Dorchester Goes Purple campaign endorsed by county; kickoff set for Sept. 12

The Dorchester County Council issued a proclamation recognizing the Dorchester Goes Purple initiative for the month of September, urging residents to learn signs of substance misuse and support recovery services.

Council cited county data included in the proclamation noting 29 opioid overdoses in 2025 with one fatality and said the initiative seeks to reduce stigma, promote evidence-based treatment and highlight providers and community resources.

Angela Grove, behavioral health director (Dorchester County Health Department), described local activities: daily educational messages, purple lighting and apparel, an art contest for students, and a kickoff event merged with the Recovery Works event on Saturday, Sept. 12 from noon to 4 p.m. "Every day this month, we're promoting an educational message. Please visit dorchestergoespurple.org or the DGP Facebook page to see and share messages," Grove said, and noted that attendees can learn to use Narcan and take home naloxone kits.

Council members thanked organizers and urged residents and faith groups to participate in outreach and prevention efforts.