Events, Opportunities, and Resources from Together for Families Partners

Observed annually on August 21, National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is a nationwide initiative created to educate the public about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and to honor lives lost to fentanyl poisoning. Founded by impacted families through Project Facing Fentanyl, the day was established in response to the escalating crisis of counterfeit pills and other substances made with illicit fentanyl, now the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18–45.

Recognized by the U.S. Senate through an official resolution, the day brings together families affected by fentanyl, advocacy organizations, law enforcement, educators, and policymakers to share prevention tools, promote public awareness, and encourage life-saving action. Activities include press conferences, memorial events, community forums, school presentations, and widespread media campaigns.

The initiative’s goals are to:

• Provide fact-based education on fentanyl’s risks
• Equip communities with prevention strategies and access to opioid reversal agents
• Foster collaboration across sectors to address the crisis
• Offer a national platform for families to share their stories, turning grief into advocacy

Since its launch, National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day has grown into one of the most significant fentanyl awareness effort led by impacted families in the United States, inspiring both grassroots and national action to save lives.

Are you a parent or caregiver who has navigated the challenges of your child's substance use? Do you feel ready to support others going through similar experiences? The Partnership’s Peer Coaching Program connects parents seeking support with trained peer coaches who have walked this path themselves.

The training program includes weekly two-hour live Zoom sessions, homework assignments, and hands-on practice with training simulations. You will learn about addiction, behavior change, communication skills, and evidence-based family support strategies.

After completing the 12-week training you will have the opportunity to apply to become a volunteer peer coach at Partnership to End Addiction. The next training begins in September 2025.

Not One More Alabama (NOMA) offers compassionate, evidence-based Family and Grief Programs for individuals and families impacted by substance use and overdose, all at no cost.

The Family Program begins with a peer navigator intake process to help identify each family’s needs. From there, families receive individualized support from trained professionals with lived experience who provide one-on-one guidance, treatment navigation, and essential resources. Weekly support groups are available, including Tuesday evening sessions and casual “Lunch & Listen” gatherings on Mondays. These groups follow the “Invitation to Change” model and incorporate tools like the 20-Minute Guide to help families better support their loved ones while maintaining their own well-being. NOMA also offers educational workshops and safety planning sessions to build stronger, healthier family dynamics.

For those grieving a loss due to substance use, NOMA’s Grief Support includes GRASP (Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing), a support group that meets twice a month and provides a safe space for sharing, psychoeducational coping tools, and peer connection. Unique offerings such as therapeutic activities—including visits to a Rage Room—help participants process complex emotions. NOMA also hosts the Hope & Healing Weekend Workshop, an annual retreat led by licensed therapists with expertise in addiction-related grief. Held at Vision Lodge, this immersive experience provides grieving individuals with therapeutic tools, support, and opportunities for connection and renewal. Limited lodging and financial assistance are available. Through these programs, NOMA fosters healing, hope, and meaningful connection for families navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges.