughout my own journey, I have learned that having a solid continuum of care in a structured setting is the foundation in which change can start to happen. Being accountable not only to ourselves, but to the other Grounds members improves self-esteem, gives purpose, and bolsters positive interpersonal relationships. At the start of this journey, relationships with friends, loved ones, and family members are often strained but by working on our own self-identity and working toward becoming a productive member within our society, these relationships can and will heal.

I have worked extensively with a myriad of diverse populations within the recovery community from diagnosed behavioral issues to PTSD and chronic relapse. I look forward to working with each of you, as individuals to determine the best course of action to take and be of support on your journey. I am a firm believer in fun. We here at The Grounds incorporate a lot of outdoor activities as well as varying types of clinical support to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and helping you reach your goals as they grow and change throughout your recovery.

Sincerely, Cannon Kristofferson

Share Our Program Information!

Do you have a friend, family member, or therapeutic client who might benefit from The Grounds Recovery program? Download and share our one-sheet for at-a-glance house details, program basics and admissions criteria.