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International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is observed each year to raise awareness of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths, and inspire lasting change in how communities support those affected by substance use.
This year, the Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) invites the community to join together for “End Overdose in Knox County” on Saturday, August 30, 2025, to remember lives lost, support survivors, and stand in solidarity with families impacted by addiction.
The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. on the lawn of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, located at 501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon.
Event Agenda
- 5:30 p.m. – Welcome & Reading of Proclamations
- 5:45 – 7:00 p.m. – Resource Tables & Refreshments
- 7:00 p.m. – Community Walk to Rastin Tower
- 7:10 – 7:30 p.m. – Testimonials & Prayer
- 7:35 – 7:45 p.m. – Reading of names lost to overdose
- 8:00 p.m. – Tower Lighting & Moment of Silence
Throughout the evening, attendees will hear personal stories from community members, receive education on Narcan, the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication, and can take home a free Narcan kit. Local organizations will host resource tables, and refreshments will be available by donation.
As the sun sets, participants will walk the illuminated bike path from the Chamber to Rastin Tower at Ariel-Foundation Park. The evening will conclude with a moment of silence and the lighting of Rastin Tower in purple, symbolizing remembrance, recovery, and hope.
“We invite you to stand with us as we recognize and honor stories of both tragedy and triumph in our community,” said Tina Cockrell, representative from KSAAT. “Together, we can raise awareness, support healing, and shine a light on the path to recovery.”
Families who have lost a loved one to overdose are encouraged to submit a tribute online to be included in the evening’s remembrance:
https://airtable.com/appGYcA6wdvrp…/pagOdJhUPDq6FY305/form
About KSAT
The Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) is a coalition of dedicated community members and organizations working collaboratively to reduce substance use among youth and adults in Knox County. For more information or to get involved, visit www.ksaat.org.
Tina Cockrell (she/her)
Division Director
Public Health Education and Nursing
Office (740) 392-2200 ext. 2229
Cell (567) 694-1363
11660 Upper Gilchrist Rd., Mount Vernon, OH 43050
knoxhealth.com facebook.com/knoxhealth
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