AMHC is proud to join communities worldwide in observing International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, 2025. This year’s theme, “One Big Family, Driven by Hope,” highlights the deep connections we share and the strength we find when we come together to prevent overdose and support recovery.

Overdose touches individuals, families, neighborhoods, and entire communities. Whether you have lost someone to overdose, are living in recovery, or work in prevention, treatment, or harm reduction, you are part of this shared story. This year’s theme reminds us that we are all connected. The more we see each other as one big family, the more we can replace stigma with compassion and grief with action.

International Overdose Awareness Day is a time to honor the lives lost, support those still with us, and raise awareness about overdose prevention. It also serves as a call to action. When we come together to remember, to educate, and to support one another, we build stronger, safer, and more hopeful communities.

To recognize this important day, Recovery Support Centers in Calais, Machias, Houlton, and Caribou will host candlelight vigils and community events. These gatherings offer a safe space for reflection, remembrance, and connection. All events are free and open to the public.

Event Details

Downeast Recovery Center, Calais:

• Remembrance window with photos
• Naloxone training
• Free Naloxone and Fentanyl test strips available
• Remembrance walk and candlelight vigil starting at 6:30 PM

Downeast Recovery Center, Machias:

• Remembrance window with photos
• Naloxone training
• Free Naloxone and Fentanyl test strips available

Roads to Recovery, Caribou:

• Candlelight vigil at 6:00 PM

ARCH - Aroostook Recovery Center of Hope, Houlton:

• Candlelight vigil at 6:00 PM

These events invite the community to come together, learn more about overdose prevention, and honor the lives of those we have lost. They provide space for grieving, reflection, and taking meaningful steps forward.

AMHC encourages everyone to attend and show their support. By standing together as one big family, we can reduce stigma, support healing, and help prevent overdose in our communities. When we are driven by hope, we can change what comes next.