Anoka County Spotlights on Opioids and Overdose In event set for Oct. 4 in Spring Lake Park

Anoka County Spotlights on Opioids and Overdose In event set for Oct. 4 in Spring Lake Park

Anoka County residents are invited to join the Spotlight on Opioids and Overdose event on Saturday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Spring Lake Park High School, 1100 81st Ave. NE. The free event, hosted by the Anoka County Opioid Solutions Initiative (ACOSI), aims to raise awareness about overdose prevention while offering education, resources, and support to individuals and families affected by substance misuse.

Event Activities

The day will feature a mix of expert-led education and community resources, including:

• Expert Presentations — Specialists will discuss opioids, fentanyl, and other current drug trends, highlighting risks such as the hidden dangers often found in household medicine cabinets.
• Naloxone Education Station — Attendees can receive free Naloxone kits (a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses) and learn how to administer them.
• Lived Experience Panel — Individuals directly impacted by opioids will share stories of addiction, loss, recovery, and hope.
• Community Resource Fair — More than 40 local health care, treatment, and recovery organizations will host information tables to connect residents with available services.
• Free Pizza — Complimentary food will be provided to attendees.

ACOSI’s Role in the Community

ACOSI was established to direct Anoka County’s share of national opioid settlement funds toward prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction. The county is projected to receive approximately $18 million over 18 years, which must be used to combat the opioid crisis through evidence-based programs and partnerships.

The initiative’s mission is to “improve health, save lives, and reduce the impact” of opioids and other substances in the county. It is guided by an advisory council that includes public health professionals, service providers, and individuals with lived experience.

Leadership Perspective

District 7 Anoka County Commissioner Mandy Meisner, who chairs the county’s Human Services Committee of the Whole, emphasized the significance of the event.

“This free event is a vital opportunity for our community to come together, learn, and take action,” Meisner said. “Opioid misuse and overdose have touched too many lives in Anoka County. By offering education, resources, and support, we’re empowering residents to be part of the solution. Together, we can save lives and build a healthier, more connected community.”

Event Information

• Date/Time: Saturday, October 4, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
• Location: Spring Lake Park High School, 1100 81st Ave. NE, Spring Lake Park
• Admission: Free and open to the public

For more details, visit the Anoka County Opioid Solutions Initiative (ACOSI) at www.anokacountymn.gov/ACOSI or contact Erik Thorson, Chief Communications Officer, at 763-324-4612 or Erik.Thorson@anokacountymn.gov.

MinneapoliMedia