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 May Volunteer of the Month: Katherine Kafkis!

Chapter & Operations Coordinator Olive Younts says, "Katherine Kafkis has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication as the founding president of the University of Wisconsin–Madison End Overdose Chapter. Taking initiative in launching the chapter, and successfully coordinating overdose prevention training sessions. Kafkis has focused on building partnerships that have been well received by both faculty and community members, fostering a safe, and prepared campus enviroment. As a graduating chapter founder, Katherine leaves behind a strong foundation, her leadership has equipped a team ready to continue educating and making an impact on campus for years to come."

Can you tell us about yourself and your story?

I am originally from the north suburbs of Chicago and went to college at UW-Madison - just graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering. I am moving to Chicago soon to start my new job as a patent engineer at a law firm. I am currently at Yellowstone National Park and hope to visit all the national parks some day - this is the 10th national park i've been to!

What inspired you to volunteer for End Overdose?

I started working with End Overdose my sophomore year of college when my roommate, Ishi, stumbled across one of their videos online. She shared this video with me and I immediately knew I had to get involved. I have lost friends and loved ones to overdose and knew that a resource like EO was something my campus needed. Ishi and I then started up the UW-Madison chapter of End Overdose and we both plan to continue volunteering throughout our post-grad lives!

What’s your favorite memory of volunteering with End Overdose?

My favorite memory with EO would have to be EDC 2023 and 2025. These are the only HQ events I have been able to volunteer at and I just love meeting everyone I see only on Slack. At events like these, the impact that we make as volunteers really comes to light as most people only express gratitude for what we do.