WQIO Ohio's Super Station
Two upcoming community events in Mount Vernon will bring residents together to remember those lost to suicide and overdose while connecting families with support, resources and hope.
The events come as local organizations continue working to address mental health, substance use and the impact those issues can have on individuals and families throughout Knox County.
Overdose Awareness Day Event Set for Monday
The Freedom Center and community partners will host an International Overdose Awareness Day event Monday, August 31, at Ariel Foundation Park.
The event begins at 5 p.m. and will remember people who have died or suffered permanent injury because of drug overdose, while providing support for families who have lost loved ones.
Several local organizations will be represented, including The Freedom Center, Knox Public Health, Knox Recovery, New Directions, Municipal Probation, Rooted In Recovery, The Main Place, Afterglow and New Vision.
Family members and friends will have an opportunity to share stories during the gathering, followed by a moment of silence honoring those who have been lost.
The evening will conclude with the Ariel Foundation Park tower illuminated in purple, symbolizing awareness of overdose and its effects.
Organizers say International Overdose Awareness Day is intended to increase understanding of overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding drug-related deaths and encourage changes that can reduce the harms associated with drug use.
The event is free and open to members of the community.
Suicide Loss Survivor Dinner Planned for September
Another local event will focus specifically on people who have been affected by suicide loss.
A Suicide Loss Survivor and Awareness Dinner is scheduled for Wednesday, September 10, at 6 p.m. at the Ramser 4-H Activity Center, 700 Perimeter Drive, Mount Vernon.
The dinner is designed to provide an opportunity for survivors and others affected by suicide loss to come together in an atmosphere focused on support, understanding, hope and remembrance.
The featured speaker will be Karen Austin of the Franklin County Loss Team.
A $10 donation is requested from those attending, with the event intended to help provide support and awareness for people affected by suicide loss.
Reservations are required for the dinner.
A Focus on Connection and Support
Although the two events address different issues, organizers say both provide opportunities for people to come together rather than face loss or difficult circumstances alone.
The overdose-awareness gathering will connect attendees with local organizations and resources while remembering those whose lives have been affected by overdose. The September dinner will provide a more focused setting for people grieving a death by suicide.
Together, the events highlight the resources available in Knox County and the importance of community support for families dealing with loss.
The International Overdose Awareness Day event is Monday, August 31, at 5 p.m. at Ariel Foundation Park.
The Suicide Loss Survivor and Awareness Dinner is Wednesday, September 10, at 6 p.m. at the Ramser 4-H Activity Center. Reservations are required.
