Campus Surge 2025 Kicks Off in Charleston, West Virginia

From a butterfly release to life-saving tools, students gathered to honor recovery and build momentum.

Mobilize Recovery

/September 15, 2025

Mobilize Recovery officially launched the Campus Surge 2025 initiative at the University of Charleston in West Virginia—marking the first stop in a nationwide effort to address substance use and mental health challenges among college students. With support from the Drug Intervention Institute and ONEbox, the event brought together students, campus leaders, and community members to raise awareness, provide resources, and empower young people to lead recovery advocacy in their own communities.

A Day of Awareness & Connection

The kickoff was held in conjunction with West Virginia Overdose Awareness Day, underscoring the importance of remembrance, action, and prevention.

🎶 Concert by American Idol winner Noah Thompson, bringing students together through music and celebration.
🎬 Film festival and butterfly release, honoring lives lost and inspiring hope for the future.
🧠 Interactive exhibits, including the Healthy and Creative Brain experience, inviting participants to engage with hands-on learning and dialogue around recovery and wellness.

Equipping Students with Life-Saving Tools

A central focus of Campus Surge is ensuring students have access to the resources they need. Attendees received overdose reversal agents, ONEbox kits, and fentanyl and xylazine test strips—tools that can help prevent fatalities and save lives on and off campus.

Building Momentum

The Charleston event was more than just a campus gathering—it was a statement of what’s possible when students, universities, and community partners come together. Campus Surge 2025 will continue at colleges and universities across the country, growing a movement of young leaders committed to ending overdose and supporting recovery.