By The Chronicle Staff

Community members are invited to come together for Logan County's Annual End Overdose Day event, scheduled from 3 to 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, on the Logan County Courthouse lawn and surrounding sidewalk in downtown Bellefontaine.

Hosted in conjunction with International Overdose Awareness Day, the annual event aims to raise awareness about the impact of substance use and overdose while connecting residents with local resources and support services.

Organizers say the gathering will focus on education, remembrance, hope, and community engagement.

The family-friendly event will feature free food, children's activities, resource and support information from area organizations, and a free tie-dye T-shirt activity while supplies last. Community members of all ages are encouraged to attend.

Organizers describe the event as an afternoon dedicated to awareness, connection and hope for a healthier Logan County.

The event's theme, "Together, We Can Save Lives," emphasizes the role individuals, families and organizations can play in preventing overdose deaths and supporting recovery efforts.

Several local agencies and organizations are sponsoring the event, including Recovery Zone, the Community C.O.R.E. Coalition for Opiate Relief Efforts, Community Health & Wellness Partners, the Logan County Health District, Harwood Institute for Public Innovation, ARC Walk the Line, the Logan County Friendly Senior Center and TCN Behavioral Health.

International Overdose Awareness Day is observed annually on Aug. 31 and serves as a global effort to remember lives lost to overdose, reduce stigma associated with substance use disorders and promote education about prevention, recovery and treatment resources.

Residents seeking additional information about the event are encouraged to contact participating organizations or visit their websites.■