MISSION

Release Foundation eliminates barriers to sobriety and improved mental health by addressing cost, access, and stigma. We stand with all who are ready to begin their journey toward a life worth living.

Release Gala

Release Foundation 4th Annual GalaThe 4th Annual Release Recovery Foundation Gala is more than a party - it's a powerful night dedicated to raising critical funds to provide life-saving treatment for individuals in need of substance use disorder and mental health treatment. Every ticket and every sponsorship funds scholarships for those who would not otherwise have access to care.

Each year, 600 leaders, advocates, treatment partners, alumni, and supporters from across the country gather at the iconic TAO Downtown united by one mission: to make recovery possible for more people.

This is our biggest night of the year. A room filled with hope and community rooted in service.

2026 Honorees and Special Guests

  • Keep Going Lifetime Achievement Award: Judy Crane and John West, Co-Founders of The Guest House Ocala

  • Keep Going Community Hero Award: Carl Radke, Entrepreneur, Actor, Reality-TV Star from Bravo's Summer House, and Advocate for Recovery

  • A 2 hr DJ Set by Questlove: Academy Award Winner and 6× Grammy Award Winner, drummer and lead vocalist of The Roots, and bandleader on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon

Scholarships

Community

Education

SCHOLARSHIPS

Removing Financial Barriers to Long-Term Recovery

Release Foundation awards scholarships for treatment, sober living, and recovery support so more people can access life-saving care.

Everyone’s path to a healthy, sober life is different. Cost, stigma, and access can stand in the way of care. Release Foundation scholarships reduce the financial burden of treatment. We partner with 30+ trusted, accredited providers nationwide. Our goal is for care to begin immediately.

Release Foundation scholarships are tailored to the individual and can include:

  • Treatment Scholarships – financial support for detox, residential, PHP/IOP

  • Sober Living Support – structured, stable housing

  • Recovery Coaching & Resources – ongoing guidance after treatment

We connect individuals with programs proven to support real, sustainable recovery, not temporary solutions.

 135 

2025 scholarship awardees

 68% 

to underserved communities

 $4M 

awarded since 2020

Gratitude

Scholarships for Recovery

Release Foundation scholarships support people seeking treatment and long-term recovery through funding for:

  • Detox and residential programs

  • Partial hospitalization & outpatient care

  • Sober living housing & recovery coaching

  • Clinically recommended aftercare

Anyone struggling with addiction who needs financial assistance may apply. We prioritize individuals who:

  • Lack adequate insurance

  • Cannot afford structured sober living

  • Need help transitioning after treatment

How to apply?

  1. Review the eligibility requirements

  2. Fill out the form in the section below

  3. A member of our team will reach out in 24 hours.

  4. Provide financial & treatment information during the call.

  5. Submit any supporting documents

  6. Our team reviews your case

  7. You receive an update within 2-5 days

Need Help?

Complete this form or contact us directly at connect@releaserecoveryfoundation.org or (646) 883-6196.

Make an Impact

COMMUNITY

Ethos:

Recovery is a lifelong journey that thrives on connection, accountability, and support. At Release Foundation, we:

  • Build community: Bring together individuals dedicated to lasting recovery.

  • Break stigma: Change how addiction is viewed and treated.

  • Drive impact: Create measurable improvements in sobriety, belonging, and personal growth.

Recovery isn’t just a moment, it’s a movement.

Release Athletics:

Our Community Program fosters long-term recovery through structured wellness, peer mentorship, and alumni engagement. Each year, more than 12,000 individuals participate in sober activities—from basketball tournaments to marathon teams and running clubs—building accountability, purpose, and belonging.

Through our Ambassador Program, former scholarship recipients mentor peers and remain active in their recovery networks. These initiatives ensure that recovery is not a moment, but a movement, creating measurable improvements in sustained sobriety, community connection, and personal growth.

Join the Movement

EDUCATION

No Addiction Stigma

Ending the cycle of addiction means strengthening families, supporting mental health, and providing the knowledge and resources individuals need.

Release Foundation tackles this through education and advocacy programs for students, families, and communities nationwide.

We also invest in organizations transforming underrepresented communities, helping translate materials, supporting families, and guiding young people through addiction and mental health challenges.