Register for upcoming opioid awareness webinars or view previous learning series webinars. Additionally, "Prescriber Education" designed to satisfy the NJ one hour CME requirement is available through this link.
Marijuana use among all adult age groups, both sexes, and pregnant women is going up. At the same time, the perception of how harmful marijuana use can be is declining.
MILLBURN, NJ — After years of devastating losses tied to substance use and suicide, new national data showing a decline in deaths offers a measure of hope. Prevention leaders say the progress is encouraging, but fragile, and must be met with continued investment in education, responsible prescribing, treatment and recovery support.
ATLANTIC CITY — Hundreds of older adults, caregivers, healthcare professionals, social service providers, community leaders and advocates gathered Friday, June 5, for the 2nd Annual NJ Healthy Aging Summit on Opioid Safety & Alternatives at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino.
ATLANTIC CITY — The 2nd Annual NJ Healthy Aging Summit on Opioid Safety & Alternatives will be held on Friday, June 5, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. Convened by the PDFNJ, the summit will highlight the risks associated with prescription opioid use among older adults while promoting evidence-based alternatives and resources that support healthy aging.
With a strong commitment to prevention, education and community well-being, Angelo Valente leads efforts to address one of today’s most pressing public health challenges. As executive director of The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, he works to raise awareness and promote healthier choices across communities throughout the state.
PRINCETON JUNCTION, NJ — Chloé Cheng of Princeton Junction, a junior at The Peddie School, has been named the winner of the 22nd Annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey music competition.
PDFNJ has announced the finalists for its 2026 Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs fourth grade contest. The program highlights students’ artistic creativity and inspiring messages, and two student designs will be featured on bookmarks distributed to classrooms across New Jersey in 2026.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo Valente testified before the NJ State Assembly Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee on March 19 in support of Bill A1821, which would prohibit health insurance carriers from denying coverage of nonopioid prescription drugs in favor of opioid prescription drugs.
“Whether you’re 16 or 65, you still have the same kind of risk if you are prescribed an opioid,” said Angelo Valente, executive director of PDFNJ.
MILLBURN, NJ — Atlantic Health and PDFNJ Trustee Lawrence Cooper will be honored at PDFNJ's 32nd Angel of Hope Gala on April 29 at Liberty House in Jersey City.
MILLBURN, NJ — Four talented high school acts from across New Jersey are raising their voices against impaired driving as finalists in the 22nd Annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey competition, organized by PDFNJ.
New Jersey is leading the fight against heroin and opioid overdose deaths, which have dropped to their lowest levels in five years.
The first webinar in the 2026 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series will address the growing threat of synthetic opioids in a session titled “Opioids & Synthetics: What We Need to Know.” The free session will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 29, and is presented by PDFNJ, the Office of Alternative and Community Responses (OACR), and the Opioid Education Foundation of America (OEFA).
Milburn, NJ — New Jersey drug overdose deaths fell to the lowest total in five years in 2025, continuing a sharp decline that began after the COVID-19 pandemic. The statistics were revealed in a study released on January 15 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Milburn, NJ —The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) invites New Jersey business leaders to its 26th annual members webinar, “What Does Being a Drug-Free Workplace Mean in 2026?” at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10. This free webinar is part of PDFNJ’s workplace prevention initiative, Drugs Don’t Work in New Jersey.
MILLBURN, NJ – The 2025 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series helped NJ prescribers deepen their understanding of safer, non-opioid pain management options, advancing efforts to reduce opioid misuse that are expected to help more than a million New Jersey residents.
MILLBURN, NJ — Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey (PDFNJ), with support from the PSEG Foundation, will distribute its Third Grade Life Choices Coloring & Activity Book to 40,000 third-grade students across New Jersey this year.
Millburn, NJ — A 9,000 percent rise since 2015 in overdose deaths involving fentanyl among adults over 65 is prompting a statewide effort to provide older adults with the information they need to age safely. An educational video, which is part of PDFNJ's Healthy Aging campaign, will empower older NJ residents with clear, accessible guidance on opioid risks and safer pain-management strategies.
Newark, NJ — Former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas knows a lot about pain. He sustained many serious injuries during his pro football career. Since leaving the game, he has spoken openly and often about the pain of his opioid addiction and his recovery. But when Lucas came to Newark on Monday, one student’s testimony brought him to tears.
KOOAD webinar provides overview of the opioid crisis by NJSP Captain Jason Piotrowski
Elaine Pozycki, Chair of PDFNJ: NJ has experienced a hopeful shift in addressing the opioid crisis. NJ CARES, which provides data and information on the opioid crisis in the state, is reporting a steady decline in overdose deaths from previous years. The strategies NJ has invested in — prevention and treatment access — is making a difference.
Milburn, NJ — PDFNJ announced the launch of its 2026 Healthy Aging Campaign, a statewide initiative dedicated to providing age-specific opioid safety education and resources for older adults, their caregivers, and the professionals who work with them. The campaign seeks to address the growing opioid risks facing older adults, a population often overlooked in traditional prevention and awareness efforts.
MILLBURN, NJ — High school musicians across New Jersey are invited to use their talents to create original songs with impactful messages about the dangers of impaired driving. The 22nd annual "Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey!" competition is open for entries until February 1, 2026. The winner will be awarded a $5,000 music contract and will have the opportunity to share their song and message across the state during the upcoming year.
Program will address the effects of marijuana on youth and in the workplace.
Your Song! Your Voice! winner Martin Rojas Ortiz performed his prevention song “Bruno” at Red Ribbon Day in Cranford on October 11. Pictured: Martin with Kelley Ryan, Director of Community Prevention at Prevention Links, and Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ.
NJ is presenting a united front against the opioid epidemic as communities across the state gear up for the annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day on Monday, October 6.
TRENTON - New Jersey residents are coming together today for Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day, a statewide initiative aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of prescription opioid misuse and the growing threat of illicit drugs like fentanyl. This annual observance is spearheaded by PDFNJ in collaboration with the Governor’s Council on Substance Use Disorder, the New Jersey Department of Human Services, and local coalitions and communities.
ATLANTIC CITY — The first-ever NJ Healthy Aging Summit, convened by the PDFNJ in partnership with the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, was held in Atlantic City on Friday, September 26. The event brought together 500 older adults, caregivers, and healthcare and social service professionals to hear from nationally recognized experts about the risks associated with the misuse of opioid pain relievers by older adults.
PDFNJ earned top honors at the 57th Annual Jersey Awards, receiving two first-place awards for its nonprofit public service campaigns.
