Clark County Prepares for 9th Annual Overdose & Fentanyl Awareness Day at Vancouver Waterfront Park
On Thursday, August 21, the community will come together at the Vancouver Waterfront Park from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. for Clark County’s 9th Annual Overdose & Fentanyl Awareness Day. This annual event is part of International Overdose Awareness Day—the world’s largest campaign to end overdose—bringing people together to raise awareness, honor the lives lost, and provide hope, healing, and connection for those impacted.
The Vancouver event began in 2017, led by Lyn Fortner after losing her son Ryan to a heroin overdose in 2012. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a countywide day of remembrance and action, with partner organizations, advocates, and community members joining forces to address the overdose crisis.
What to Expect at This Year’s Event
This year’s gathering will feature:
Memorial displays honoring loved ones lost to overdose, offering space for grief, reflection, and remembrance.
Resource booths from local organizations providing information on treatment, recovery, harm reduction, and mental health support.
Guest speakers sharing personal stories of loss, survival, and hope.
Community partners will include local nonprofits, health providers, harm reduction programs, and advocacy groups working every day to prevent overdoses and support recovery.
Why This Day Matters
The fentanyl crisis continues to take lives across Southwest Washington, impacting families, friends, and entire communities. Fentanyl—a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin—is now the leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States. Many people who overdose on fentanyl don’t know they’ve taken it, as it is often mixed into other drugs.
By increasing awareness and reducing stigma, events like this encourage open conversation, harm reduction practices, and stronger community support systems.
Join Us at the Waterfront
Clark County’s Overdose & Fentanyl Awareness Day is open to all. Whether you have lost someone, are in recovery, work in prevention, or simply want to stand in solidarity, your presence matters.
Date & Time: Thursday, August 21, 2025 – 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Vancouver Waterfront Park
Cost: Free & open to the public
For more details, visit SWACH’s event page or follow the event on Facebook.
Together, we can break the silence, reduce the stigma, and save lives.