#United States #mental health #Boston #Phoenix #sober community

The Phoenix Hits Significant Milestone of Over One Million Lives Impacted

On October 8, 2025, The Phoenix, a national nonprofit focused on supporting sober living through community engagement, announced a groundbreaking achievement: it has directly impacted more than one million individuals facing challenges related to substance use or mental health. Founded in 2006 in Denver, The Phoenix has pioneered the concept of a community-based recovery model that brings together participants through various activities, including fitness, creative expression, mindfulness, and social interactions.

The organization operates programs in all 50 states, ensuring that every class and event is free of charge and accessible to anyone who has maintained sobriety for at least 48 hours. By creating environments devoid of stigma, The Phoenix enables individuals to bond, strengthen their mental and physical health, and support one another in their recovery journeys.

Scott Strode, the founder and executive director of The Phoenix, emphasized the depth of this milestone, stating, "One million isn't just a number. It represents one million unique lives, each with their own story." He shared that every person who finds solace and support within The Phoenix contributes to a ripple effect of change within their families, workplaces, and communities.

The Phoenix's success is fueled by the dedication of over 4,000 volunteers, 125 full-time staff members, and generous donors from across the nation. Earlier this year, The Phoenix expanded its impact with the introduction of NewForm, a digital platform designed to reach and engage individuals in recovery and mental wellness wherever they might be, effectively amplifying the sense of connection that fosters long-term recovery.

With nearly 48 million Americans currently grappling with substance use issues, and one in three dealing with either substance use or mental health challenges, the demand for supportive communities has never been more pressing. Research reinforces The Phoenix's approach; a recent study by Texas A&M found that sober communities significantly foster social connections crucial for healing and growth. Furthermore, a 2024 internal study indicated that more than 80% of The Phoenix's members maintained their sobriety three months after becoming involved, contrasting with a 70% relapse rate commonly observed among individuals relying solely on traditional treatment.

Annabelle Lawton, a volunteer from San Jose, CA, shared her heartfelt gratitude for The Phoenix, stating, "I am so grateful that The Phoenix has shown me that it's possible to live a full, joyful life without drugs and alcohol. Volunteering with The Phoenix has been a blessing for my recovery, allowing me to use my skills meaningfully and discover my true purpose. Creating a safe space for others to experience joy and connection has truly deepened my relationship with my community."

As The Phoenix approaches its 20th anniversary, the milestone of impacting one million lives is both a source of pride and an impetus for further action. Strode remarked, "This moment reminds us how much we’ve accomplished but also highlights the journey ahead. We aim to reach 10 million individuals by the end of this decade, and with the support of this vibrant community, I am confident we will achieve this goal."

The effective, recovery-based model of The Phoenix will be featured in the upcoming documentary titled SOBER, set to release in 2026, further spotlighting their transformative impact on the approach to recovery and mental health in society today.

ABOUT THE PHOENIX AND NEWFORM

The Phoenix is an innovative national sober active community that harnesses the power of connection and shared experiences to empower individuals in their recovery journeys. Offering a variety of free programs, including fitness classes, art and music workshops, mindfulness sessions, and social events, The Phoenix welcomes anyone with 48 hours of sobriety. With the advent of NewForm, their mission is accelerated as they digitally connect individuals to supportive recovery and mental wellness communities, fundamentally transforming societal attitudes toward recovery and mental health.