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Adapt Integrated Health Care, HIV Alliance, and Douglas Public Health Network are joining forces to host the second annual International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) event on Saturday, August 31st, 2024, from 11 am to 2 pm at the Stewart Park Pavilion. This free community gathering aims to honor those lost to overdose, support grieving loved ones, and provide crucial resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery.
International Overdose Awareness Day, observed globally on August 31st, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of drug overdoses on individuals, families, and communities. In 2023, Oregon lost 1,851 individuals to drug overdose, underscoring the urgent need for awareness, education, and action.
“Together We Can” is the rallying cry for this year’s event, emphasizing the power of community support in addressing the overdose crisis. By bringing people together, the organizers hope to reduce the stigma associated with addiction and overdose while fostering a sense of unity and hope.
Event Highlights:
1. Free BBQ Lunch: Attendees can enjoy a delicious meal while connecting with others in the community.
2. Guest Speakers: Hear inspiring stories and valuable insights from those personally impacted by addiction and recovery.
3. Open Mic: Community members are invited to share their personal experiences, honoring loved ones and offering support to others.
4. Naloxone Training: Learn how to administer this life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
5. Memorial Activities: Participate in meaningful ways to remember and honor those who have been lost to overdose.
6. Family Fun: Engaging activities for all ages to promote a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
7. Resource Sharing: Local organizations will be on hand to provide information about prevention, treatment, and recovery services available in the community.
As an added bonus, the first 200 attendees will receive a free IOAD t-shirt, serving as a visible reminder of the day’s importance and the ongoing fight against overdose.
“We’re excited to bring our community together for this important event,” said Sidnee Hedrick, Prevention Program Manager at Adapt Integrated Health Care. “By offering a welcoming space for remembrance, education, and support, we hope to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by addiction and overdose. Our message is clear: no one is alone in this struggle, and together, we can create positive change.”
The event organizers encourage all community members to attend, regardless of their personal connection to the issue. By fostering understanding and compassion, the event aims to build a stronger, more supportive community for all.
Join us on August 31st at the Stewart Park Pavilion for an afternoon of remembrance, hope, and community spirit. Together, we can honor those we’ve lost, support those who are struggling, and work towards a future free from the tragedy of overdose.
