Full Notification

“YOUR LIGHT STILL SHINES”
In Support of International Overdose Awareness Day
 
On Wednesday, August 23, 2023, the Village of New Lenox and its Safe Community Coalition will host the annual "Your Light Still Shines” event.  In partnership with Parkview Christian Church, the event will be held at their New Lenox Campus, located at 2121 S. Schoolhouse Road (Laraway Road & Schoolhouse Road), New Lenox, IL 60451. 
 
This event is held in support of International Overdose Awareness Day.  Residents are encouraged to attend to learn more about the opioid epidemic, substance use disorders, and what can be done to save lives.  In addition, we will remember individuals that died from drug overdose and provide resources to families that have been impacted.  Activities and scheduled times are as follows:
 
5:00pm to 6:30pm
Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization (H.E.R.O.) “Hidden in Plain Sight” Trailer
Take a tour of HERO’s “Hidden in Plain Sight” trailer.  The trailer is set-up as teenagers’ bedroom to educate parents about potentially dangerous items that are often “Hidden In Plain Sight.”  Teens engaging in substance use and other risky behaviors often find clever ways to hide what they’re doing.  Learn about the latest trends and concealment methods from trained staff members and volunteers from the HERO organization.
 
5:00pm to 6:30pm
Unwanted Medication Takeback
Each year, millions of Americans resolve to clean out their medicine cabinets.  Medicines unsecured in the home can cause confusion and medication misuse, resulting in serious health implications.  Medications, especially opioid-based pain killers, can fall into the hands of teens and lead to addiction.  Please use this opportunity to properly dispose of over-the-counter and prescription medications at the New Lenox Police Department’s table, which will be located near the main entrance.  Unacceptable items include needles, sharps, IV bags, thermometers and medical waste. 
 
5:00pm to 6:30pm
Informational and Memorial Tables
There will be approximately 30 organizations that specialize in substance use disorders, including treatment, counseling, and prevention.  Attendees are encouraged to visit the informational tables, speak with representatives, and pick-up helpful literature. 
 
In addition to the informational tables, there will be a designated memorial area to remember those that lost their battle with addiction.  Attendees that have lost a loved one to a drug overdose are invited to bring a framed photo that will be displayed during the event.  Grief support team members will be on hand to provide assistance and additional resources to those in need.
 
6:00pm to 6:30pm
Narcan® Training
Kathleen Burke, PhD, Substance Use Initiatives - Behavioral Health Division, Will County Health Department, will provide FREE Narcan® training to those in attendance.  Narcan® (naloxone) is a medicine that blocks the effects of opioids and reverses an overdose.  Everyone that completes the 30-minute training will receive a FREE Narcan® Nasal Spray Kit. 
 
6:30pm to 7:30pm
Showing of Addiction Resource Council Film and Panel Discussion  
This Addiction Resource Council film (“Your Choice” prevention education series) highlights the power of choices when it comes to substance use.  Attendees will learn from the experiences of those who made choices to use, those who were impacted by someone’s choice to use, and those who didn’t.  Following the showing, the audience will be provided an opportunity to ask questions from panelists that have spiritual, clinical, and lived experience backgrounds.
 
Panelist Bios
Matt Williard is the Student Ministries Director for Parkview Christian Church.  He has a passion for reaching the next generation with the hope of Jesus.  In his 15 years of ministry, he’s walked with numerous families and teenagers as they’ve dealt with addiction, mental health challenges, and suicide.
 
Jim Scarpace is the Regional Director of the Behavioral Medicine Service line for the Ascension Illinois Hospital System.  Jim has over 30 years of experience in administration, operations and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders.  Areas of expertise include addiction, trauma, group therapy, crisis intervention, family therapy and advocacy.  Jim is an assistant professor of Clinical Psychology at Benedictine University and has taught graduate classes in clinical psychology since 2003.
 
Mary Ellen Miller and her husband Paul lost their son Christopher to a drug overdose in March of 2017.  Aside from her lived experience with the loss of her son, Mary Ellen is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (33 years).  She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from St. Mary’s College, a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, and a Master's of Science in Educational Leadership from St. Francis University.  Mary Ellen volunteers her time with the HERO (Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization), providing education to parents and community members regarding substance use prevention.
 
Jason Moss’ sobriety date is May 3, 2018!  He’s a proud member of HA (Heroin Anonymous) a HERO Board Member and volunteer.  Jason openly shares his experience in addiction and recovery with the hopes of showing others they are not alone and that there is a way out.  Jason’s life has been filled with trauma, hate, love, pain, disappointment and joy.  After battling addiction for almost 30 years, he’s grateful that his life has been spared.  Jason believes wholeheartedly in carrying the message of hope to those still sick and suffering.
 
For additional information regarding this event please contact Daniel Martin, Safe Community Coordinator, Village of New Lenox, via email [email protected] or by phone (815) 462-6493.