The City of Columbia has launched its public service campaign to raise awareness about opioid overdose prevention. In a united effort led by the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE), The Courage Center, and A Second Chance Resource Center, the initiative delivers a clear and vital message: “Strong Communities Carry Narcan. Because Every Life Is Worth Saving.”
This initiative is funded through the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund (SCORF) Board and the billboards are part of a comprehensive multimedia campaign that also includes social media, printed materials, and promotional items. Seven digital billboards now stand tall along high-traffic corridors.
Billboards are located at:
- North Main Street
- Elmwood Avenue (Both directions)
- Gervais Street
- Harbison Boulevard
- Greystone Boulevard
Each digital billboard serves as visual reminders that Narcan saves lives.
As of June 30, 2025, the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement’s SCORF project has exceeded its initial goals. Through community partnerships with A Second Chance Resource Center Network United, Inc. and The Courage Center, the community impacts are evident and the work is ongoing. Together, the community partners educated 387 individuals on Good Samaritan laws, 278 individuals on opioid overdose responses, and distributed 492 naloxone kits as well as 429 fentanyl test strips to at-risk individuals. A Second Chance Resource Center connected 57 adults to peer recovery services, 53 to housing services, and 35 to employment opportunities. The Courage Center provided 58 recovery coaching sessions and trained 110 individuals to administer naloxone. Combined outreach events engaged over 500 community members, expanding access to life-saving education, treatment, and support services across the City of Columbia.
According to Amy Free, who coordinates the ONSE SCORF project, “This collaboration reflects Columbia’s unwavering commitment to community wellness and second chances. It also highlights accessible resources and life-saving tools for individuals and families affected by substance use. Together, these organizations champion recovery, resilience, and the belief that no life is disposable!”
To learn more about the SCORF project or to request free treatment services or case management, visit the partner websites:
The Courage Center | https://www.couragecentersc.org/
A Second Chance Resource Center Network United, Inc. | https://ascresource.org/contact/
City of Columbia Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement | https://crimeprevention.columbiasc.gov/
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*See attached photos
[DSC06024] Opioid overdose prevention billboard located at 1120 Elmwood Avenue
[DSC06008] Opioid overdose prevention billboard located at 1012 Gervais Street