PDFNJ earned top honors at the 57th Annual Jersey Awards, receiving two first-place awards for its nonprofit public service campaigns. The event, held on Wednesday, September 17, was organized and judged by the New Jersey Ad Club, the state’s largest association representing advertisers, marketers, media, and public relations professionals.
A conference later this month will examine the keys to healthy aging and the challenges that prescribed opioids and opioid dependency pose to the older adult population. "NJ Healthy Aging Summit: Opioid Safety & Alternatives" will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, September 26, at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.
MILLBURN, NJ—When 40,000 fourth-grade students across New Jersey return to school, they’ll find an important message in their books encouraging them to stay drug-free, thanks to PDFNJ's "Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs" bookmark initiative.
Teen activist Tanvi Narava organized a candlelight vigil mark International Overdose Awareness Day on August 7. She also partnered with PDFNJ to create a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series webinar on overdose intervention.
Today's marijuana is more potent than strains in the past. That's the message PDFNJ's new campaign is spreading,
PDNJ's Executive Director Angelo M. Valente (left) attended the 2025 National Prevention Network Conference in Washington, D.C., where Rear Admiral Dr. Christopher M. Jones (center) was keynote speaker. New Jersey Prevention Network CEO Diane Litterer (right) was also a speaker on the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education panel. Held August 11–13, the conference focused on “Substance Use Prevention Across the Lifespan.”
MILLBURN, NJ — PDFNJ has launched a bold new public awareness campaign urging parents across the state to confront a troubling truth: the illicit marijuana their children have access to today is far more potent than the cannabis they may have encountered as teens.
Angelo M. Valente, Ex. Dir. of PDFNJ, discusses the importance of being a resilient leader.
KOOAD webinar explores the rapidly growing rate of opioid use among senior citizens.
PDFNJ’s Angelo Valente discusses the drop in overdose deaths in New Jersey and continuing efforts to address the issue.
The Partnership For A Drug-Free New Jersey has teamed with the PSE&G Foundation to bring a healthy life choices message to 3rd grade students at Union City’s St. Francis Academy.
PSE&G and the PSEG Foundation were recently honored with the Angel of Hope Award at the 31st Annual Angel of Hope Gala hosted by PDFNJ.
MILLBURN –The next webinar in the 2025 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series will focus on addressing the unequal burden of the opioid crisis across racial and ethnic groups. The session is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 12 and is presented by PDFNJ, the Office of Alternative and Community Responses, and the Opioid Education Foundation of America.
HACKENSACK — Martin Rojas Ortiz, 16, has seen firsthand the dangers of teenage drug and alcohol use.
JERSEY CITY—The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) celebrated the contributions of PSE&G, the PSEG Foundation, and former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas at its annual Angel of Hope Gala on Tuesday, May 14, at the Liberty House.
Millburn, NJ — Hackensack High School student Martin Rojas Ortiz has been named the winner of the 21st Annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs music competition. Martin, who is in the 11th grade, earned a $5,000 music contract with the PDFNJ for his original song, “Bruno.”
MILLBURN, NJ— Adrian Camilo, a student at John F. Kennedy Elementary School in Jamesburg, and Madison Gunsch, a student at McDivitt Elementary School in Old Bridge, were named winners of PDFNJ's 2025 Fun Things to Do Instead of Doing Drugs contest.
Glassboro, NJ — High school student-athletes from across New Jersey gathered at Rowan University's Pfleeger Concert Hall on Tuesday for a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall focused on raising awareness about the dangers of prescription opioid misuse and promoting healthy decision-making among youth.
Tabernacle, NJ — Student-athletes at Seneca High School will receive crucial education on the risks of prescription opioids from a quarterback with first-hand knowledge of their devastating impact.
PDFNJ has announced the finalists in the 21st annual "Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs" music competition. This statewide initiative encourages high school students to use their musical creativity to raise awareness about substance use prevention and promote healthy lifestyles.
PDFNJ has announced the finalists for its 2025 "Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs" contest. The contest highlights students' artistic creativity and inspiring messages, and the grand prize winner’s creation will be showcased on bookmarks distributed throughout the state.
MILLBURN, NJ — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) invites New Jersey businesses to its 25th annual members webinar, “A Legal Update,” at 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This free event is part of the PDFNJ's workplace prevention program, Drugs Don't Work in NJ.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir Angelo M. Valente explains why teen drug and alcohol use continues to decline.
Nationally, Essex County and several other New Jersey counties were among the hardest hit by that disparity, with older Black men dying at a pace that far exceeds their share of the population, according to deaths reported to the CDC from 2018 to 2022 that were analyzed by The Baltimore Banner, The New York Times and Stanford University’s Big Local News.
NJ saw a decline in drug-related deaths in 2024
According to the latest results from the FDU Poll, sponsored by PDFNJ and the Opioid Education Foundation of America, both parents and non-parents in the state agree that social media is bad for young people, and favor cigarette-style warning labels. However, parents are less likely to think that social media is bad for the mental health of young people, and less likely to say that it is linked with substance abuse issues.
Former quarterback Ray Lucas talks to students about dangers of opioid abuse at KOOAD event in Camden.
MILLBURN, NJ – New Jersey organizations, law enforcement representatives and residents united earlier this month to educate their communities about the opioid epidemic as part of the ninth annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day. Spearheaded by PDFNJ, the initiative highlighted the dangers of opioid misuse and empowered residents with critical resources.
Adam Idrovo of Good Shepherd Academy in Nutley was one of two grand prize winners of PDFNJ’s 2023-24 Fourth Grade Folder contest. His winning artwork is displayed on 30,000 folders distributed to fourth-grade classes throughout the state. Emily Ortiz of Lafayette Street School in Newark was also selected as a grand prize winner.
New Jersey is on track to record a significant decline in drug overdose deaths for 2024, with a 26% drop compared to 2023, as the state prepares to observe Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day on October 6.
While overdose deaths have dropped sharply in New Jersey, the high number of fatalities remains a concern.
CEDAR GROVE, NJ — PDFNJ earned recognition for its efforts to tackle the opioid crisis, earning three 1st place awards and one 2nd place award at the 56th Annual Jersey Awards on September 18. The awards are organized and judged by the New Jersey Ad Club, the largest association in NJ representing advertisers, marketers, media and public relations professionals.
Emily Ortiz & Adam Idrovo were grand prize winners of PDFNJ’s 2023-24 Fourth Grade Folder contest. Their winning artwork is displayed on 30,000 folders distributed to fourth grade classes throughout the state.
