Dating can be tough, especially for those who don’t drink.
“It’s hard to date in LA,” said Samer Saah, who recently marked 10 years of sobriety.
“Being sober and dating can add another layer of difficulty in finding somebody who is sober, or sober curious, or somebody who doesn’t drink, because it’s kind of everywhere.”
Van Ness Recovery House will host a sober speed dating event for gay men this Friday, from 7-9 p.m., at Plummer Park in West Hollywood.
Saah said the night is meant to spark meaningful conversations in a sober and supportive environment.
“We’re so embedded in our mobile devices, with swiping, and liking, and not liking, and that can become a cycle,” he said. “This sober speed dating event will give people an opportunity to meet somebody (face-to-face).”
Registration is $25 and there are a few spots remaining. Click here to register.
Proceeds benefit Van Ness Recovery House, which has centered healing and support for LGBTQ+ people in need since 1973.
The residential addiction treatment and recovery center is undergoing a renovation to help it continue to meet its mission into the future.
Saah said your participation Friday can support your future, too.
“We’re not saying you’re gonna get married or you’re gonna find your life partner, but who knows? You can find somebody who you can, you know, a friend that can develop into something more substantial.”
Plummer Park is at 7377 Santa Monica Blvd., in West Hollywood.
If you can’t attend but would like to make a donation, visit Van Ness Recovery House online.
Copyright © 2026 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved.