August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day, and Logan County marked the day with a community event focused on remembrance, awareness, support, and hope.
The annual Logan County Overdose Awareness event was held Monday afternoon in downtown Bellefontaine, on the courthouse lawn and sidewalk.
The family-friendly event brought community members together to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose while highlighting resources available to individuals and families affected by substance use.
Several survivors and community supporters spoke at the event, including Russells Point Deflection Officer Patrick Stolzenburg:
The event included free food, resources and support, activities for children, and free tie-dye T-shirts.
Several local organizations sponsored the event, including Recovery Zone, Community C.O.R.E., Community Health and Wellness Partners, the Logan County Health District, Harwood, ARC, the Logan County Friendly Senior Center, TCN Behavioral Health and Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Services Board.
Dougie Boggs from Recovery Zone talks about the event and who to reach out to if you need assistance:
The Logan County Commissioners also issued the following Proclamation:
WHEREAS, Logan County does affirm and acknowledge the harm and hardship caused by drug overdose; and
WHEREAS, we recognize the purpose of International Overdose Awareness Day as remembering loved ones lost to overdose and working with the community to reduce the risk of drug-related deaths; and
WHEREAS, we resolve to play our part in reducing the toll of overdose in our community, which claimed the lives of more than 91 Logan Co., Ohio, residents since 2017.
WHEREAS, we affirm that the people affected by overdose are our sons and daughters, our mothers and fathers, our brothers and sisters, and deserving of our compassion and support;
THEREFORE, The Logan County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proclaim August 31, 2026.
International Overdose Awareness Day in Logan County, Ohio
Logan County Board of Commissioners
Mr. Joe Antram
Mr. Greg Fitzpatrick
Mr. Michael E. Yoder
International Overdose Awareness Day is observed each year on August 31.
The day is intended to raise awareness about overdose, reduce the stigma surrounding addiction, and remind communities that prevention, treatment, and recovery can save lives.
The message from Monday’s event was simple: Together, we can end overdose.
