MANSFIELD — The second annual “Honor, Remember, Heal” overdose awareness event will take place Saturday at 44 W. 4th St. to offer resources, honor lives lost to addiction, and combat stigma surrounding substance use disorder.

The free event from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. was established by Erika Baum in memory of her son, Cedric Timothy Bowman, who died of a fentanyl overdose on June 27, 2020, at age 22.

It is co-hosted by Renata Music of the Music Academy of Karate & Empowerment (M.A.K.E.), where Bowman was a former student when Music taught at the Mansfield Area YMCA.

Organizers aim to provide a safe space for individuals in recovery and offer support to those navigating addiction.

“Too often those struggling with addiction are stigmatized, labeled for their disease instead of the human being they are,” Baum said, noting this year’s theme is “Awareness is the beginning, what we do next changes the story.”

The gathering will feature a proclamation from Mayor Jody Perry, a memorial video and a candle vigil.

Attendance is free, and complimentary food—including baked spaghetti, salad, and breadsticks—will be catered by UR Worthy Catering, owned by Candace Cole, founder of the human trafficking prevention nonprofit Rubies. Culligan Water Co. donated water for the event.

Local food trucks Lanies Lemons and The Lavender Spoon will have items available for purchase.

Community Activities and Support Services

Local mental health, housing, and addiction service organizations will be on-site to provide guidance and resources.

The event includes a variety of family activities and local demonstrations:

  • Live Music: Classic rock and country ballads performed by local group Gone Sovereign.
  • Youth Entertainment: A bounce house provided by EL C’s Event Rentals, face painting, and giant lawn games.
  • Demonstrations: Karate performances by M.A.K.E. students and senseis.
  • Wellness Services: Mini yoga sessions hosted by Dog Down Yoga, mini Reiki sessions by Desiree ($15 for 10 minutes or $20 for 20 minutes), and henna tattooing by Enchanted Luna Henna Studio ($5).

A basket raffle featuring items donated by local businesses and families will raise funds for attending non-profit organizations. Tickets cost $1 each or 15 for $10, payable via cash, Venmo, or Cash App. Baum announced she will match all proceeds generated by the highest-selling basket.

“This event is open to everyone in the community. Every individual has in some way been
touched or affected by addiction. We are responsible as a community to be good citizens. The theme this year is ‘Awareness is the beginning, what we do next changes the story,'” Baum said.

Community members can submit photos to honor loved ones in the memorial video or ask questions by contacting Baum at baum_erika@yahoo.com. Additional details are available on the event’s Facebook page.