Each year, International Overdose Awareness Day offers an opportunity to remember the lives lost to overdose, support those who are still struggling, and come together as a community to recognize that recovery is possible.

On Monday, August 31, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Root Center for Advanced Recovery will host its annual International Overdose Awareness Day Remembrance Ceremony at the Manchester Root Center Clinic, 335 Broad Street in Manchester.

Held in Root Center’s Memorial Garden, the ceremony brings together patients, families, staff, community partners, elected officials, and members of the public for a meaningful morning of remembrance, reflection, hope, and connection.

Remembering Those We Have Lost

A centerpiece of the ceremony is Root Center’s Remembrance Wall, where attendees are invited to write messages honoring loved ones lost to overdose. Paper and pens will be available for anyone who would like to leave a message in the wall. During the ceremony, Root Center will also hold a ceremonial burning of notes left at last year’s event, creating a powerful moment of reflection and remembrance.

This year, TriCircle will join Root Center and display its memorial quilts, which share the names and faces of loved ones whose lives have been lost. The quilts serve as a deeply personal reminder that behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story that matters.

The event will also include Root Center’s annual ceremonial planting in the Memorial Garden, symbolizing remembrance, growth, and hope for the future.

Voices From Our Community

Community leaders, legislators, Root Center staff, and patients will share remarks throughout the ceremony, offering perspectives on overdose, recovery, treatment, and the importance of continuing to support individuals and families impacted by substance use.

The ceremony is designed not only to remember those we have lost, but also to stand alongside those who are currently navigating substance use, treatment, and recovery.

Health, Harm Reduction and Community Resources

In addition to the remembrance ceremony, attendees will have access to important health and community resources.

Wheeler Health will be on site with its mobile unit, offering blood pressure checks, glucose checks, basic CPR training, and community outreach resources.

Root Center will also provide free Narcan (naloxone) and fentanyl testing strips. These harm-reduction tools can help prevent overdose deaths and provide individuals, families, and community members with resources that can save lives.

Join Us on August 31

International Overdose Awareness Day reminds us that no one should have to navigate addiction, loss, or recovery alone. By gathering together, we can honor those we have lost, support those who are still struggling, reduce stigma, and continue working toward a future with fewer lives lost to overdose.

The International Overdose Awareness Day Remembrance Ceremony is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.

Event Details
Monday, August 31, 2026
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Root Center for Advanced Recovery – Manchester Clinic
335 Broad Street, Manchester, CT 06040

Light refreshments will be served.

We hope you will join us for this special morning of remembrance, connection, and hope.