8/29/2022 - 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 Wednesday, 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 Ariel Foundation Park in Mount Vernon, beginning at 7:30 pm. Education will be provided about Narcan and participants can take home a Narcan kit. Other community 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 one by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

By holding an event each year, Knox County is a part of a global movement for understanding, compassion, and change. KSAAT thanks the Freedom Center, Hospice of Knox County 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.