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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: Jason Alvarez!
From his days at the UC Riverside chapter, to becoming Co-President of End Overdose's Bay Area chapter, Jason has been an essential contributor to our volunteer team. Whether he's spearheading capturing content with artists at festivals like Breakaway or training tons of festival attendees, we're immensely grateful for Jason!
Can you tell us about yourself and your story?
I’m a recent graduate from the University of California, Riverside, Class of ’25. Since arriving at college in 2021, I sought out meaningful organizations that make a positive impact within the communities they serve. I was fortunate to meet the right people and eventually joined UCR’s End Overdose chapter in the Fall of 2023. Since then, I have been given opportunities to educate and train communities on the harms of fentanyl through medical intervention, public awareness, and prevention strategies aimed at reducing drug-related overdose deaths. As my involvement has grown, I have taken on greater responsibility and now serve as the co-president of the Bay Area Chapter in Northern California.
What inspired you to volunteer for End Overdose?
My decision to volunteer with End Overdose was deeply personal. I have witnessed overdoses firsthand and observed the bystander effect in real time, watching people hesitate or step aside during critical moments. These experiences motivated me to take action. The work I do with End Overdose feels both meaningful and necessary. Listening to people share their stories about the devastating impact fentanyl had on their lives reinforces the importance of my role and reminds me that educating my community can empower individuals to act without hesitation.
What’re your favorite memories of volunteering with End Overdose?
One of my favorite memories was volunteering my first event in Ohio at Excision’s curated festival, Lost Lands, in 2024. The individuals I trained were incredibly appreciative and engaged, which made the experience more rewarding. Knowing that the education I provided contributed to a safer environment made the event not only memorable, but deeply fulfilling.