John’s Echo, a Pittsburgh-based non-profit organization that supports the unmet needs of those suffering from substance use disorders, today announced the opening of a sober space at Stage AE. Establishing a safe environment to enjoy concerts or connect with like-minded attendees for a substance-free concert experience, the space will serve as a vital refuge for individuals in recovery.

The enclosed area will provide support and resources to those interested, along with a sense of camaraderie for concert attendees in need.

“While Pittsburgh faces a critical public health crisis stemming from substance use disorders and opioid-related overdoses, conventional methods of addressing addiction often fall short, prompting the need for innovative approaches like the sober space,” said Abbie Scanio, John’s Echo board member. “We know that music fosters community, drawing people of diverse backgrounds together, especially in our vibrant city. The concert experience should be one that is safe and healthy for all, including those in recovery.”

By teaming up with Stage AE to offer a sober space, John’s Echo aims to unite individuals who share a passion for music and are committed to their recovery, removing the risks traditionally associated with the prevalence of substances at concerts.

“Stage AE is always striving to be inclusive to all of our attendees, and evolving to fit their needs,” said Scot Steinecker, President of PromoWest and Stage AE. “We are proud to offer the sober sanctuary to ensure everyone enjoying a concert continues to feel included and fully enjoy their time here.”

John’s Echo is inspired to work in the music space by the life, loss and legacy of John Ryan Garrighan, brother and friend of John’s Echo founders. John’s passion for music and unwavering compassion toward others is channeled into the work they do, including this sober, inclusive concert experience.

The sober space will be available to all attendees at Stage AE concerts and does not require a separate ticket. Non-alcoholic beverages and substance abuse resources will be available in the space.

In collaboration with PromoWest, a distinguished concert promoter, John’s Echo is co-sponsoring the space, and will have representatives from the organization available at most concerts.

Scanio continued, “Building supportive relationships and social networks is vital for long-term recovery. However, while music cultivates community, it can also be associated with excessive drinking and drug use. The prevalence of substances at concerts and festivals can trigger individuals in recovery and heighten the risk of relapse. We’re thrilled to work with Stage AE and PromoWest to create an innovative avenue to the recovery journey.”

A non-profit arm of outpatient drug, and alcohol treatment center, JADE Wellness Center, John’s Echo’s mission is to raise money to remove barriers to recovery including transportation, housing, treatment services, prevention, or education.

To learn more about John’s Echo and how to support the organization, visit johnsecho.org.

About John’s Echo

John’s Echo is a registered 501(c)(3) in Allegheny County, PA, whose mission is to support the unmet needs of those within our community suffering from substance use disorders. Substance use disorders (SUD) do not discriminate and affect individuals of all races, gender, age, and nationality. The unfulfilled ancillary needs of those with a substance use disorder are bountiful, with insurance and standardized treatment methodologies only able to address so much. The majority of those we serve desperately want treatment, but face barriers such as lack of safe housing, transportation to treatment, lack of everyday needs and social support. John’s Echo works to bridge these gaps, offering equal support to improve lives, sustain recovery, and reintegrate individuals into the community. It advocates for awareness of addiction as a chronic disease, facilitates treatment access through Certified Recovery Supports, and promotes harm reduction, including Narcan distribution. Formed by individuals actively engaged in addressing substance use disorders, John’s Echo boasts a varied board consisting of members with firsthand and professional expertise in mental health, substance use disorders, and family caregiving.

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