Overdose remains a leading cause of preventable death in Virginia. On Wednesday, August 27 from 5 to 7 p.m., the Roanoke Valley Collective Response will host a community event at the Taubman Museum of Art to honor lives lost, raise awareness, and connect people with resources as part of International Overdose Awareness Day.

Roanoke’s State of the City address highlighted homelessness and addiction as continuing challenges, with local groups like RAM House and Roanoke Valley Collective Response stressing that breaking stereotypes is key to providing support.