Lake County Hosts First-Ever “Concert of Hope” to Mark Overdose Awareness Day
MEDIA RELEASE:
Contact: David Schick
The Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board
Phone: 440-350-2193
Email: DSchick@LakeADAMHS.org
For Immediate Release: September 2, 2025
Lake County Hosts First-Ever “Concert of Hope” to Mark Overdose Awareness Day
WILLOUGHBY, Ohio — Over Labor Day weekend, more than 160 community members gathered at The Fine Arts Association in Willoughby for Lake County’s first-ever Concert of Hope, honoring lives lost to overdose, celebrating recovery, and raising awareness of the ongoing impact of addiction.
The free, family-friendly event—held on a perfect, fall-like holiday weekend—was presented in partnership with the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board, the City of Willoughby, the Lake County Commissioners, the Fine Arts Association, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
Attendees enjoyed live performances from Kyle Lorek, a lifelong FAA musician and community music director; Denny Carlton, a Cleveland-based singer-songwriter and author; and headliner Opus 216, the acclaimed string ensemble formed at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Their music filled the air, creating an uplifting atmosphere of reflection, healing, and hope.
Concertgoers also explored creative outlets inside the FAA Gallery, where art therapist Olivia Doty, led activities including Affirmation Magnets and Purple Ribbon Pins to honor loved ones lost to overdose.
Local food trucks added to the celebration. Residents from treatment facilities funded by the ADAMHS Board, along with families and community members, enjoyed meals from Barrio Tacos, The Toasted Bun, and sweet treats from Chris’ Ice Cream Treats.
Kim Fraser, Executive Director of the Lake County ADAMHS Board, reflected on the event’s purpose: “This event is about more than awareness—it’s about creating a space where we can come together as a community to heal, honor, and support each other. Music has a unique ability to connect people, and the Concert of Hope is an uplifting way to show that recovery is possible.”
Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, performers, volunteers, and community members whose support and presence made the Concert of Hope a success.
About the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board
The Lake County ADAMHS Board plans, funds, monitors, and evaluates services available to residents who are living with mental illness and substance use disorders. For more information, please visit www.HelpThatWorks.us.