PDFNJ & PSEG Foundation's "3rd Grade Healthy Life - Healthy Decisions Coloring & Activity Book" featured in U.S. Dept. of Justice's Community Policing Dispatch newsletter
Statistics gathered so far suggest New Jersey is on pace to record a significant decline in the number of drug overdose deaths in 2024.
NFL veteran Ray Lucas spoke to students at Jefferson High School, continuing his involvement with PDFNJ's Knock Out Opioid Abuse initiative.
The language we use can harm or help people struggling with substance use disorders.
PDFNJ partnered with state agencies on a new initiative that uses pharmacy bags to convey the message that prescription medications can be as dangerous as alcohol when driving.
A coalition of New Jersey organizations, including the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Office of the Attorney General, launched an initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of driving under the influence of prescription medications by distributing pharmacy bags with safety messages to over 900 pharmacies statewide.
On June 11, 2024, Angelo Valente, Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director, and Maria Spina, Manager of the PSE&G Foundation, spoke to third-grade students at Alan B. Shepard Jr. Elementary School in Old Bridge and distributed a Healthy Choices Activity Book.
“Has Fentanyl Peaked?” offers a glimmer of hope in the opioid crisis that is ravaging our nation, communities and families.
Continuing to support and expand prevention programs is essential for maintaining, and even accelerating, the decline in opioid overdose deaths in New Jersey and across the country.
BARNEGAT, NJ—Jordan Ford, a senior at Barnegat High School, clinched first place in the 20th Annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs competition, sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. Ford's winning entry, "Fading," captures the struggles of drug misuse through a deeply personal narrative, earning him a $5,000 music contract.
WWOR-TV/My9; and Paul S. Rotella, Esq., immediate past President and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association, were honored at the gala for their efforts in raising awareness about the opioid crisis.
Preliminary numbers released by the CDC show an almost 12% percent decrease in deaths from opioids in New Jersey.
MILLBURN, NJ - Adam Idrovo from Good Shepherd Academy in Nutley and Emily Ortiz from Lafayette Street School in Newark emerged as winners of PDFNJ's 2023-2024 4th Grade Folder Contest. Drawing entries from thousands of fourth graders throughout the state, the competition celebrated young students' creativity in promoting healthy, drug-free lifestyles through their artwork. The winners and the other finalists were honored at a virtual awards ceremony on Thursday, May 9.
MILLBURN, NJ—Original songs from high school students from across New Jersey were broadcast in a virtual concert on May 8, which also served as the finale for the 20th Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs competition. Organized by PDFNJ, the competition highlighted the students' musical talents and dedication to a drug-free lifestyle. The concert attracted about 1,500 listeners who tuned in to support the young artists and listen to their inspiring lyrics.
Poll results released on Thursday suggest that opioids are far less common today in New Jersey households compared to years ago, and most residents know best practices when it comes to safeguarding and disposing of potentially dangerous medications.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo M. Valente discusses dismantling the barriers hindering access to non-opioid pain treatments, particularly for seniors under Medicare Part D. The proposed federal "Alternatives to Prevent Addiction in the Nation (Alternatives to PAIN) Act" seeks to build upon "Opioid Patients’ Right to Know Act", a landmark achievement pioneered in NJ.
Opioid use among youth athletes continues to increase, according to speakers at an opioid prevention conference held Friday at Golden Nugget Atlantic City.
Combating the opioid crisis in youth sports was the focus of a PDFNJ conference in Atlantic City.
Atlantic City, NJ — PDFNJ, along with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and the Opioid Education Foundation of America, hosted the "Keeping New Jersey Youth Athletes Safe" conference at the Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on Friday. The event gathered coaches, athletic directors, teachers, school nurses, and others involved in youth sports to discuss the link between athletics and opioid misuse.
Students can lend their musical talents to promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle through PDFNJ’s “Your Song! Your Voice Shout Down Drugs” competition.
ATLANTA — PDFNJ showcased Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day and the accompanying Learning Series at the Rx and Illicit Drug Summit held this week in Atlanta.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey's webinar emphasizes the crucial need for integrated treatment of addiction and mental health disorders.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo Valente said awareness about the dangers of fentanyl is rising among teens, but it’s still important for parents to sit down with their kids and talk about it.
As spring break approaches, college students face a hidden danger: the prevalence of fentanyl-laced street drugs, a lethal issue emphasizing the need for awareness and prevention.
The recent New York Times article shedding light on the surge in nighttime pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. underscores a critical and pressing issue: the dangers of driving under the influence of substances like opioids, marijuana, or alcohol.
MILLBURN — The Honorable Travis L. Francis has been named to the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) Board of Trustees.
MILLBURN, NJ — In its continued mission to nurture healthier family dynamics and mental wellness among youth, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) has announced the launch of its bilingual 2024 Public Service Campaign, “Eat. Hug. Love.” which aims to foster family bonding and improve youth mental health.
New Jersey drug overdose deaths are poised to dip slightly for the second year in a row in a continuing crisis that annually claims the lives of thousands of residents.
“Educating medical professionals on the risks and proper ways to treat pain and prescribe opioids is crucial to combatting the opioid epidemic our state and country are facing,” PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente said.
Prosecutors in Cumberland, Salem, and Gloucester counties are collaborating with the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) to offer scholarships for opioid prescribing education to healthcare providers.
2023 Middle School PSA Challenge winner Cameron Parez-Alcalde of Wayne shares the inspiration for his video that encourages young people to embrace a healthy lifestyle.
As Veterans Day draws near, we are reminded to pay homage to the brave individuals who serve our nation. This solemn day calls for more than reflection; it demands an acknowledgment of the stark realities many veterans contend with post-service, especially the battles waged against mental health disorders and addiction.
About 53% of people who misuse pain relievers in the United States obtain the medication from friends or relatives. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is observing its annual American Medicine Chest Challenge National Day of Awareness, emphasizing the importance of safe disposal practices, securing medications, and fostering open discussions about the risks of prescription drug misuse.
As New Jersey is set to receive a significant amount of money from the national opioid settlement, the need to respond with a comprehensive and all-encompassing approach has never been greater. Our mission is clear: to alleviate the suffering of those affected, support individuals grappling with opioid use disorder, and reinforce programs that prevent future dependencies and addiction.
As a part of our Authority Magazine's series about “Heroes Of The Addiction Crisis,” they had the pleasure of interviewing Angelo M. Valente, Ex. Dir. of PDFNJ.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is again striking a powerful chord with its 20th annual Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey competition. High school students with a passion for music are invited to compose an original piece centered around a crucial theme: substance use prevention.
