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Smyth County establishes annual Opioid and Substance Abuse Awareness Day after Virginia Tech presentation
Summary
Following a Virginia Tech presentation on prevention strategies, the Smyth County Board unanimously adopted a resolution declaring Sept. 21 as Opioid and Substance Abuse Awareness Day and pledged support for local prevention and recovery partnerships.
The Smyth County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Feb. 26 to adopt a resolution establishing Sept. 21 as an annual Opioid and Substance Abuse Awareness Day in the county.
Virginia Tech Regional Coordinator Shannon Simpson presented findings that local awareness days and partnerships between government, schools, law enforcement and community groups can increase awareness of resources and reduce opioid misuse. "I am proud of the progress that has happened in Smyth County over the past few years," Simpson told the Board.
The resolution, read into the record by Assistant County Administrator Clegg Williams, says Smyth County recognizes the continuing impacts of opioid and substance use disorders on individuals, families and local resources, and encourages residents, businesses and organizations to participate in awareness activities and programs. Chilhowie District Supervisor Mike Sturgill, who moved adoption of the resolution, noted local school programs that teach Narcan use and host awareness events.
The Board also heard an annual report from Mount Rogers Regional Partnership Executive Director Ashlyn Shrewsbury on regional economic development work, including efforts tied to Pathway Park and job retention in Smyth County. Shrewsbury described MRRP's role in attracting businesses to broaden tax bases and support local living standards.
The Opioid and Substance Abuse Awareness Day resolution passed by unanimous vote and calls for county support of prevention, treatment, recovery and enforcement partnerships. The resolution will be observed beginning Sept. 21, 2026, and the Board encouraged community participation in awareness and support activities.
Board members and staff noted ongoing coordination with schools and local providers and committed to follow-up on community outreach and programming tied to the awareness day.
