On December 13 2025, we gathered at The Upstairs at Smoketown Brewing for something truly special. The Sound of Hope: Overdose Awareness Concert was more than a benefit show. It was a night of remembrance, connection, and collective purpose.

December 13 marked two years since our daughter, Trinity Viola Ripley, passed away from a fentanyl overdose. Rather than letting the date be defined by grief alone, we chose to honor her life by bringing people together through music, storytelling, and awareness. What unfolded exceeded every hope we had.

More than 140 people filled the room. They came to listen, to support, to learn, and to stand in solidarity with families impacted by addiction and overdose. Because of that incredible support, the event raised over $6,000, with funds directly supporting the ongoing work of Trinity’s Children.

An Unforgettable Program

The evening opened with powerful student performances from the Let There Be Rock School of Frederick, whose energy and talent set the tone for the night. Their involvement, and their continued support of our son Xander, means more to our family than we can express.

Our band, No Politics, followed with a set that felt deeply personal. One of the most moving moments of the night came when Xander joined us on stage as we dedicated one of Trinity’s favorite songs to her. Seeing phone lights fill the room in that moment is something we will never forget.

The heart of the evening came through the voices of our speakers. We are deeply grateful to Rick Weldon, our MC, who guided the night with authenticity and care.

We were honored by the presence of Mayor Nathan Brown, who spoke about the work being done locally to address the fentanyl crisis and shared kind, heartfelt words about Trinity and our family.

Heather Whitcomb from Phoenix Recovery Academy spoke powerfully about addiction, recovery, and the importance of early intervention. Ranya Baker bravely shared her own journey of recovery, reminding everyone in the room that redemption and hope are real. Carmen Keys from the Boys and Girls Club of Frederick County inspired us all with her commitment to youth and community.

The night closed with an unforgettable performance by our headliners, Nicholas Paré and The JAGS. Their music, their words, and their generosity of spirit brought the evening to a perfect close.

Gratitude Beyond Words

This event would not have been possible without the incredible team at Smoketown Brewing, especially Amy Dudrow and Todd Vaughn, whose hospitality and newly renovated Upstairs space provided the perfect setting. We are also deeply thankful to Smoketown Security Services for ensuring the evening ran smoothly and safely, and to Eric Stuyck of Mile 55 Photography for capturing the moments we will cherish forever.

We are also grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, donors, and every single person who showed up. Your presence mattered. Your support mattered. And your belief in this mission fuels what comes next.

Platinum Sponsors:
Mallick Plumbing
Jay’s People

Gold Sponsors:
Andrea’s House
Silver Dollar Electric
A Craftsman’s Hands

Silver Sponsors:
Galczynski Family
Packin Family
Charbonneau Family
Stepoulos Family
Hough Family
Judy Family
Amell Family
Richard Beachley Jr
Rick Weldon
John Dronenberg

Looking Ahead

Because of the overwhelming response and meaningful impact, Sound of Hope will now be an annual event. We are already planning the 2nd Annual Sound of Hope Concert for Saturday, December 12, 2026, and we cannot wait to build on what we started together.

Sound of Hope reminded us that while addiction and overdose take too much from too many families, community, honesty, and compassion still have the power to save lives.

Thank you for being part of this night. Thank you for honoring Trinity. And thank you for helping us turn loss into purpose.

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