About Minnesota Overdose Awareness
Since 2010, Minnesota Overdose Awareness has been at the forefront of the battle against the opioid and overdose crises that have deeply impacted our community. What began as an annual Vigil on International Overdose Awareness Day has evolved into a passionate mission to raise awareness, provide compassionate care, and save lives.
Our journey started with a commitment to harm reduction strategies and access to naloxone when these concepts were relatively unknown. Today, we stand stronger than ever, ready to serve those most affected by the overdose and opioid crises: individuals using drugs, their loved ones, and the communities they are part of.
In 2023, we embarked on a new chapter, thanks to a generous benefactor. Renovations began at a property in North Minneapolis, setting the stage for a community/drop-in center. Our vision is to provide a safe space for individuals using opiates and other drugs, with access to vital harm reduction services, substance use care, medical support, and unconventional yet essential services.
Our inaugural Minnesota Overdose Awareness Conference in 2023, which hosted 75 attendees, marked the expansion of our event offerings. Together, we are creating a community dedicated to change, compassion, and dignity.
But the battle is far from over. Overdose deaths have plateaued, and fentanyl-related overdoses continue to claim lives.
We invite you to join us, be part of this narrative, and contribute to the change we’re striving for. Your support is the driving force behind our relentless efforts to combat the opioid crisis and overdose epidemic.
Together, we can create a brighter, safer, and more compassionate future for our community.
Our Mission
Minnesota Overdose Awareness is dedicated to providing accessible, dignified care, championing engagement and health equity for those impacted by substance use within our community.
Our Core Values
- Engagement/Health Equity: We strive to offer flexible, accessible, and relevant care and support that prioritizes engagement and person-centered practices.
- Compassion/Dignity: We approach our work with empathy, understanding, and dignity for all.
- Inclusivity: We embrace diversity and create easy access spaces/services that welcome and support all individuals and communities.
- Innovation: We pursue innovative strategies and solutions to address evolving challenges.
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of partnerships and collaboration to effect meaningful change.
- Advocacy: We advocate for policies and practices that promote harm reduction, health equity, and community well-being.
- Awareness/Prevention: We are committed to raising overdose awareness, increasing overdose prevention, educating communities, and reducing stigma associated with substance use.
Vision Statement
To create a community where individuals impacted by substance use find support, healing, hope and health equity by empowering those who are served and by offering flexible/responsive services that reflect the needs of the community.
Diversity and Inclusion Statement
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of Minnesota Overdose Awareness. We celebrate and embrace the rich tapestry of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within our community. We stand united in our commitment to create an inclusive space that values and respects the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. Through this dedication, we strive to amplify diverse voices, cultivate a culture of belonging, and ensure equitable access to care and support for all those affected by substance use. We believe that by embracing diversity and fostering inclusion, we strengthen our ability to address the complexities of the opioid crisis and create a brighter, more compassionate future for our community.