Rise Drug Free MKE Coalition Marks International Overdose Awareness Day
Milwaukee – International Overdose Awareness Day is observed on August 31 each year to raise awareness of the public health crisis of substance misuse and overdose.
To remember and grieve the lives lost and support survivors of overdose, the RISE Drug Free MKE coalition invites the community to our 9th Annual International Overdose Awareness Day observance events. Our theme this year is Driven by Hope, a reminder that the work being done in our community is making a difference. The momentum must continue.
Data presented on the Milwaukee County Overdose Dashboard show the stark impact the overdose crisis has had on our community. When RISE Drug Free MKE began observing International Overdose Awareness Day in 2017, 401 people had died that year as a result of overdose in Milwaukee County. The number of fatal overdoses increased sharply with the widespread presence of fentanyl, peaking in 2022 with 674 drug overdose deaths in Milwaukee County. Fortunately, overdose deaths fell to 652 in 2023 and to 450 fatal overdoses in 2024, a 30% decrease.
While the statistics should leave us feeling optimistic, there is still a lot of work to be done.
“We’re encouraged that fewer individuals and families are harmed by these highly lethal substances in our community, thanks to an all-hands-on-deck effort to provide materials to prevent overdose, treat overdose, and help people get into recovery,” said Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski, who also serves as the Chair of the RISE Drug Free MKE coalition. “But we don’t want to become complacent, and we absolutely support people who are grieving the loss of a loved one or struggling with substance issues.”
The RISE Drug Free MKE community coalition is proud to host events in honor of International Overdose Awareness Day. All are welcome to attend these free events.
Healing Together, Driven by Hope
Mitchell Park Pavilion, 524 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee | Friday, August 29 | 5-8 p.m.
Healing Together, Driven by Hope is a community-focused event dedicated to promoting healing and supporting those who are grieving. This gathering aims to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals and families affected by overdose, as well as those seeking to understand and cope with their grief.
Activities include:
- Poetry Station
- Typewriting Station
- Yoga
- Picture Printing Station
- Library Pop-Up
- Affirmation Memorial Rock Station
- Local Resources
Resources will be available from: Community Advocates Public Policy Institute, Community Medical Services, Escucha tus Emociones, Milwaukee County Parks, Nar-Anon Family Groups, Rogers Behavioral Health, Samad’s House, and Sigue Sanando Studio.
International Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event: Driven by Hope
Washington Park Areas 2 & 3, 1859 N. 40th St., Milwaukee | Sunday, August 31 | 5-7:30 p.m.
The International Overdose Awareness Day Memorial Event is a heartfelt gathering aimed at showing love, support, and healing for those affected by the devastating loss of loved ones due to substance misuse, as well as the survivors of overdose. This event is a space for community solidarity, remembrance, and hope.
Activities include:
- Inspiring Speakers
- Dedication Station
- Candlelight Memorial Vigil
The event is sponsored by City of Milwaukee Health Department, HIR Wellness Institute, Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services, Milwaukee County Parks, Community Advocates Public Policy Institute, RISE Drug Free MKE.
At dusk, we encourage friends and family to join the RISE Drug Free MKE coalition members near the Summerfest parking lot facing Erie Street to view the Hoan Bridge light up purple to honor International Overdose Awareness Day 2025.
In addition, RISE Drug Free MKE coalition partners will be providing resources and information about overdose prevention and intervention at Milwaukee City Hall, 200 E. Wells St., Milwaukee, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday, August 25, to Friday, August 29, to support people who are impacted by substance misuse.
To learn more, go to risedrugfreemke.org.
The RISE Drug Free MKE coalition raises awareness of substance (mis)use, and, through inclusive education, elevates our entire community, from our youth to our elders, out of the harms caused by substance (mis)use. RISE Drug Free MKE prioritizes policies, practices, and programs that address major substance use issues in our community, including marijuana use among youth, problematic drinking, and prescription drug (mis)use. The coalition is convened by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute with the financial support of Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Services and other funders.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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