Club embraces the innovative free sober gym that has helped more than 28,000 people recover from addiction nationwide

BOSTON, Mass. (April 29, 2019) – The Phoenix, an innovative and free sober active community, announced they have entered into a sponsorship agreement with the 2018 World Champion, Boston Red Sox. The deal includes in-park LED signage at Fenway Park, events and promotions, a ceremonial first pitch, which was thrown by founder Scott Strode at yesterday’s home game, and public service announcements that promote the critical work The Phoenix provides for those in recovery from substance use disorder. This marks the first time the Red Sox have partnered with a nonprofit organization focused on the issue of addiction and recovery, and the only nonprofit sponsor for the current season.

The Phoenix, founded in 2006, has inspired more than 28,000 people across the nation to rise from addiction through the support of those also in recovery. In addition to its flagship location in Boston, The Phoenix recently launched programming in Lowell, MA and also on Cape Cod. Memberships to The Phoenix are free for those seeking recovery, and the only requirement to attend is at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety. Phoenix classes are open and accessible to all skill levels, with the goal of fostering community and helping individuals become less defined by their addiction.

“We have always taken great pride in supporting organizations like The Phoenix that are dedicated to the well-being and advancement of those in need in our community, and beyond,” said Troup Parkinson, Red Sox Executive Vice President for Partnerships. “They have created a powerful community built on compassion, inclusivity and acceptance. We look forward to this partnership and bringing awareness to those struggling with substance use disorder.”

In Massachusetts, there were 1,617 confirmed opioid‐related overdose deaths in 2018. While this is a daunting statistic, the message at The Phoenix is one of hope and perseverance. The sponsorship with the Red Sox will allow The Phoenix to spread its mission of offering hope to those in recovery by emphasizing the philosophy of “Rise as One” centered on the role of community in providing individuals pursuing a sober life with long term support, strength and a new identity.

“I got sober in Boston – steps away from Fenway Park – over 20 years ago and was inspired to share with others the profound affect that physical fitness had on me, combined with surrounding myself with a new group of sober friends. This concept eventually became The Phoenix,” said Scott Strode, Founder and Executive Director of The Phoenix. “We all have a loved one or know someone who has been affected by this disease and what better way to bring awareness and hope to the community then partnering with the Red Sox. Through this unique sponsorship, the Red Sox are helping us to share our mission with the community, remove the stigma and barriers to critical support, and encourage as many people as possible to find a path to recovery.”

Throughout the Sox season, follow #riseasone for news, events and details on how the public can show their support for The Phoenix community. The Phoenix encourages those looking for assistance or simply wanting to learn more to visit the website www.thephoenix.org or follow www.facebook.com/ThePhoenixMassachusetts for local programming. To donate to The Phoenix, which is funded by donations and grants, visit www.thephoenix.org/donation-support.