• The 80-acre campground, previously home to One Heartland, is now for sale, reflecting the reduced need due to advancements in HIV treatment and prevention.
• HIV transmission rates have reached historic lows, with less than a 1% chance of mother-to-child transmission in the U.S., thanks to antiretroviral medications and global health efforts.
• One Heartland, founded in 1993 as a refuge for children affected by HIV, served as a sanctuary for 30 years and now transitions its mission as the property looks toward new opportunities.

An 80-acre campground in northern Minnesota, formerly home to One Heartland, is now for sale. This property includes a river, lake, boat ramps, docks, and cabins, and it once served as a summer refuge for children living with or affected by HIV. The sale marks a significant milestone: the reduced need for such a camp highlights the incredible advancements in HIV treatment and prevention.

HIV Transmission Rates Reach Historic Lows

The driving force behind this transition is the dramatic drop in perinatal HIV transmission rates in the United States. With antiretroviral medications, HIV-positive mothers now have less than a 1% chance of transmitting the virus to their children during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This achievement reflects decades of medical innovation and improved access to care. Globally, new HIV infections among children up to age 14 have decreased by 38% since 2015, a testament to international health efforts.

From Tragedy to Triumph: The Origins of One Heartland

One Heartland began in 1993 after Neil Willenson, then a college student, read about a young HIV-positive boy facing stigma and rejection. Determined to create a safe space, Willenson founded the camp as a temporary project. What started as a single summer blossomed into a 30-year mission. Over time, the camp became a sanctuary where children could share their experiences and find unconditional love and acceptance.

In its early years, One Heartland rented campground spaces. However, rejection due to health concerns pushed Willenson to purchase the Willow River property. He raised funds, including contributions from notable supporters like former Minnesota Twins player Paul Molitor, to establish a permanent home for the camp.

Progress Brings New Opportunities

The success of HIV prevention has diminished the need for camps like One Heartland. Children who once traveled from across the United States, often referred by the NIH, now have brighter futures thanks to improved treatments. Willenson expressed gratitude, stating, “That there’s no longer a need for the camp’s original purpose is the greatest story I could have imagined.”

What’s Next for the Campground?

The sale of this historic property opens up new possibilities for its future. Whether repurposed for community use or transformed into another haven, the site remains a symbol of progress and hope.

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If you’re interested in this unique opportunity or want to support similar initiatives, reach out today to learn more about the property's legacy and potential.

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