A space to sit
down & breathe
AwareHaus began with a personal turning point
For Emmett Patton, our Founder, sobriety wasn’t just about abstaining—it was about choosing presence and confronting discomfort; re-learning how to connect, feel, and heal without numbing out. Early on, he noticed how few spaces existed where queer people could gather without the pressure to drink or perform. Emmett believed in something deeper: that queer people deserve access to alternative paths for connection and healing. What began as small, substance-free gatherings—meditation, movement, music—grew into a movement for connection, care, and conscious community.
How our work serves the community
Historically, queer social life has centered around nightlife—spaces that offer sanctuary, self-expression, and community, but often come with pressure to drink or use substances. This dynamic has contributed to disproportionately high rates of substance use and mental health struggles in the LGBTQ+ community. AwareHaus exists to expand what queer connection can look like—offering inclusive and safe spaces rooted in care, creativity, and wellbeing.
Why it matters
LGBTQ+ adults are more than twice as likely to use illicit drugs than the general population
LGBTQ+ people face higher rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD—often linked to minority stress, social stigma, and rejection
By shifting the culture and expanding access to healing-centered alternatives, AwareHaus is helping queer people reconnect with themselves and one another.
FAQ(ueerie)s
Explore our frequently asked queeries to learn more.
