WILLOUGHBY, Ohio — Despite rainy weather that moved the event indoors, approximately 70 community members gathered this weekend for Lake County’s second annual Concert of Hope at The Fine Arts Association, joining together to honor lives lost to overdose, celebrate recovery, and raise awareness about the resources available to individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

The free, family-friendly event was held in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day (August 31) and presented through a partnership among the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board, the City of Willoughby, the Lake County Commissioners, Tour Lake County, The Fine Arts Association, and the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health.

Attendees enjoyed live performances by 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 founded at the Cleveland Museum of Art. The evening’s music was curated by the Fine Arts Association’s Music Therapy Program, which is supported in part through funding from the Lake County ADAMHS Board. Together, the performances created an atmosphere of reflection, healing, and hope for individuals, families, and communities impacted by addiction.

Inside the FAA Gallery, art therapist Olivia Doty led interactive activities, including the creation of Affirmation Magnets and Purple Ribbon Pins, offering attendees meaningful opportunities to honor loved ones lost to overdose and express support for recovery.

Local food trucks helped create a welcoming community atmosphere. Residents from ADAMHS-funded treatment and recovery programs, along with families and community members, enjoyed offerings from Bistro 70, Cleveland Street Food, and Chris’ Ice Cream Treats.

Kimberly 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 people can come together as a community to heal, remember, and support one another. Music has a unique ability to connect people, and the Concert of Hope is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible and hope remains strong in Lake County.”

Organizers expressed their gratitude to the sponsors, performers, volunteers, community partners, and attendees whose support helped make the event possible. The Lake County ADAMHS Board and its partners remain committed to continuing the Concert of Hope and look forward to building on its mission of promoting recovery, reducing stigma, and connecting residents with life-saving resources during next year’s event.

Art Therapy is going on, making bracelets.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.