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Commemoration at Recovery Together ENC for International Day of Overdose Remembrance

Recognized event on August 31: International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), a worldwide initiative aimed at eliminating overdose. It offers a chance to remember cherished individuals.

Commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day, Recovery Together ENC pays tribute
Commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day, Recovery Together ENC pays tribute

Commemoration at Recovery Together ENC for International Day of Overdose Remembrance

On August 31, the global community observes International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), a poignant occasion dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives to overdose, offering support to those affected, and raising awareness about overdose prevention. This year, the theme is "One big family, driven by hope," emphasising the far-reaching impact of overdose crises on individuals, families, and entire communities.

In Kinston, North Carolina, the Recovery Together ENC Center is playing a significant role in these efforts. This community hub, located at 115 East North Street, participates in IOAD by organising community-based activities aligned with the day's goals. Although specific details about their 2025 participation are not yet available, centres like Recovery Together ENC typically hold remembrance events, provide support and resources for people in recovery and their families, and promote education to reduce stigma and prevent overdoses.

A key aspect of their efforts is the mural wall, created by artist Seraphim Smith in honour of those who have died from overdose. On August 27, 2025, a service of remembrance will be held at this mural at 1:00 pm. Community members can stop by the Recovery Together ENC Center to get a white flag inscribed with a lost loved one's name, which will then be placed in front of the mural, with additional purple flags representing those across the state who have died.

The Recovery Together ENC Center is a vital part of the Community Recovery Division of the Greene and Lenoir Public Health Departments. In addition to their IOAD activities, the centre offers various services such as the Lenoir Community College's Keys to Hope program and the Lenoir, Greene, Jones Reentry program.

The Neuse News, an independent, locally-owned startup based in downtown Kinston, delivers stories that matter most in a format built for today. While it is not directly connected to the Recovery Together ENC Center, it is committed to providing free, hyper-local news across Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties. The Neuse News relies on readers and local businesses for support. When shopping local, dining local, and clicking on sponsor ads, one helps keep real journalism free and accessible at the Neuse News.

International Overdose Awareness Day serves as a unifying occasion to remember lives lost, reduce stigma, and mobilise communities for overdose prevention. In Kinston, NC, the Recovery Together ENC Center is contributing to these efforts locally, offering hope and support to those affected by overdose and working towards a safer future for all.

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