The Mat Su Opioid Task Force and MyHouse are coordinating a Recovery Fair to commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day and National Recovery Day at the end of this month. Everyone is invited to come together in support and fellowship, learn about the services and tools available in our community, aid recovery, and discover opportunities to serve and connect with our youth to help delay exposure to addictive substances and behaviors.

The core of recovery is connection. Our community is coming together on August 31 and September 1 for the First Annual Remembrance and Recovery via Prevention event at Newcomb Park on Wasilla Lake.

International Overdose Day is Tuesday, August 31. At 6 pm, join those who have lost loved ones to overdose, substance misuse, and addiction for a candlelight vigil and community display. We invite communities across Alaska to hold concurrent memorials to resonate with the energy and “blessed spirit” of healing that connection and remembrance can bring. If you would like to add a name to the list to be read, please email John Green at KellsiesKey@yahoo.com.

Recovery Day events will be held Wednesday, September 1, from 11 am – 7 pm. There will be food trucks, youth activities and engagement programs, door prizes, and space to connect and chat. Representatives from addiction recovery services, behavioral and mental health services, support groups, and others will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Learn about bridge devices, fentanyl test strips, Narcan, and the many ways our community is working together to provide options for individuals and families impacted by addiction and substance misuse.