Hunterdon County Commissioner Director Zach Rich Tuesday presented a proclamation to members of the Hunterdon County Youth Coalition (HCYC) at their monthly meeting identifying Oct. 6th as “Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day” in Hunterdon County
"In many cases, even the local dealers that are selling these drugs are not even aware of what's being put into them," said Angelo Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
"Although even one life lost is too many, we are very encouraged to see that New Jersey is on track to be among the few states witnessing a decline in opioid-related overdoses over the past year." - Angelo Valente, Executive Director - PDFNJ
MILLBURN, NJ – New Jersey is presenting a united front against the opioid epidemic as communities across the state gear up for the eighth annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day on Friday, October 6th.
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of longtime Board Member Marc D’Angiolillo. Marc was the Vice Chair of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Board of Trustees and was dedicated to the mission of our organization. We are thankful for Marc’s outstanding leadership, friendship, guidance, and wisdom. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
MILLBURN, NJ — Residents from communities throughout New Jersey members will mobilize in one month to address the opioid epidemic ravaging the state as part of the eighth annual statewide Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day.
Millburn, NJ — With the legalization of marijuana use by adults in New Jersey, employers face new challenges in maintaining safe and drug-free workplaces. To address this crucial issue, PDFNJ is hosting a free virtual webinar, Marijuana in the Workplace: The Challenge of Measuring Impairment, at 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 19. The webinar is sponsored by PDFNJ’s workplace prevention program, Drugs Don't Work in NJ.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey mourns the passing of New Jersey Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver. Lt. Governor Oliver was a trailblazing politician and outstanding role model.
NJ is losing too many of our children to the opioid and fentanyl crisis. In order to reverse this epidemic we need to continue to focus on education and prevention efforts, along with treatment options and collaboration with our prescribers and law enforcement who have the tools to support each of these efforts. NJ has, and continues to be, a leader in the collaboration between law enforcement and prevention - on the federal, state, county, and local levels. The FEND Off Fentanyl Act is crucial to supporting these efforts.
PATERSON — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and the PSEG Foundation have collaborated to send a message to 35,000 young New Jersey students across the state on the importance of healthy choices through the annual Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book.
PDFNJ's Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey Prevention Concert will be taking center stage as 95.9 FM WRAT’s Jersey Rock Podcast Video of the Week
MILLBURN, NJ — A Mercer County teen used his musical talent to shout down drugs by creating a unique substance use prevention song to win first place in the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Your Song! Your Voice! music competition.
PISCATAWAY, NJ — Hundreds of high school athletes from throughout the state received an education on the risks of prescription opioids from former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas at Rutgers University on Wednesday.
New Jersey lawmakers are looking to regulate the use of Kratom, a controversial and potentially dangerous herbal drug that has been gaining popularity.
MILLBURN — Twenty-six New Jersey high school students have been selected as finalists for their original music and lyrics featuring powerful peer-to-peer messages about substance use, misuse and prevention for the 2023 Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey music competition organized by PDFNJ.
Former NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas shares his personal story of addiction and recovery with Matawan Regional High School student athletes.
Former NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas spoke with WWOR about the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey's Knock Out Opioid Abuse Student Athlete Initiative.
PDFNJ's Angela Conover discusses the disturbing rise of fentanyl overdoses in New Jersey on WMBC News.
There are safer alternatives to address acute pain without opiates. Many dentists have been using over-the-counter medications, ibuprofen, and other medications that they have found to be very effective in addressing this type of pain.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) 2023 public service campaign is putting the focus on key issues facing New Jersey families— opioids, fentanyl and stress levels among teens that could lead to experimentation and substance use disorder.
PDFNJ Executive Director, Angelo M. Valente, joins the WMBC-TV Hometown Program to take a closer look at the opioid epidemic in New Jersey.
PDFNJ Chair, Elaine Pozycki, explains how opioid education is saving lives through awareness and education.
MILLBURN, NJ — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator for Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (NJ CARES) will renew the popular Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series for 2023 with a new slate of topics and expert speakers focused on the opioid crisis.
Third grade students throughout New Jersey to receive PDFNJ's PSEG Foundation Healthy Life - Healthy Decisions Coloring & Activity Book. Online ordering is now open.
PDFNJ's Knock Out Opioid Abuse Student Athlete Initiative resumes in 2023 to bring opioid education to New Jersey student athletes.
MILLBURN, NJ — Adult use of marijuana is now legal in NJ and employers are required to address this issue from a workplace perspective. New Jersey business leaders who are interested in maintaining a safe, healthy and drug-free workplace are invited to participate in PDFNJ’s FREE Webinar: The Challenges of Addressing Marijuana & Measuring Impairment in the New Jersey Workplace, at 11 a.m. on Thursday, February 9, 2023.
PDFNJ has wrapped up a successful 2022 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series and will renew its partnership with the NJ CARES to host the webinar series in 2023 along with the Opioid Education Foundation of America.
PDFNJ Executive Director, Angelo Valente explains that the CDC has reported that drug overdoses among seniors more than tripled between 2000 and 2020, and there is a surge in deaths among seniors related to fentanyl and other synthetic opioids.
PDFNJ's Learning Series Webinar wrapped up 2022 with a look back at the opioid epidemic and detailing what is to come for 2023.
PDFNJ has wrapped up a successful 2022 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series and will renew its partnership with the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator of Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (NJ CARES) to host the webinar series in 2023 along with the Opioid Education Foundation of America.
Ocean County Prosecutor, Billhimer partners with PDFNJ to ensure life-saving messages about prescription opioids are reaching Ocean County residents.
Millburn, New Jersey — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is one of the most trusted sources for information about opioid addiction and education, according to a statewide survey conducted by the Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll.
PDFNJ is calling on New Jersey fifth through eighth-grade students to enter the Middle School PSA Scriptwriting and Video Challenge to have a chance to win $1000 and have their video shared across PDFNJ social media as part of the peer-to-peer substance use messaging.
Former NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas to address Howell High School student athletes on the dangers of prescription opioids at the next PDFNJ Knock Out Opioid Abuse Student Athlete Town Hall Initiative on November 16.
New CDC guidelines follow New Jersey's Patient Notification Act. recommending placing a priority on non-opioid treatment for patients experiencing pain before starting opioid therapy.
We are encouraged that the new CDC guidelines recommend and underscore the importance of medical practitioners having a conversation with patients to warn about the risks of dependence and addiction; and, to discuss the use of non-opioid pain relief alternatives before prescribing an opioid pain killer.
BERGENFIELD, NJ — Two students at Hoover Elementary School in Bergenfield were selected as co-winners of PDFNJ's Fourth Grade “Fun Things to Do Instead of Drugs” Artwork Contest. This is the first time in the contest’s 20-year history that two winners have won from the same school.
