Take a Stand, The Other Side Host Vigil for Overdose Awareness Day

Take a Stand, of Lake Zurich, and The Other Side, of Crystal Lake, are holding a candlelight vigil on Saturday in conjunction with International Overdose Awareness Day. 

The vigil is scheduled from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 31, at Barbara Key Park, 9323 Pyott Rd., Lake in the Hills, according to Cortni Wells, head of supportive for Take a Stand, a Lake Zurich-based group of young advocates for drug awareness.


The Other Side is a alcohol-free bar at 93 E. Berkshire Drive, Unit G, Crystal Lake. 

"Overdose rates have skyrocketed in the collar counties over the last few years," Wells said.  "Chicagoland has been number 1 in the country for overdose for the last 11 consecutive years."

Wells reached out to specific communities - including Crystal Lake and Algonquin - that those most "heavily impacted" by overdoses in recent years, she said.

Attendees are asked to bring a small photograph of their loved ones to add to a memorial board. There were also be outdoor games, music and food at the event. 

The vigil is free and open to the public, Wells said. 

More information is available on the Take a Stand Facebook pageand Take a Stand webpage.