CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — In an effort to combat the concerning rates of drug overdose deaths in Ohio, BrightView Health Addiction Treatment Center is teaming up with several local organizations for the annual Chillicothe Hope Fest. The event aims to raise awareness about substance use disorder (SUD) and provide a platform to celebrate successful recovery stories.
Ohio has been grappling with a high number of drug overdose deaths, making events like National Recovery Month and International Awareness Day crucial in spreading the message of hope and resilience. This year, BrightView Health Addiction Treatment Center, with offices in Chillicothe, is playing a significant role in the Hope Fest scheduled to take place at Yoctangee Park this Saturday, August 26th, from 3 pm to 8 pm. The event is free to the public and will feature a range of activities, live music, delectable food offerings, and inspirational speeches.
One of the highlights of the event is the International Overdose Awareness Day Memorial, which will commence at 8 pm and be held at Yoctangee Park, across the bridge.
The Hope Fest serves as an annual celebration of the effectiveness of outpatient addiction treatment. Since its establishment in 2018, BrightView Health has been an instrumental force in aiding over 2,500 local residents from the Chillicothe area in their journey towards recovery. This has encompassed more than 53,000 hours of medical treatment and approximately 53,787 hours of counseling and therapy.
The central objective of the Hope Fest is to raise awareness about substance use disorder (SUD) treatment programs. The event is a tribute to individuals who have lost loved ones to substance use and addiction. Additionally, to mark the International Overdose Awareness Evening on August 26th, downtown Chillicothe businesses and the courthouse will illuminate the area with purple lights.
BrightView’s Community Outreach Manager, Jessica Rodgers, expressed the significance of the event, stating, “The Hope Fest brings the community together to learn and spread awareness about substance use disorder (SUD) and the programs available to help those in need. The festival is an opportunity for community partners to work together and share ways to access treatment in a caring, stigma-free, and family-oriented environment.”
As Ohio continues its battle against the opioid epidemic, collaborative events like the Chillicothe Hope Fest prove to be essential in raising awareness, offering support, and inspiring individuals on their journey to recovery.