Former Rutgers and NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas visited Clifton High School to talk to student athletes about the dangers of prescription opioids as part of PDFNJ's Knock Out Opioid Abuse Initiative.
PDFNJ wants New Jersey high school students to showcase their musical talents for the Your Song! Your Voice! competition!
PDFNJ's Angela Conover details PDFNJ's efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and how a significant new bill backed by two members of Congress from New Jersey will focus on a wide spectrum of substance use from prevention to treatment and recovery.
New Jersey residents spread awareness of the opioid epidemic for the 7th Annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is teaming up with the Super Football Conference to help raise awareness among student athletes about the dangers of prescription opioids as part of the 7th annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day being held on October 6.
MILLBURN, NJ – The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is saddened by the death of Former Governor Jim Florio and offer our sincerest condolences to the Florio family.
Former Rutgers and NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas visited Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School to talk to student athletes about the dangers of prescription opioids as part of PDFNJ's Knock Out Opioid Abuse Initiative.
PDFNJ won six NJ Ad Club Awards at this year’s event. Campaigns awarded first place included the Marijuana and Teens Track PSA, the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series, and the Protect Your Family Spanish Language Mask Campaign.
PDFNJ is calling on creative fourth graders to test their artistic skills for its annual Fourth Grade Folder Contest for the 2022-2023 school year. Enter today!
PDFNJ's Executive Director, Angelo Valente explains the need for drug prevention and recovery to help combat the opioid epidemic in New Jersey.
Student athletes at Harrison High School received an education on the risks of prescription opioids from a familiar face, Harrison native and former NFL quarterback Ray Lucas.
A new street drug is being found in New Jersey. Xylazine, an animal tranquilizer used in cattle, horses and sheep, is being added to narcotics like cocaine, heroin and methamphetamines, and in many cases these concoctions also include fentanyl.
Public health officials in Chicago are urging would-be Lollapalooza-goers to test their drugs for Fentanyl, citing concerns of potential overdoses during the four-day music festival.
Drug experts are warning methamphetamine use is on the rise in New Jersey. PDFNJ's Executive Director, Angelo Valente explains that there is a resurgence of the use of meth, unlike what we’ve seen in the past. The drug is now showing up in cities, the suburbs and even rural areas.
If you're struggling with a substance use disorder, knowing where to find the proper help can be overwhelming. New Jersey is here to help. The state has launched a free, online tool aimed at giving people information about addiction treatment programs throughout the state.
Go ahead, get high. This is the message New Jersey is permitting municipalities to send to school children and young adult college students. Though the law adopted by voters restricts legal use of marijuana to those 21 and older, there are no state mandated restrictions on where municipalities may approve retail and consumption stores.
PDFNJ's Executive Director, Angelo Valente explains that fentanyl is being mixed with so many illegal substances and as a result fentanyl overdose deaths continue to rise in New Jersey. Because of its potency, in some cases, a second dose of naloxone is necessary to help save lives.
PHL-17's Jennifer Lewis Hall sat down with Angela Conover, PDFNJ's Director of Opioid Prevention and Response to talk about the impact of opioids, fentanyl and overdose related deaths during the pandemic.
JERSEY CITY — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) honored Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey with the Angel of Hope Award for its leadership in addressing New Jersey’s opioid epidemic at the Angel of Hope Gala held May 18.
Listen to Keyoni's winning song
Two Bergen County Students Win PDFNJ's Statewide Fourth Grade Folder Contest. Sean Arrieta and Kristen Williams both from Hoover Elementary School in Bergenfield were selected as co-winners of the contest. Their designs will be featured on the 40,000 folders distributed to fourth grade classrooms throughout the state this fall.
It is with great sadness that the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey mourns the passing of longtime PDFNJ Board Member Michael Pasterchick. Mike served on the board for 16 years, sharing his law enforcement expertise and passion to help spread PDFNJ’s mission throughout New Jersey.
“Fentanyl is so inexpensive, it’s getting cut into every drug: into marijuana, into cocaine. There are pills being made that look like pills but they’re actually fentanyl,” said Angela Conover, director of opioid response and prevention at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
MILLBURN — Providing the education and tools to help families safeguard their home and children from substance use is the goal of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) expansion of its online parent education program to include a Spanish language version.
MILLBURN — New Jersey high school students across the state are raising their voice and sharing powerful messages about substance misuse and prevention for the 2022 Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey music competition.
Drug overdose deaths in New Jersey rose by one percent in 2021, according to preliminary figures. The increase in deaths is modest when compared to other states, but advocates say the numbers show that New Jersey remains in crisis mode.
Scotch Plains, NJ— PDFNJ & the PSEG Foundation are collaborating once again to send a message to New Jersey students across the state on the importance of healthy choices through the annual Third Grade Healthy Life Healthy Decisions Coloring and Activity Book. The third grade students at Brunner Elementary School in Scotch Plains received their books this week.
PHL-17's Jennifer Lewis-Hall spoke with Former NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas to discuss the latest PDFNJ Knock Out Opioid Abuse initiative to educate student athletes about opioid use and addiction.
Experts will discuss the opioid epidemic in New Jersey and its impact on families in the next installment of the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series, presented by PDFNJ & NJ CARES, which is responsible for overseeing addiction-fighting efforts across the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.
Former NFL Quarterback Ray Lucas shares his personal story of opioid addiction and recovery with Lakewood High School student athletes as part of the latest Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day initiative in collaboration with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, in collaboration with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA).
The legalization of the recreational use of marijuana in New Jersey has created confusion in the workplace. Employers have a lot of unanswered questions about legalization of marijuana and how it affects their business.
The Ocean County Prosecutor's Office is joining forces with PDFNJ to provide free opioid prescribing education to health care providers in the county.
Local businesses have teamed up with the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office and PDFNJ in an effort to raise awareness about New Jersey’s opioid epidemic.
PDFNJ & NJ CARES, which is responsible for overseeing addiction-fighting efforts across the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, have renewed their partnership to host the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series in 2022.
The opioid epidemic has hurt every community in New Jersey. As we continue to address this issue, it is important to consider the impact of race in how different communities are affected, and assure that all communities have access to the education and resources to prevent and treat addiction among their residents.
"It is time to consider opioid alternatives." That is the message Old Bridge officials are hoping to get across to as many people as possible. And what better way than the message on a digital billboard along the busy Route 9 corridor.
