It is a time to remember those who have needlessly died, and to acknowledge the grief of their family and friends they left behind.
About the Event
Every year on August 31, communities around the world come together for National Overdose Awareness Day to remember the lives lost to overdose, support the families and friends left behind, and take action to prevent future tragedies.
A Betor Way invites the Memphis community to stand in solidarity, reduce stigma, and share hope. Together, we’ll honor the memories of those we’ve lost, raise awareness of the overdose crisis, and promote harm reduction and recovery support for all.
What to Expect
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Memorial Tribute – A space to honor loved ones lost to overdose
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The Heart Wall – Place a symbolic lock engraved or inscribed with your loved one’s name on our community heart wall as a lasting tribute
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Community Resources – Access to harm reduction tools, treatment referrals, and support groups
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Guest Speakers – Lived-experience advocates, healthcare providers, and recovery leaders
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Naloxone Training & Distribution – Learn to save a life with this simple, effective tool
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Vendor Booths – Explore local businesses, nonprofits, and artisans supporting the cause
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Candlelight Vigil – Closing the evening with a shared moment of remembrance and solidarity
How to Participate
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Attend – Bring friends, family, and neighbors. This event is free and open to the public.
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Honor a Loved One – Share their name and photo for our memorial display, or place a lock with their name on the Heart Wall.
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Become a Vendor – Showcase your products, services, or resources while supporting overdose awareness.
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Sponsor the Event – Partner with A Betor Way to underwrite event costs, expand outreach, and maximize impact. Sponsorships include recognition on event materials and social media.
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Spread the Word – Share our event on social media using #EndOverdose #MemphisRemembers.
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Take Action – Commit to learning about harm reduction, supporting people in recovery, and advocating for policy change.
Why It Matters
Overdose is now a leading cause of preventable death in the United States—and fentanyl is driving those numbers higher every year. In Shelby County alone, hundreds of families are grieving loved ones who should still be here. National Overdose Awareness Day is an opportunity to:
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Remember without stigma or shame
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Raise awareness about the reality of substance use and the effectiveness of harm reduction
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Support families and connect them to resources
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Take action to save lives through education, advocacy, and community connection