The Heroin Epidemic Action League, a grassroots organization that spent nearly a decade combating addiction in Cayuga County, has announced its dissolution. Sheriff Brian Schenck shared the news in a statement, reflecting on the group’s impact and the continued fight against opioid addiction through other community initiatives.
Founded in 2015, HEAL was born out of tragedy. Schenck recalled a pivotal meeting in a tavern parking lot in Auburn, organized by grieving parents who had lost their daughter to addiction. As the meeting took place, an emergency response team was called to a nearby overdose—a stark reminder of the crisis unfolding in the community. That night, HEAL was officially launched with a mission to prevent substance abuse, support affected families, and raise awareness.
Over the years, HEAL became a driving force in the county’s fight against opioids. Through educational forums, community events, and advocacy efforts, the organization worked to shift public perception and influence policy. The group’s impact extended to elected officials, including late New York Assemblyman Gary Finch, who championed its mission in the state legislature. HEAL’s members were even recognized with a standing ovation in the New York State Assembly chambers.
Schenck, who served as a board member, acknowledged the dedication of volunteers and community members who supported HEAL’s work, from attending events to donating funds. He emphasized the importance of turning tragedy into action, noting that HEAL helped create a lasting legacy of advocacy and support for those battling addiction.
Although HEAL is dissolving, its mission will live on. The organization recently donated $20,000 to Nick’s Ride 4 Friends, a nonprofit founded by the family of Nick Campagnola, a young man lost to addiction who once helped HEAL raise awareness. The funds will establish the Assemblyman Gary Finch Fund, ensuring continued support for addiction recovery efforts in Cayuga County.
Schenck urged the community to continue supporting addiction recovery initiatives and encouraged those in need to seek help. “The ongoing need is real,” he stated, reinforcing the importance of maintaining the fight against substance abuse even as HEAL formally closes its doors.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].