About 71% of New Jerseyans who have been prescribed an opioid in the past two years recall their doctors discussing the potential risks, according to a recent Fairleigh Dickinson University poll with support from The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
PDFNJ and New Jersey Attorney General's Office to host upcoming webinar focusing on race and the opioid epidemic.It will examine the role race has played in the statewide and national opioid epidemic in the year’s final installment of the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series.
The collaboration officially kicked off December 1st with the unveiling of a billboard featuring a message about the risks of prescription opioids and the need to consider non-opioid alternatives. The billboard is just the first step in Old Bridge’s efforts to educate their community and save lives from the opioid crisis. Local businesses have committed to placing posters in store windows to help spread the message and raise awareness in the community.
Most New Jerseyans (71 percent) who had been prescribed an opioid in the past two years recall their doctor discussing the potential risks of the medication with them, according to a recent statewide survey from the Fairleigh Dickinson University Poll, along with support from PDFNJ.
New Jersey might have been an outlier when the United States surpassed 100,000 drug overdose deaths last year, but the Garden State is now on a path toward its own somber milestone in a decade-long epidemic.
PDFNJ Chair, Elaine Pozycki, writes that the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased stress caused by isolation and financial pressures and more difficulty getting treatment, has resulted to an acceleration of the opioid epidemic, leading to more new cases of Opioid Use Disorder and to a stepped-up number of relapses.
While a rise in overdose deaths shows the devastating consequences of the opioid’s spread, less is understood about how the drug has proliferated.
The next Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series examines best practices for treating pain without opioids following surgery. The webinar is presented by PDFNJ and the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator of Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (NJ CARES). The event is being held in collaboration with the Opioid Education Foundation of America.
Communities across the state will participate in the 13th Annual American Medicine Chest Challenge – New Jersey (AMCC-NJ) Day of Awareness of Prescription Drug Abuse and Safe Disposal.
PDFNJ is teaming up with pharmacies throughout the state to help educate New Jersey residents on the risks of prescription opioids and to raise awareness of safe disposal through the American Medicine Chest Challenge New Jersey (AMCC-NJ) National Day of Awareness on November 13.
PDFNJ and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey will work together once again to bring their Knock Out Opioid Abuse initiative to the residents of New Jersey, this time with a focus on the health of student-athletes in collaboration with the NJSIAA (New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association).
Join PDFNJ for the next Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series Webinar at 11 a.m. at 11 a.m. on October 28 that will examine New Jersey’s efforts during the past year to provide support to victims of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey received 12 awards at the 2021 NJ Ad Club Jersey Awards Ceremony held on September 29.
Dr. Jamie Mells, Lieutenant Commander of the U.S. Public Health Service’s Division of Overdose Prevention with the CDC to headline Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Learning Series Webinar on October 6.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) honors International Overdose Awareness Day, today, and remembers those who we lost to drug overdose by encouraging all New Jersey residents to get involved and help to raise awareness about the dangers of opioids as part of this year’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day.
With pharmaceutical companies settling lawsuits they are able to put the opioid crisis behind them, but families of the victims cannot.
Join PDFNJ at 11 a.m. on August 26 for the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day Training Webinar. Learn more about Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day's virtual events, resources available to share with your community, and strategies to help spread awareness of the opioid epidemic.
PDFNJ's Executive Director, Angelo Valente spoke to New Jersey's 101.5 about the importance of talking to today's young people about the dangers of getting involved with drugs and alcohol, and that you should not wait until the teen years to have these important conversations.
New Jersey has been at a stable level [of opioid-related overdose deaths] now. Of course, that level is too high. You know one life is too many to lose.
MILLBURN—The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is launching #FamilyDayNJ, a summer-long promotion encouraging quality family time and togetherness to foster bonding and communication.
MILLBURN, NJ — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) received two awards at the 2021 National Association of Government Communicators Blue Pencil & Gold Screen Awards Ceremony held virtually on May 26.
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we share with you the passing of Joseph J.P. Miele, the Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
MILLBURN, N.J. — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s effort to educate on the risks of opioids and safe and responsible prescribing has now reached 1,000 professionals in the health care field and has potentially benefitted millions of New Jersey residents.
Kyran James Killian, 74, of Vineland, passed away on May 5, 2021 surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor him by following his example of living life to the fullest.
Michael McCabe from James A. McDivitt School in Old Bridge, Middlesex County, and Nathan Tenev from St. Mary’s School in Vineland, Cumberland County, were selected as co-winners of the contest. Their designs will be featured on the 40,000 folders distributed to fourth grade classrooms throughout the state this fall.
Congratulations Samantha Yannarelli of Mater Dei Prep! She is the first place winner of the 2021 Your Song! Your Voice! Shout Down Drugs New Jersey music competition. Visit shoutdowndrugs.com and listen to Samantha's winning song as well as the other great performances!
Senator Vitale has been a legislative leader in New Jersey’s fight against the opioid epidemic. He authored and played a key role in the passage of the state’s Patient Notification Act in 2017, which required prescribers to discuss with patients the addictive qualities of opioids and possible alternatives that exist to treat pain prior to prescribing an opioid. That law has served as a model for similar laws passed by 18 other states, as well as the Opioid Patients’ Right to Know Act.
MILLBURN, N.J. — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is showcasing its award-winning Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day initiative this week at the Rx Drug Abuse & Heroin Summit this week, which is being held virtually after kicking off Monday.
Angelo Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, noted "conclusive research" is lacking on the true impact of marijuana use on the developing brain.
TRENTON, New Jersey -- Legislation to set up a recreational marijuana marketplace, decriminalize cannabis and loosen penalties for underage possession of the drug and alcohol was signed into law Monday by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, more than three months after voters overwhelmingly approved a ballot question to legalize adult use of the drug.
WASHINGTON — U.S. Representative David Trone (D-Md.), along with Reps. Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.), Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-N.M.), and David McKinley (R-W.V.), has introduced the bipartisan Opioid Patients’ Right to Know Act to help prevent opioid addiction across the country that is based on the success of the New Jersey Patient Notification Act.
Over 81,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in the 12 months ending in May 2020, the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in a 12-month period, according to recent provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Addiction support groups including Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are exempt from New Jersey’s recently enacted 10-person limit for indoor gatherings due to the coronavirus outbreak under a clarification included in a separate executive order signed Monday night by Gov. Phil Murphy.
MILLBURN - Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director, Angelo Valente, and Director of Opioid Response and Prevention, Angela Conover, presented at the 2020 New Jersey Education Association convention on behalf of the New Jersey Association of School Social Workers.
