International Overdose Awareness Day, observed annually on August 31, is a time to remember those lost to overdose and to stand with the families and communities forever changed by the crisis.
In Kentucky alone, 9,750 people died from drug overdoses between 2020 and 2024. While this toll is heartbreaking, the state has recently seen a decline in overdose deaths—a hopeful sign that prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and community-based solutions are making an impact.
This year, Kentuckians are encouraged to wear purple to show solidarity, honor lives lost and help break the stigma surrounding addiction. Communities across the state are hosting local events to reflect, support one another and recommit to saving lives. The International Overdose Awareness Day campaign offers a free toolkit with fact sheets, social media graphics, event planning guides and educational materials.
For many, recovery work is deeply personal. Lauren Carr, a Graves County native, became an advocate after losing her brother, Justin, to a fentanyl overdose in 2011.
She has since led a local coalition, served on the National Association of Counties (NACo) Opioid Solutions Leadership Network, and now works with counties across Kentucky to help them invest opioid settlement funds wisely. By providing technical assistance, best-practice guidance, and peer examples, Lauren supports local governments in turning settlement dollars into lasting solutions.
This Overdose Awareness Day, let’s come together by wearing purple, sharing resources, and amplifying stories of leadership and hope—because together, Kentucky can continue making progress in building healthier, stronger communities.
[Photo: The Jessamine County Courthouse lit up in purple in recognition of Overdose Awareness Day.]
