8/17/2021 - The KSAAT inside events scheduled for August 19th and August 26th at the Ramser 4 H Activity Center have been cancelled. This is due in part to the recent increase in COVID cases. However, the outside activities to recognize Overdose Awareness Day are still scheduled to take place.

Observed on the 31st of August each year, International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) seeks to create better understanding of overdose, 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 Tuesday, August 31st to remember those who have died or suffered permanent injury due to drug overdose and support families who have lost their sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters.

The event is set to take place at Heritage Center Park, 404 South Gay Street, Mount Vernon, beginning at 7:00 pm. Attendees are asked to observe social distancing. Several agencies will be available to answer questions and provide resources. Individuals will learn about the life-saving drug Narcan and participants can take home KSAAT's Resource Toolkit that provides resources available in Knox County. 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 encouraged to bring photos.

By holding an event each year, Knox County is a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change. KSAAT thanks the Freedom Center, Hospice of Knox County, Knox Community Hospital, the Main Place and Riverside Recovery for their community partnership. We are all a part of the solution.

KSAAT is a coalition of community members and organizations dedicated to reducing substance abuse among youth and adults in Knox County. For more information or to get involved visit ksaat.org.

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