The Keep NM Alive collaborative is organizing an event focused on addressing the fentanyl crisis. The 2024 Fentanyl Forum will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, at the Berna Facio Professional Development Center in Albuquerque.

Lisa Sedillo White, Bernalillo County deputy county manager for General Services, emphasized the importance of education and community support in combating this issue: "We believe that education and community support are the ultimate tools in combating the fentanyl crisis," she said. "This forum is a vital step in equipping individuals and families with the knowledge they need to seek help and create positive change."

Open to the public without charge, registration for the forum is encouraged but not mandatory. The event will feature various expert speakers including healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, and individuals with personal experience related to fentanyl use. These speakers will discuss rising trends in fentanyl-related overdoses and share strategies for prevention and recovery.

Attendees can participate in workshops covering topics such as substance abuse treatment options, overdose prevention techniques like Naloxone administration training, emerging drug trends in New Mexico, and connections between human trafficking and fentanyl.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller highlighted the significance of collective efforts: “The fentanyl crisis is one of our nation’s biggest challenges that has impacted every corner of our city,” he stated. “This forum is bringing the community together to build upon existing strategies and find new ways to combat this deadly crisis.”

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