Millburn, NJ - “Purdue Pharma’s agreement to plead guilty to felony charges in part for illegally incentivizing doctors to prescribe more opioid-based pain relievers to patients, even-though the company knew full well how highly addictive these medicines are, underscores the importance of warning patients of the risks of addiction and discussing non-opioid pain relief alternatives."
MILLBURN, NJ — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) today announced the unveiling of a new public health campaign featured in Times Square that is reminding families to talk to their children and communicate about the two life-threatening public concerns – the COVID-19 pandemic and the opioid epidemic.
MILLBURN — Thousands of New Jersey residents will be coming together virtually to Knock Out Opioid Abuse on October 6, for the state’s 5th Annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) has unveiled a new media campaign raising awareness of how to keep families safe from two life-threatening public concerns facing all New Jerseyans – Covid-19 pandemic and the opioid epidemic.
Twenty-six-year-old Briana Schroeder is a mom. She's self-assured with a measured voice. She's a former high school athlete, an animal-lover, and a recovering heroin addict.
Despite widespread devastation caused by America's opioid epidemic, an investigation by NPR found that doctors and other health care providers still prescribe highly addictive pain medications at rates widely considered unsafe.
As we must continue to work on all fronts to defeat the COVID-19 pandemic, which has already taken more than 130,000 lives, we must redouble our efforts to curb our very own domestic pandemic, Opioid Use Disorder, which continues to take nearly 50,000 lives annually.
Bill Lillis, PDFNJ's Parent Education Coordinator took part in a panel discussion for the Recovery Center for Network Therapy (CNT) on Monday, June 22nd. Topics covered in the discussion included: why individuals suffering from substance use disorder are more susceptible to COVID-19, programs NJ residents can leverage to access treatment and law enforcement’s role in incentivizing people to treatment.
Drug overdose deaths in New Jersey have leaped 20% this year amid a pandemic that advocates fear has exacerbated drug abuse and made it harder for those with addictions to secure treatment.
Kids across New Jersey are living through history: a once-in-a-generation pandemic and a nationwide civil rights outcry. It can be a lot to handle for elementary and middle schoolers, so to help them understand and reflect on their place in history, The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey asked kids to write about the silver lining they’ve experienced in the last few months.
Suspected overdose submissions to the Office of National Drug Control Policy’s Overdose Data Mapping Application Program from January to April this year are up 16.6% vs. the same period in 2019, according to an ODMAP report.
MILLBURN, NJ — New Jersey children are finding some “silver linings” to the social distancing caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) Share Your Silver Linings campaign invited kindergarten through 8th grade students to share a story about a new healthy and positive family ritual, habit, activity or a healthy tip they have discovered while social distancing.
For the duration of the coronavirus crisis, doctors, dentists and other healthcare workers who prescribe opioids to patients with chronic pain may now have to prescribe an overdose-reversal drug alongside it. Announced Thursday by New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, the rule demands healthcare practitioners prescribe naloxone, commonly known by its brand name Narcan, to those regularly taking higher doses of opioids or combining opioids with benzodiazepines, which include anti-anxiety medications like Xanax.
MILLBURN — More than 3,400 fourth grade students from across New Jersey have showcased their artistic skills and entered the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) Design a Fourth Grade Folder contest this year. The talented winners were chosen out of 28 finalists who were showcased in a virtual award ceremony held on May 12th.
MILLBURN, NJ — As New Jersey, the nation and the world continue to face the difficulties and tragedy of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey continued the conversation on the national opioid crisis affecting millions of Americans.
Millburn, NJ — A new study has found that the Patient Notification Act, a New Jersey law that requires medical practitioners to discuss the addictive potential of opioid-based painkillers with their patients (and parents of minors), and to also discuss a safer non-opioid alternative when available, is having a profound impact on the fight against the opioid epidemic.
MILLBURN, NJ — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is announcing a new campaign aimed at sharing positive stories or “silver linings” New Jersey students have discovered during this time of social distancing.
Listen to Shannon's winning song
Voting is underway for the New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music contest sponsored by 95.9 WRAT and the New Jersey Broadcasters Association. Go to ShoutDownDrugs.com and cast your vote for your favorite songs written and performed by teens across New Jersey who want to share their music and drug-free prevention messages.
MILLBURN, NJ - During these trying times, The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) plans to offer ideas and tips through a new social media campaign entitled, the PDFNJ Tip of the Day. The Tips to be unveiled on March 23, will provide inspiration to families and children through different tips and activities to do in inside during the Coronavirus pandemic. A new tip to be posted each day.
As fear, anxiety and stress overtake our bodies, minds and hearts during this coronavirus pandemic, there is a concern that many may turn to alcohol and drugs for comfort. Angelo Valente, executive director for A Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, says there is no question that stress from COVID-19 can put people at risk for substance abuse — especially young people.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey extends to you and your family our best wishes for continued good health. Please follow all of the guidelines and new rules that have been announced to stop the spread of the coronavirus. In response to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, PDFNJ has begun to cancel, postpone or make accommodations for all live, in-person group events that are currently planned.
Children as young as 11-years-old admitted to vaping last year. New Jersey Hospital Association data shows that’s two years younger than the year before. Now, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is piloting an education program to help kids avoid substance abuse. But is third grade too early to start the program?
Union City, NJ— The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and the PSEG Foundation have collaborated to send a message to 25,000 young New Jersey students across the state on the importance of healthy choices through the annual Third Grade Life Choices Coloring and Activity Book.
PDFNJ's Executive Director, Angelo Valente, sat down with Think Tank's Steve Adubato to talk about educating communities about the opioid epidemic and the importance of educating student athletes about the dangers and early signs of addiction.
MILLBURN - Thousands of New Jersey residents have benefited from their medical professionals’ increased awareness of the risks posed by prescription opioids, thanks to an opioid webinar launched by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (BCBSNJ).
Data collected by the Drug Enforcement Administration shows more than 100 billion doses of oxycodone and hydrocodone were shipped nationwide between 2006 and 2014, The Washington Post reports.
Teens around New Jersey are going back to school and being warned against the dangers of vaping with a new campaign sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the office of the state Attorney General.
MILLBURN — There’s nothing safe about vaping. That’s the message the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) will be sharing with youth as they return from holiday break this week. PDFNJ, in collaboration with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, has unveiled a media campaign about the dangers of vaping that will be distributed to each of the more than 3,500 schools in the state.
The road to Paul Little’s addiction began during a hard day at work. He took one pill to ease a headache, which turned into nine-month habit. “I got up to 20 to 30 Percocets a day,” the former Air Force doctor said. “I was eating them like M&Ms.” Kathy Thomas took opioids for two years until a doctor told her she was being unnecessarily medicated. She still lives with the psychological consequences.
