Following approval of the Opioid Abatement Funding Recommendations Roadmap in December 2024, the Epidemic Intelligence Council (EpIC) has been busy revitalizing efforts to combat opioid misuse in Orange County. Examples include the currently ongoing Community Needs Survey, the launch of a resource map, an upcoming community vigil, and a scheduled naloxone training and distribution on Save a Life Day.
One of EpIC’s flagship projects has been the Community Needs Survey. This anonymous survey, launched in July, helps planners gather more information about existing service gaps and the kinds of programs the public would like to see developed in response to opioid misuse. It will remain available online through the end of September at www.orangecountyva.gov/epic. Created with accessibility in mind, several translation options, including an ASL video translation, are available to survey participants. Printed copies are available as well.
While the Community Needs Survey seeks to learn more information with the goal of filling service gaps, the interactive Opioid Response Viewer map has been created with the assistance of Orange County GIS to help spread awareness about resources that are already available, such as support groups, mental health services, prevention & education resources, and more. In digital map form, this viewer provides the locations and details about regional resources ready to help those impacted by opioids. Access the map at www.orangecountyva.gov/845/Resources.
Finally, two upcoming events will help provide comfort, support, and proactive resources to those impacted by opioid misuse, whether directly or through a loved one.
EpIC will host a community vigil in recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day. The event will be held at Taylor Park in the Town of Orange on Aug. 31, 6:30-8 p.m. The organization will also host Save a Life Day. Recognized in communities throughout states east of the Mississippi, the event will include distribution and training of naloxone for members of the public. The event will take place Sept. 25 at three locations–the Virginia Department of Health, 450 North Madison Road, Orange, 2-6 p.m.; Gordonsville Town Hall, 112 S. Main Street, Gordonsville, 8 a.m. to noon and 3-6 p.m. and the Wilderness Shopping Center Lawn, 5483 Germanna Highway, Locust Grove, 2-6 p.m.
Those with questions or those who would like to become more involved with EpIC’s activities are encouraged to contact Dr. Laura Mahan, Opioid Response Program Coordinator at (540) 672-6173 or lmahan@orangecountyva.gov. To stay informed about EpIC activities, visit www.orangecountyva.gov/epic or follow their new Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ocvaepic.
