WERU Community Radio

Overdose Awareness Day event
2026-08-31 17:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Knowlton Park, 160 State St, Ellsworth, ME, 04605, United States
In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, Healthy Acadia’s INSPIRE Recovery Community Center will host a community remembrance event Monday, Aug. 31, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Knowlton Park on State Street in Ellsworth. The free event is open to all.
Community members are invited to gather in remembrance, honor those we have lost, and show support for the families and communities impacted by overdose. The event will feature a special butterfly tribute honoring the 390 Mainers who died from overdose in 2025.
A community memory board will be available for attendees to share messages, photos and memories in honor of loved ones. The event will also offer overdose prevention and harm reduction resources, including free naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl and xylazine test strips, and information about recovery support.
Naloxone is a safe, lifesaving medication that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. It has no harmful effect on someone who is not experiencing an opioid overdose.
“Overdose touches families and communities in ways that are difficult to put into words,” said Amber Kennedy, INSPIRE Center Manager. “This gathering gives us an opportunity to remember the people we have lost, support one another, and make sure our community has access to resources that can save lives.”
Healthy Acadia’s INSPIRE Recovery Community Center, located at 24 Church St. in Ellsworth, provides a welcoming community space where people in recovery can connect with one another and access support. The center serves as a hub for recovery meetings, recovery coaching, and programs and services that support health and well-being.
For more information about the event or to learn about overdose prevention and recovery resources, contact INSPIRE Recovery Community Center at 207-412-2288. Follow INSPIRE on Facebook or Instagram.
Healthy Acadia is a 501(c)(3) community health organization working to build vibrant communities and make it easier for people throughout Hancock and Washington counties to lead healthy lives. For more information about Healthy Acadia’s programs and services, visit healthyacadia.org.
