FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The City of Fort Wayne has announced plans to host its inaugural Opioid Settlement Funds Community Convening later this summer, bringing together organizations and individuals working to address the opioid crisis in northeast Indiana.

City leaders say the free public event is designed to connect frontline service providers, healthcare professionals, community organizations and residents involved in overdose prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.

The convening is scheduled for Tuesday, July 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Allen County Public Library.

Featured speakers will include Justin Phillips, founder and CEO of Overdose Lifeline, and Dr. Dong-Chul Seo of the Indiana University School of Public Health.

Mayor Sharon Tucker said the event is intended to do more than provide updates on how opioid settlement funds are being spent.

“This convening is an opportunity to bring the community together, not just to report on how settlement dollars are being used, but to learn from one another, build relationships, and strengthen our collective ability to save lives,” Tucker said.

City officials say the gathering will focus on collaboration, sharing best practices and identifying ways local organizations can work together to reduce overdoses and support recovery efforts.

The event is open to the public, and registration is available through the city.