Resource Booths Wanted!
Organizations offering networking and resource opportunities for families dealing with or learning more about substance use prevention are invited to host a free resource booth during a Community Dinner & Forum for Opioid Use Prevention being held September 9th. Sales such as fundraising or raffles are permitted provided, they support organizations and/or causes that have a focus on preventing substance use or provide support services.
More about the event:
A planning group made up of community members, school officials, and neighboring municipalities are planning the event. The event's mission is to help prevent opioid/substance misuse and overdose by educating our youth, families and friends using a health and evidence-based approach. The effort is aimed at parents, students, and staff to help educate and support the use of Narcan, recognizing warning signs, discussing prevention ideas, and eliminating stigma.
The event is scheduled for September 9, 2025 at the Essex High School Auditorium and will be presented by the Town of Essex, City of Essex Junction, Town of Westford, Essex Westford School District, and Voices for Inclusion in Essex and Westford (VIEW).
The evening will begin at 5 pm with a catered community dinner followed by panel discussions from 6 - 8:30 pm. Two panels are being planned. The first will be of local health care professionals, resource experts, and emergency personnel. The second panel will include guests who will share lived experiences. Other topics being discussed in planning include a Narcan demonstration, questions and gathering input from community members on potential uses for opioid settlement funds, and giveaways.
Confirmed panel guests to date include Cam Lauf from Chittenden Turning Point, Melinda White of Turning Point of Franklin County, Emily Truder from the Vermont Department of Health, Colleen Ballard from Essex Rescue, and Candace Gale and David Reigel from Vermont Foundation for Recovery.
The Town of Essex plans to use funds available from the National Opioid Settlements. A current financial statement of funds received to date may be viewed on the Town's website.
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