SLIPPERY ROCK TWP — A forum being held this week will address the opioid epidemic in Butler County.

The event will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday in the Slippery Rock High School auditorium, 201 Kiester Road. It is free and open to the public.

Leaders in government, court, law enforcement, medicine and the faith community are joining forces to inform the public about the drug problem and how the county is responding to the emergency. Guest speakers will include families in recovery who have firsthand experience with the effects of opioid addiction.

Dr. Mark Fuller, CEO of Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania, will speak about “Unlocking the Stigma” associated with drug abuse and Ruthane Durso, supervisor for behavioral health programs for Butler Memorial Hospital and Butler Health System, will address “How Can I Help Without Hurting.”

The Butler Eagle is among the sponsors of the forum.