Building Connections: Georgia Groups Convene on Overdose Prevention
Despite promising declines in overdose deaths in the United States in recent years, an estimated 73,000 people died from overdose between August 2024 and August 2025, according to the CDC. In Georgia, and across the country, rural areas are among those hardest hit by the opioid crisis.
In March, the CDC Foundation convened 18 community coalitions in Atlanta to build connections in their shared efforts to combat opioid overdose. The groups, all based in Georgia, together make up the Georgia Overdose Prevention Partnership (GOPP)—local coalitions implementing overdose prevention strategies in rural communities across the state. Funded by the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust, the GOPP brings together public health and public safety partners to address one of the state’s most urgent challenges.
Through the two-day convening, coalition members engaged in conversation and shared experiences of their work in overdose prevention. The valuable in-person meeting allowed participants not only to learn from one another but also form connections that will continue to strengthen their work moving forward.
The convening featured remarks from Holly Lynde, Executive Director of the Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust. Participants also heard from Dr. Judy Monroe, President and CEO of the CDC Foundation, along with technical advisors and program staff who provided guidance, tools and insights to support coalition efforts. Sessions focused on practical strategies, accessing relevant and timely data, and communications approaches—all designed to equip coalitions with the resources they need to implement effective, locally tailored interventions.
Through small group discussions, activity sessions and informal conversations, coalition members shared challenges, successes and ideas—learning directly from others navigating similar work in different communities. These exchanges reinforced the strength of the GOPP network and highlighted the importance of collaboration in advancing overdose prevention efforts.
Through the convening, the community coalition members built relationships they can use to support each other going forward, strengthening communities across Georgia and advancing the collective impact of the Georgia Overdose Prevention Partnership to save lives.
