Reflecting On 20 Years

A Journey of Impact and Growth

As I sit down to reflect on the past two decades of nonprofit work with StartSober, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and awe at the journey we’ve traveled together. From humble beginnings in Athens, Georgia, to a regional presence with branches in Alabama and Tennessee, the growth of this organization has been nothing short of remarkable.

We began with a vision: to help individuals embrace an alcohol-free lifestyle and to build communities that celebrate purpose and connection. Back then, we were just a small team of five passionate volunteers, hosting events and starting conversations that we hoped would spark change. Little did we know the ripple effect those efforts would have.

Today, 20 years later, StartSober has expanded its reach to touch over 100,000 lives. Through our work in prevention, we’ve built a movement that empowers people to make healthier choices and equips them with tools to live with intention and joy.

Our journey has not been without challenges. Nonprofit work often feels like a balance between dreaming big and navigating practical constraints. But through every high and low, the stories of lives transformed have been our guiding light. Stories of students finding confidence to lead alcohol-free lifestyles, of families strengthened by a shared commitment to sobriety, and of communities coming together to support one another—all of these remind us why we started.

As we’ve grown, so has our team. From five volunteers to an incredible network of 95 dedicated individuals, the heart of StartSober has always been its people. Each volunteer, staff member, and partner brings their unique talents and passion to our mission, helping us create events, programs, and experiences that leave a lasting impact.

Reflecting on the lives we’ve touched, I’m reminded that StartSober’s mission is not just about this generation—it’s about the next. We are shaping a culture where living alcohol-free is celebrated, where young people grow up with role models who show them that sobriety is a pathway to purpose, and where the strength of our communities shines through in their ability to support and uplift.

Looking to the future, we have big dreams. By 2035, we hope to expand StartSober to 16 offices, reaching even more individuals and communities with our message of hope and prevention. Achieving this vision will require bold action, careful planning, and—most importantly—the support of people like you.

To our volunteers, donors, and supporters: your belief in this mission has been the foundation of our success. But as we aim to grow, we need your help now more than ever. Your support can help us open new offices, train volunteers, and develop programs that will continue to transform lives for years to come.

As we celebrate 20 years, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this journey. To the individuals and families we’ve served: your stories inspire us to keep moving forward, dreaming bigger, and striving for even greater impact.

The road ahead is bright. Together, we can reach new heights, build stronger communities, and ensure that living alcohol-free remains a celebrated and sustainable choice.

Here’s to the next 20 years of purpose, growth, and lives changed—and to building a future where the StartSober movement thrives in 16 offices and beyond.

— The StartSober Team