'Your Light Still Shines' Event To Raise Awareness, Remember Overdose Victims

NEW LENOX, IL — The Village of New Lenox and its Safe Community Coalition will host the annual "Your Light Still Shines" event, in support of International Overdose Awareness Day. The event is designed to educate the community on the opioid epidemic and resources that are available to assist families with loved ones suffering from addiction. It's also an event to remember those lost to a drug overdose.

The Thursday, Aug. 28 event will be held at Lincoln-Way West High School, 21701 Gougar Rd. from 5 to 8 p.m.

The event brings the community together to remember, learn, and support those affected by substance use disorder. Through shared stories, helpful resources and moments of reflection, the organizers aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and offer hope for healing.

This year’s event will feature powerful personal stories, hands-on learning opportunities, and resources for families impacted by substance use. It’s a chance to remember those lost, support those still struggling, and learn how all can be part of the solution, the Village said in its event description.

“Your Light Still Shines” offers a powerful mix of education, remembrance, and community connection. Attendees will have the chance to explore interactive exhibits like the “Hidden in Plain Sight” trailers, which reveal how everyday items in a teen’s bedroom can mask signs of substance use. Over 30 local organizations will be on hand with resources for prevention, treatment, and support, while a memorial area invites families to honor loved ones lost to overdose. The evening also features a moving speaker panel, where individuals share personal stories of how substance use disorder has touched their lives, offering both insight and inspiration. Guests can learn about Narcan through a brief myth-busting session. To wrap up the night, raffle prizes will be awarded!

5 to 6:30 p.m.
“Hidden in Plain Sight” Trailers

Take a tour of the “Hidden in Plain Sight” trailers, which are set up as teenager’s bedrooms 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.

5 to 6:30 p.m.
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 painkillers, 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 Will County Sheriff’s table, which will be located near the main entrance. Unacceptable items include needles, sharps, IV bags, thermometers and medical waste.

5 to 6:30 p.m.
Informational and Memorial Tables

Visit tables by 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.

6:30 to 7:15 p.m.
Speakers: Question and Answer

Speakers include Jada Moss, Mikayla Hollingsworth, and Erin Sloan. Ranging from high school students to professionals, speakers will talk about their personal experiences with substance abuse.

7:15 to 7:45 p.m.
Narcan Education

Take an interactive Kahoot quiz, followed by a Q&A.

7:45 to 8 p.m.
Raffle

Must be present to win.