The Dedham Organization for Substance Awareness (DOSA) is proud to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day with a community remembrance event on Monday, August 31st. We are partnering with the Norfolk County–8 Public Health Coalition (NC-8) to raise awareness and bring communities together to learn more about overdose prevention resources.

From August 24 through August 31, purple flags will be placed throughout Barnes Memorial Park, each representing a life lost to overdose in Massachusetts in 2025. This visual will help to honor loved ones, raise awareness, and show our ongoing commitment to preventing overdose deaths.

On Monday, August 31 at 6:00 PM, community members are invited to gather at Barnes Memorial Park for a remembrance vigil. This event will offer a peaceful space for reflection, healing, and hope as we remember those we have lost and support families, friends, and neighbors affected by substance use and overdose.

For those interested, you can also dedicate a flag in memory of someone or submit a message of support. Dedications can be made by contacting the Dedham Health Department or through our online submission form.

This event and week of remembrance is open to everyone in Norfolk County. Whether you choose to honor a loved one, show your support, or to learn more about local efforts to prevent overdose and promote recovery, we invited you to join us.

Together, we can help reduce stigma, encourage compassion, and show our shared commitment to supporting those on their recovery journey.