Overdose continues to impact families and communities across Wisconsin, making access to naloxone, recovery support, and community education more important than ever. Start Healing Now works to meet this need by expanding overdose prevention resources, supporting individuals in recovery, and helping communities become better prepared to save lives. This work is made possible through strong partnerships with community supporters, including the Terry Fritz Memorial Foundation.

In 2026, Start Healing Now will focus its efforts on the following strategic priorities to expand overdose prevention, strengthen recovery support, and increase community preparedness across Wisconsin.

1. Prevention – Expanding Access to Naloxone
Start Healing Now will continue expanding the Overdose Aid Kit (O.A.K.) Program to ensure life-saving naloxone is available and accessible in communities where it is needed most.

Key Actions

• Install 15–20 O.A.K. boxes in schools, businesses, and community locations
• Distribute naloxone to community partners and organizations
• Promote overdose response awareness and harm-reduction education
• Expand partnerships with businesses, schools, and community organizations

2. Recovery Support – Helping Individuals Stabilize in Early Recovery
SHN will support individuals transitioning into recovery by helping remove barriers to stable housing and recovery resources.

Key Actions

• Provide 5 sober living scholarships in 2026
• Explore partnerships that expand transitional or sober living opportunities
• Connect individuals and families with recovery support resources

3. Community Engagement – Increasing Awareness and Preparedness
SHN will strengthen its community presence through outreach, partnerships, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of overdose prevention and recovery resources.

Key Actions

• Participate in approximately 15 community events and conferences
• Continue to build partnerships with families, the recovery community, and other organizations working in overdose prevention and recovery

4. Organizational Sustainability – Strengthening Capacity to Grow Impact
To sustain and expand its work, SHN will continue building strong partnerships, improving
communications, and growing financial support.

Key Actions

• Expand online fundraising aligned with SHN’s mission by implementing a social media campaign that raises awareness while encouraging support for SHN’s programs
• Continue supporting and partnering with the Terry Fritz Memorial Foundation in planning and promoting the annual TFM Golf Outing
• Improve marketing materials, website tools, and outreach resources
• Recruit additional board members and volunteers