The Phoenix Marks a Milestone: Over One Million Lives Transformed
The Phoenix transforms recovery through community, connection, and shared purpose
The Phoenix, a national nonprofit dedicated to creating a sober active community, has crossed an extraordinary threshold by impacting more than one million people facing challenges related to substance use and mental health.
Since its inception in 2006 in Denver, The Phoenix has introduced a unique community-driven approach to recovery. This approach focuses on uniting individuals through fitness activities, creative outlets, mindfulness practices, and meaningful social interactions. With a presence in all 50 states, The Phoenix ensures that every class and event offered is free and open to anyone who has achieved at least 48 hours of sobriety. By fostering environments free from stigma, The Phoenix is changing the narrative of recovery, allowing people to flourish both mentally and physically.
Scott Strode, the founder and executive director of The Phoenix, emphasized the importance of this milestone. "One million isn't just a number. It's one million unique lives, each with their own story," he explained. His heartfelt sentiment reflects the foundational belief of The Phoenix that every individual's recovery journey contributes to a broader impact in their families, workplaces, and communities. This interconnectedness is where true transformation begins.
Driving this impactful movement are over 4,000 dedicated volunteers, 125 full-time staff members, and countless donors from all corners of the nation. Recently, The Phoenix further enhanced its reach with the launch of NewForm, a digital platform that brings its community model online. NewForm connects individuals to recovery networks and mental wellness communities, ensuring everyone can access the support and belonging necessary for sustaining long-term recovery.
The urgency for connection is underscored by staggering statistics, with nearly 48 million Americans grappling with substance use disorders and one in three facing mental health challenges. Multiple studies support the efficacy of The Phoenix's approach; research from Texas A&M illustrates that community-driven recovery frameworks, like that of The Phoenix, foster the most conducive environments for building social bonds that aid in healing. The organization's internal data from a recent study suggests that over 80% of participants maintain sobriety three months into their involvement, a significant advancement compared to the roughly 70% relapse rate observed in conventional treatment modalities.
Annabelle Lawton, a volunteer from San Jose, California, shared her gratitude for The Phoenix: "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 and allows me to use my skills meaningfully. Creating a safe space for fun and health has deeply connected me to my community, and I’m proud to offer these experiences to others with the help of The Phoenix."
As The Phoenix approaches the milestone of its 20th anniversary, celebrating the impact on one million lives also serves as a call to action for the future.
Strode reflects on this moment while looking forward with intention. "This moment reminds us how far we've come, but also how much further we must go," he shares. The organization has ambitious plans to reach 10 million individuals by the end of this decade, and with the unwavering support of its community, there is great optimism for achieving this goal.
The impactful model of The Phoenix will also be showcased in the much-anticipated documentary titled SOBER, which is set for release in 2026.
About The Phoenix and NewForm
The Phoenix serves as a nationwide sober active community that harnesses the power of connection and shared experiences to support individuals in rising, recovering, and flourishing. Its array of programs includes fitness classes, artistic and musical activities, mindfulness practices, and social events—all at no cost for those with 48 hours of sobriety. NewForm further propels this mission by digitally extending The Phoenix's model, connecting individuals to recovery and mental wellness networks, thereby building a robust movement that reshapes societal views towards recovery and mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Phoenix's mission?
The Phoenix aims to transform recovery by fostering a sober active community through fitness, creativity, mindfulness, and social connection.
How many lives has The Phoenix impacted?
The Phoenix has officially impacted over one million lives, providing support to those facing substance use and mental health challenges.
What programs does The Phoenix offer?
It offers various programs, including fitness classes, art and music activities, mindfulness practices, and social events, all free for individuals with at least 48 hours of sobriety.
How does NewForm enhance The Phoenix's mission?
NewForm is a digital platform that extends The Phoenix's community-based model online, making recovery support accessible to more individuals.
What is the future goal of The Phoenix?
The Phoenix aims to reach 10 million individuals impacted by the end of this decade, building on their current successes.
