Turning Delaware Purple to Take a Stand Against Substance Use and Celebrate Recovery

We invite you to join us in supporting Delaware Goes Purple, a statewide movement dedicated to reducing stigma, raising awareness about substance use disorder, and celebrating recovery. Now in its seventh year, this initiative unites communities, schools, businesses, faith groups, and leaders across the state to stand together and say: Recovery is Possible.

What began as a grassroots movement has evolved into a powerful statewide campaign—mobilizing individuals, families, and organizations to take meaningful action.

In 2024, confirmed drug overdose deaths in Delaware fell dramatically to 338, down nearly 36% from 527 in 2023. At a time when our heartaches and losses continue, this is a meaningful win and a testament to proactive, coordinated prevention and support.

As Governor Meyer reflected, “Every life saved is a family kept whole…”news.delaware.gov. And yet, the work is far from over—because while we’ve turned a corner, we must sustain these gains and reach zero overdose deaths. Together, we can turn the tide. “Delaware Goes Purple takes a stand against substance abuse in Delaware. Recovery is possible,” said Peggy Geisler, Executive Director of the Sussex County Health Coalition, which launched and coordinates the initiative.

This campaign aligns with National Recovery Month, observed every September, and extends its outreach efforts into October. Purple—the official color of the recovery movement—serves as a bold, unifying symbol of hope, healing, and community strength.

Why Partner with Delaware Goes Purple?
When you “Go Purple,” you are not just supporting one event—you are joining a campaign that:

• Engages thousands of Delawareans through education, outreach, and public awareness.
• Provides communities with the tools and resources needed to prevent substance use disorder and promote recovery.
• Reduces stigma by making conversations about addiction visible in schools, neighborhoods, workplaces, and places of worship.
• Elevates hope by connecting families and individuals to resources and stories of recovery.

Your support demonstrates leadership, compassion, and a commitment to strengthening Delaware communities. Sponsorship opportunities and recognition levels are available – CLICK HERE

How You Can Participate Right Now

• Take the Pledge: Sign the commitment – CLICK HERE
• Attend or Host a Narcan Training: Learn how to save a life with overdose reversal training
• Wear Purple: Coordinate a purple day at your school, workplace, or place of worship
• Get Social: Share your support online and tag @DelawareGoesPurple
• Advocate: Contact your legislators at legis.delaware.gov to support addiction and recovery programs
• Share Your Story: Break stigma and inspire others by sharing why recovery matters

Stay Tuned

Over the next two weeks, we’ll be releasing a toolkit filled with resources to help you and your organization “Go Purple” during your own events.
Together, let’s build a Delaware free from the grip of substance use—and full of opportunity, recovery, and life.

Take the pledge today. CLICK HERE