Each year on August 31, communities worldwide gather for International Overdose Awareness Day—a time to reduce stigma, uplift hope, and honor those lost to overdose. For four years running, CHR has had the privilege of organizing this day of remembrance in Cochise County. It’s always a powerful reminder of the strength found when we come together in support and compassion.
This year’s event, held at City Park in Old Bisbee and made possible in part by the Legacy Foundation of Southeast Arizona, took on new meaning. A summer rainstorm moved our gathering under the park’s ramada, turning what could have been an interruption into a uniquely intimate and welcoming evening. About 30 attendees braved the weather and were greeted with live music by the Becca Reyes band, delicious food, and heartfelt conversation. The smaller turnout fostered deeper connections and more room for socializing among friends and neighbors.
We are deeply grateful to Legacy, our steadfast volunteers, staff, and board members, and especially to Rachel Runnings, who as ceremony speaker created the space for a moving reading of the names by Ian Ohler-Romines.
New this year was a group grief art project facilitated by CHRs Special Projects Coordinator, Jackie Brittain —attendees had access to a variety of art supplies to express love, loss, and resilience, both in individual works and collaborative pieces. Many of these creations now grace our in-office memorial table and, in coming months, will be assembled into a communal magazine to keep their stories visible all year long.
This year’s event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of Samantha Childs, our Outreach Program Manager. Sam coordinated every detail to ensure the evening focused on community and remembrance. When asked about IOAD’s meaning, Sam shared: “For us, this day is a powerful reminder of the strength that is found when we as a community come together to offer support and compassion to one another.”
CHR also extends thanks to those who participated in our harm reduction table, sharing resources and knowledge on overdose prevention, and to all the speakers and community members who, rain or shine, continue to show what care looks like in practice. As overdose rates continue at an alarming rate we understand that true healing occurs when we as a community come together to break the silence and ensure no one faces loss alone.