Charlie Hernandez, co-founder of JABOR, is known for living large, getting things done, caring about the industry and its roadies, AND giving world-class hugs. Charlie believes that the industry's values—having each other’s backs, caring for the world, and leaving it better—are fundamental to both the industry’s success and the well-being of roadies.

One of JABOR’s core intentions is to support the mental health and well-being of roadies themselves. These are the hardworking individuals who play a vital role behind the scenes, ensuring the success of each live event performance. But despite their invaluable contributions, roadies often face unique challenges, including mental health struggles, depression, anxiety, substance abuse challenges, financial instability, and limited access to healthcare.

The road can be a particularly tough, demanding life, and far too many have fallen victim to its darker side. JABOR’s Charlie’s Hugs program is thus committed to de-stigmatizing mental healthcare and addressing this essential need within our community.

We recognize that providing adequate support to individuals dealing with depression or substance abuse is a monumental task. However, JABOR seeks to provide modest resources to help guide those in need. The fund is designed to support anyone within the live events industry who requires mental health assistance but cannot afford to access it. Our requirements are that you have worked within the industry for at least two years, that you are currently employed in the industry, and that you can prove this.

Through this program, we provide financial assistance and emergency funds to help individuals access the specific support services they need. Participants are responsible for identifying their own service providers, and JABOR will issue payments directly to those providers.

In 2025, our goal is to provide $20,000 in support to roadies in need, and we hope to grow this resource over time. Through this initiative, JABOR aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of industry workers. If this resonates with you, please help us by donating to JABOR.

If you are in need of support yourself and need a modest level of assistance, please contact us HERE. We promise to maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of those seeking our help.

For a higher level of support, we recommend you reach out to Music Cares at

MusiCaresRelief@musicares.org or 800.678.4227.

Emergency Lifeline & Crisis Resources

You are not alone. For emergencies, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call. Text. Chat. (988lifeline.org)