MILLBURN — On November 9, communities across the state will participate in the 11th Annual American Medicine Chest Challenge – New Jersey (AMCC-NJ) Day of Awareness of Prescription Drug Abuse and Safe Disposal, a public health initiative created by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) to help raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse and empower families to safeguard their home through the 5-step challenge.
PDFNJ and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey held a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall in Somerset Hills on Tuesday, October 22. From left, Angelo Valente, Executive Director - PDFNJ; Somerset County Prosecutor Michael Robertson; Amanda Carroll, a Bernardsville resident in long-term recovery; Dr. Gail, Granowtiz, MD, Anesthesiologist; Chris Barton, Clinical Design Liason, Behavioral Health, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ; Jodi D’Agostini, Founder and Board Chair of Community in Crisis; Katie Meyler, a Bernardsville resident; and Father Rick Morley of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.
CAMDEN — Local experts on the opioid epidemic ravaging New Jersey addressed its impact on Camden and discussed solutions with its residents at a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
Toms River Mayor Thomas F. Kelaher, left, joins Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer; Heather Price, Volunteer Coordinator for Hope Sheds Light, Susan S. Jones, Reverend of Holy Cross Lutheran Church; and Beverly Prima, Hope Sheds Light during a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall. (Photo by Bob Vosseller)
PDFNJ and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey held a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall in Flemington on Wednesday, October 9. From left, Hunterdon County Prosecutor Michael Willians; Dr. Nimish Mehta, Hunterdon Medical Center; Nava Bastola, Public Health Analyst, NY/NJ High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program (HIDTA); Lesley Gabel, Co-Director, CEO, Prevention Resources; Divya Paliwal, MD, Chief Clinical Transformation Office, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey; Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ; Dr. Jeffrey Moore, Superintendent, Hunterdon Central Regional High School; and Heather Ogden, Advocacy Coordinator, NCADD – NJ; Greg Rearick, Supervisor, Hunterdon Opioid Overdose Recovery Program.
PDFNJ and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey held a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall in Cape May on Friday, October 4. From left, Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ; Ray Lucas, former Rutgers and NFL quarterback; Greg Vetrone, Rutger’s men’s basketball Director of Player Development; and John J. Hoffman, Rutgers University Senior Vice President and General Counsel.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey attended the Rutgers football game on October 5th to help educate athletes and Rutgers football fans about the dangers of opioids and to distribute materials for #KnockOutOpioidAbuse Day in New Jersey!
NEW JERSEY—New Jersey residents spread awareness and prevention information regarding the opioid crisis on October 6, a day Governor Phil Murphy recently commemorated as Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day in New Jersey.
The Partnership for Drug-Free New Jersey and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield New Jersey, an underwriter of NJTV News, is traveling across the state to host Knock Out Opioid Abuse town hall events. Friday they were at the Rutgers University Athletic Center sharing personal stories.
CAPE MAY — Local experts on the opioid epidemic ravaging New Jersey addressed its impact on Cape May and discussed solutions with its residents at a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo M. Valente spoke at the first Organization of American States (OAS) meeting to address substance use in Washington D.C. on September 30 about the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey's strategies to spread awareness about substance use, misuse and abuse.
TOMS RIVER - From left, Mayor Thomas F. Kelaher; Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer; Heather Price, Volunteeer Coordinator for Hope Sheds Light and Person in Long-Term Recovery; Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ; Susan S. Jones, Reverand of Holy Cross Lutheran Church; and Beverly Prima, Hope Sheds Light.
NEW YORK — A powerful new message in Times Square from the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey emphasizes the dangers of prescription opioids.
MILLBURN — Eradicating the stigma of addiction was the goal of hundreds of participants in the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s #SquashTheStigma initiative.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey announced five winners for its Fifth Annual Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Online NJ Family Fishing Tournament. Carl Cocozza and Vince Miranda of Atlantic County, Mike Mezak of Bergen County, Tim McHugh of Gloucester County, and Stephanie Osborne of Morris County were randomly selected as the winners of the competition. Each winner will receive a $100 gift card.
PDFNJ’s online Squash the Stigma challenge, beginning August 1 and concluding on International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, calls family and friends who have been impacted by to take a public stand against stigma.
Drug overdose deaths in the Garden State have been steadily rising for years but finally there is some good news to report. For the first six months of 2019, the number of fatal overdoses was down 7% compared to the same timeframe in 2018.
New Jersey’s Supreme Court announced Tuesday it will consider whether or not a Ridgewood funeral home discriminated against one of its employees in 2016 for using medical cannabis.
MILLBURN -- Governor Phil Murphy officially made Oct. 6 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day. Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day is a statewide project created by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey in cooperation with the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Addiction Services; and the Community Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Morris, with help from partners across the state.
A pair of organizations team up to educate drug prescribers about limiting unnecessary opioid use
Drug experts are now warning of a dangerous new health problem involving medications like Valium and Xanax that are typically prescribed for anxiety and insomnia.
No prescription needed. No insurance required. Find out what pharmacies are participating by following the read more link.
Matt Birchenough, PDFNJ Dir. of Special Events, discusses NJ's free naloxone program with News12.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) received six awards, including three first-place awards, at the NJ Ad Club’s 51st Annual Jersey Awards on June 5.
MILLBURN — In response to the opioid epidemic ravaging New Jersey, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ) have turned their focus toward educating prescribers on safe and responsible prescribing.
ATLANTIC CITY --- New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal announced his office has filed a lawsuit against eight members of the Sackler family, founders of Purdue Pharma, at an opioid conference hosted by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey on Thursday.
NJ Attorney General Grewal will discuss statewide initiatives to address the ongoing opioid epidemic and emphasize the role of law enforcement in combating this critical issue at the New Jersey Law Enforcement Training: On the Front Lines of the Opioid Epidemic.
MILLBURN — Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente earned recognition as one of the top figures in the health care field this week after NJBIZ selected him for its 2019 Health Care Power 50 list.
PDFNJ held its 15th Annual New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert on Friday, May 10 at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. From left, WCTC Radio Host and Prevention Concert master of ceremonies Bert Baron, second-place winner Jermaine Bethea, first-place winner Tiffany Enemuo, third-place winner Carolina Rial and PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente.
Ava Wittreich of Washington School in Bergenfield and Alysa Patel of Public School 27 in Jersey City were selected as co-winners of the Design a Fourth Grade Folder contest. Their designs will appear on the folder distributed annually to thousands of fourth graders throughout the state.
PDFNJ and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey held a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall in Galloway on May 7th. From left, