IOAD

“STILL NEEDED”

For 25 years there has been an International Day of Recognition for Overdose Awareness campaign.

This year’s theme, “25 years on. Still needed” reflects a global truth: overdose affects people from all walks of life. Behind every statistic is a loved and valued individual, and behind every loss is a ripple felt by families and communities everywhere.

Yet, there is hope. Overdose is preventable. From timely care and education to life-saving interventions, we know what works—but these solutions are not yet fully embraced.

This year’s theme honors those who have led this work for 25 years, while inviting everyone into the conversation. It calls on us—across cultures and professions—to speak openly, learn, and act with compassion and evidence.

While this day is still needed, it doesn’t have to be forever. Together, we can build a future where support is always within reach and this global moment of remembrance is no longer necessary.

Until then, we remember. We act. We continue—together.

We’re Back!

The International Overdose Awareness Day

Color Run Returns for 2026

After a brief pause last year, our organization’s most vibrant tradition is making a comeback—because the fight to end overdose is #StillNeeded.

Good morning, community! 

We are absolutely thrilled to announce that after a one-year off, our annual Color Run for Overdose Awareness is officially back for its third year.

While we missed seeing you all in 2025, our mission never stopped. This year marks the 25th anniversary of International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD),

August 31, and we are bringing this event back bigger, brighter, and more determined than ever.

Why We Run

A color run is more than just a race—it’s a visual celebration of life, a tribute to those we’ve lost,

and a loud, colorful declaration of hope for those still fighting.

Every splash of color on the track represents a story.

• We run to remember the individuals behind the statistics—the loved, valued family members

  and friends who are missed every single day.

• We run to act by raising awareness for life-saving education, risk reduction, and local support services.

• We run together because overdose is preventable, and a supportive community is where healing begins.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• Date: August 22, 2026

• Check In Time: 8:30AM

• Run Start Time: 9:15AM

• Location: [Insert Location/Start Line]

• Who: Walkers, runners, families, and strollers are all welcome! This is a non-competitive,

  community-focused event.

The Purple Finale: This year, our final color station will feature a massive cloud of purple—

the international color for overdose awareness—to honor the global 25-year milestone of this movement.

Join the Movement

Whether you ran with us in 2023 and 2024, or you're joining us for the

very first time, your presence matters.

Let’s turn our shared grief, love, and hope into collective action.

Until then, we remember. We act. And we continue—together.

#25YearsStillNeeded #IOAD2026 #EndOverdose #ColorRun2026