Observed on Aug. 31 each year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) proponents seek to create a better understanding of overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and create change to reduce the harms associated with drug use.

The Knox Substance Abuse Action Team (KSAAT) invites the Knox County community to come together on Aug. 31 to remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to a drug overdose and support families who have lost their sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters.

The event is set to take place at Ariel-Foundation Park in Mount Vernon at 7:30 p.m. NARCAN education will be provided, and participants can take home a NARCAN kit as well as a KSAAT Resource Toolkit. Other organizations will also be available to provide education and resources. The event will conclude with the Rastin Tower, footbridge and viaduct being illuminated in purple to symbolize awareness of overdose and its effects. Family members who have lost a loved one are welcome to submit a tribute to their loved ones.

Find the online form here: https://bit.ly/3PdKH3j.