Youth VOICE Council Spotlight: Aubrey

In this interview, we spotlight a passionate youth advocate who is leading the charge to eliminate stigma. Though some sections have been lightly edited, it is otherwise presented in their own words. Learn more about SAFE Project’s volunteer program, including our Youth VOICE Council.

At just 18 years old, Aubrey Coates has become a powerful voice in the fight against addiction stigma. A senior at Woodgrove High School in Purcellville, Virginia, she is using her personal experience to create awareness and change in her community. We sat down with Aubrey to discuss her journey, her advocacy work, and her vision for the future.

Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your background?

My name is Aubrey Coates, and I’m 18 years old. I’m a senior at Woodgrove High School in Northern Virginia. I got involved with SAFE Project around July of 2023, after losing my brother, Mason, to an accidental fentanyl overdose. Since then, I’ve been working to break the stigma surrounding addiction in my hometown, where it’s a topic many people avoid discussing.

What inspired you to take action and get involved with SAFE Project?

Losing my brother was incredibly difficult, especially because none of my peers had experienced something similar. I felt isolated, and I wanted to find a way to channel my grief into something positive. SAFE Project gave me that opportunity. I only wish I had found it earlier, so I could have had that support during my brother’s active addiction.

You recently held an event at your school on International Overdose Awareness Day. Can you talk about that?

Yes—it was one of my biggest events. At a high school football game, we set up an informational table at the field entrance with pamphlets, bracelets, and overdose awareness materials. We also held a moment of silence for those lost to overdose—including Mason—and placed luminaries around the field. Each one represented hope in dark times and the guiding light of love and remembrance. It was a powerful moment.

You can read more about the event in this article from the Loudoun Now.

Have you faced any challenges or stigma from your peers?

Yes, unfortunately. Some people have made hurtful comments, like, ‘At least my brother didn’t die of an overdose.’ It’s been tough, but I’ve learned to not take it personally. That kind of judgment says more about them than it does about me. I just try to stay confident and focus on making a difference.

Have you seen any positive impact from your efforts?

Definitely. Even months after the event, I still see students wearing the bracelets I handed out. They might not realize it, but to me, that’s a sign of support. It’s little things like that that keep me motivated.

Why do you think it’s important for young people to be involved in this issue?

Overdoses happen in high schools every day. If everyone assumes someone else will speak up, then no one will. Hearing about this issue from a peer is much more impactful than hearing it from an adult online. That’s why it’s so important for youth to be involved in these conversations.

What does it mean to you to keep your brother’s memory alive through your advocacy?

It means everything. I want people to remember Mason’s name for years to come. At the football game, I put up pictures of him, and teachers recognized him and shared stories. That connection was really special. The moment of silence for him during the game was also incredibly moving. To hear an entire stadium go quiet in his honor—it was something I’ll never forget.

How has your family responded to your advocacy work?

They were shocked at first because I planned everything on my own, but once they saw the impact, they were really supportive. They still talk about how powerful it was to hear the crowd go silent for Mason.

What are your future plans, and how do you see your advocacy continuing?

I’ll be going to college next year, and I want to continue working with SAFE Project. Wherever I go, I want to bring this awareness with me and help reduce overdoses on campus. This work has become such an important part of my life, and I hope to make a career out of it one day.

What advice would you give to other young people who want to get involved in advocacy?

Don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s hard at first, but once you do, it gets easier. It feels incredible to know you’ve made a difference. If you have the opportunity to turn something painful into something meaningful, take it.

Through her bravery and determination, Aubrey Coates is showing that young voices matter in the fight against addiction stigma. Her story is a powerful reminder that even one person can create change—and that speaking up can turn grief into a force for good.