AADAP (Asian American Drug Abuse Program) hosted the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony for “Mickle’s House” on Nov. 24, marking a major milestone in the organization’s ongoing mission to provide compassionate, community-rooted substance use treatment and recovery services across Los Angeles.
Mickle’s House — named in honor of Phyllis Mickle, one of AADAP’s most influential early champions — represents AADAP’s continued commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces where individuals and families can heal, rebuild, and thrive. The dedication brought together elected officials, funders and partners, community leaders, supporters, clients, staff, and program alumni to celebrate a new chapter in AADAP’s service to the community.
The event featured remarks from:
Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell (District 2)
Dr. Kevin Burns, director, L.A. County Department of Public Health — Substance Abuse Prevention and Control (SAPC)
Mike Yoshiba, chairman, AADAP Board of Directors
Sam Joo, AADAP CEO
AADAP staff and program participant.
The event included a dedication presentation featuring the voice of former AADAP CEO Mike Watanabe in recognition of Phyllis Mickle’s impact, followed by a formal ribbon-cutting and guided tours of the newly dedicated space.
“Mickle’s House shows what is possible when we invest in dignity, equity, and the potential of mothers and their families,” said Mitchell. “This is also a celebration of intentional collaboration between government, philanthropy, and community partners. I am proud that L.A. County’s Department of Public Health’s Substance Abuse Prevention and Control team will contribute to the comprehensive services residents can access, and I look forward to families finding the safety and stability they need to heal and access housing.”
“Mickle’s House is a place where compassionate relationships meet clients where they are, offering on-site and coordinated services that blend substance use treatment, mental health support, case management, and parenting services,” said Burns. “AADAP has been an anchor institution in Los Angeles for over 50 years, and Mickle’s House represents another transformative partnership between AADAP and SAPC—expanding treatment access, recovery housing, the prevention of family separation, and economic mobility for women in recovery. It gives women and their children the foundation they deserve.
“The county is proud to support this work, because when mothers are given the chance to heal with their children by their side, our entire community grows stronger. Congratulations to AADAP on this incredible achievement, and thank you for your unwavering partnership in building a healthier, more equitable Los Angeles.”
“Recovery is a journey, not a moment — and no mother should walk that journey without her child. Mickle’s House ensures they can move forward together,” said Joo.
Mickle’s House is AADAP’s newest recovery and housing program for mothers and their children, offering client engagement, peer support, family services, and community linkages. Designed with a person-centered approach, it provides a safe, welcoming environment for families navigating recovery and healing.
Founded in 1972, AADAP empowers individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use disorders through transformative, culturally competent programs promoting recovery, opportunity, justice, and wellness. Serving South Los Angeles and beyond, AADAP impacts over 20,000 lives each year — guided by its philosophy: People Need People.
Info: aadapinc.org