The Humane Organization for Substance Awareness, Inc. — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
The Humane Organization for Substance Awareness, Inc. — doing business as The Zach Project — is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in New York State.
We are dedicated to fighting stigma, raising awareness, and preventing harm caused by opioid user disorder (OUD)/substance use disorder (SUD). Our approach combines the power of personal storytelling with evidence-based education and community engagement.
One of our signature initiatives is Voices from the Opioid Crisis — the platform you are visiting now — where survivors, loved ones, and advocates share their lived experiences. These stories shine a light on the human side of this epidemic and help open the door to meaningful conversations.
In the wake of the unprecedented opioid and illicit synthetic substances crisis ravaging the U.S., there is both an urgent need and a powerful opportunity to reveal just how profound this tragic and still-unfolding story is.
This conviction guides our work. We believe that change begins when silence is broken and stigma is replaced with compassion. Through our programs, partnerships, and advocacy, we seek to empower communities with knowledge and understanding while honoring the voices of those most impacted.
Our work began with the loss of one young man — Zach.
Founder Harris Insler first carried his grief in silence. Over time, he realized that sharing his son’s story could help others. What started as a small effort to gather stories from families and friends who had lost loved ones has since grown into a multi-faceted nonprofit dedicated to prevention, education, and awareness.
This journey underscores our belief: stories have the power to heal, to connect, and to spark the change needed to save lives.
The Zach Project carries out its mission through a range of initiatives that translate individual voices into collective action:
Voices from the Opioid Crisis – A digital platform where families, people in recovery, and community members share their experiences with SUD.
It’s Not You Until It Is You – A dynamic and interactive presentation designed for schools, faith communities, and organizations, fostering understanding and prevention.
These Ghosts Must Be Heard (Podcast) – A series that amplifies the raw, unfiltered voices of those impacted by the crisis.
Every story shared chips away at stigma. Every presentation delivered opens a door to understanding. Every campaign launched makes a community stronger.
Through testimonials from parents, students, and educators, as well as partnerships with organizations such as THRIVE at Montefiore Medical Center, we see the tangible difference our work creates. We are committed to continuing this progress until prevention and compassion become the norm, not the exception.
We cannot accomplish this mission alone. Your involvement matters.
Together, we can transform grief into action, silence into dialogue, and stigma into hope.
The Humane Organization for Substance Awareness, Inc. (DBA The Zach Project) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit registered in New York State. EIN: 93-3889544. Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
