Following approval of the Opioid Abatement Funding Recommendations Roadmap by the Orange County Board of Supervisors in December 2024, the Epidemic Intelligence Council (EpIC) led by the county’s new Opioid Response Coordinator, Dr. Laura Mahan, hit the ground running to implement priority strategies identified in the Roadmap. These strategies include the launch of a community survey and county-wide educational campaign as well as local events to raise awareness. Orange County’s Epidemic Intelligence Council Puts Roadmap in Motion By: Ashley Jacobs, Management Analyst, Orange County Administration Department
Feedback is currently being received through a community survey to better understand local needs regarding opioid use and recovery. Orange County residents are encouraged to participate and foster a more complete understanding of the local opioid resource landscape. To complete the survey, click the icon to the left or visit www.orangecountyva.gov/epic. Beginning next month, residents and visitors of Orange County will see messaging in various public spaces that focus on stigma, prevention, treatment, and recovery. This messaging not only brings awareness but also sparks the conversation regarding opioid use and recovery options while giving the public more opportunities to learn about local resources and the important work of EpIC. Community members are also encouraged to learn more about two upcoming events:
Community Vigil: August 31, 2025, 6:30-8:00 p.m. In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day, EpIC will host a community vigil at Taylor Park in the Town of Orange. Save a Life Day: September 25, 2025 Save a Life Day is recognized in communities throughout states east of the Mississippi. Narcan distribution and training will be available for members of the public. More information will be available about locations closer to the event.
If you would like more information about the work of EpIC, the County’s local opioid abatement efforts, any upcoming events, or would like to become involved, please contact Dr. Laura Mahan, Opioid Response Program Coordinator, at lmahan@orangecountyva.gov or visit the EpIC webpage at www.orangecountyva.gov/epic.
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OCI July 2025
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