Collingwood

Join the Opportunities Program in partnership with Tracks Employment & Resource Services on August 31st as we come together to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day, a global day of remembrance, awareness, education, and action.

The event will begin at 1:00 PM with a flag-raising ceremony and an official proclamation by the Mayor of Collingwood, who will formally declare August 31st as Overdose Awareness Day in the Town of Collingwood. This act of recognition highlights the importance of community awareness, compassion, and collective action in addressing the ongoing overdose crisis and supporting those affected by substance use.

Attendees will hear from guest speakers with lived experience, whose stories will offer insight into the realities of substance use, recovery, loss, resilience, and hope. Their voices help foster understanding and encourage meaningful conversations that challenge stigma and promote inclusion.

Throughout the community, purple chairs will be displayed as powerful symbols of remembrance for those who have lost their lives to toxic drug poisoning and overdose. These installations are intended to spark reflection, awareness, and dialogue about the impact of the overdose crisis on individuals, families, and communities. A featured purple chair will also be exhibited at the Collingwood Public Library.

The event will provide opportunities for community education on overdose prevention and response, including information on recognizing the signs of an overdose and the importance of carrying and administering Naloxone (Narcan). Attendees will receive tote bags containing Naloxone kits and other valuable community resources to help increase awareness, preparedness, and access to support.

As a visible symbol of solidarity and remembrance, the Collingwood Clock Tower will be illuminated purple on the evening of August 31st and for three nights following, honouring those we have lost, supporting those impacted by substance use, and demonstrating the community’s commitment to reducing overdose-related deaths.

Together, we aim to raise awareness, honour lives lost, support individuals and families affected by substance use, and help end the stigma that prevents many people from seeking help. Through education, compassion, and community action, we can create a safer, more supportive community where every life is valued.

Everyone is welcome to attend as we stand together to remember, educate, reduce stigma, and advocate for change.