End Overdose is made possible by hundreds of volunteers working tirelessly across the country. Some of them are training attendees at national festivals on how to respond to an overdose, while others are packing naloxone kits in our office well into the evening hours. We want to shine a light on the people whose efforts make our resources free and accessible to all, so we’re excited to share our Volunteer of the Week: David Budnik!

David has consistently grown in his roles at End Overdose, demonstrating consistent dedication to the End Overdose mission. He founded a chapter at his alma mater at Emory, and served as chapter president, where he laid a strong foundation for lasting change. Thanks to his leadership, the chapter is now entering its second year of operations with continued momentum.

Beyond his work at Emory, David has offered support at various End Overdose festival booths, and supported the Atlanta chapter during a time of low membership, stepping in to help drive efforts forward. As a natural leader, he’s always ready to support fellow team members and other chapter, whether that means offering support or rides across state lines to make sure festival events are staffed and successful.

Now, after graduating, David has turned his energy to developing the NYC chapter, taking on the role of administrative lead and spearheading efforts to grow its membership. His ongoing commitment to End Overdose continues to make an impact, ensuring that no one else has to die. We are so thankful for the work that David has put into the organization!

David's background

I recently graduated from Emory University with a B.S. in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology and founded the Emory chapter while I was there. I am currently working as a medical assistant as I am applying to medical school and volunteer with End Overdose out of NYC now. Outside of work, you can find me hanging out with friends and going to raves.

What inspired him to join End Overdose

I found out about End Overdose from going to raves in Atlanta and hearing about it through artists like Illenium. Seeing how overdoses had impacted my family, university and rave scene, I wanted to get involved to help people and raise awareness of this issue. I couldn’t have asked for a better community of people who have been so critical in my development as a human being and for being diligent to make a change in people’s lives.

Favorites memories from volunteering

My favorite memories with End Overdose have been volunteering alongside the Atlanta chapter (shoutout Olive!) and meeting everyone at EDC Las Vegas this year. Working with the Atlanta chapter has been very exciting as I got to meet some of the most inspiring people ever and cool artists that have been in the scene for a long time. Being at EDC Las Vegas was a dream come true and I am grateful to have met all the amazing people that keep End Overdose moving forward. The impact we make as volunteers is noticed by our community and that motivates me to continue volunteering with End Overdose.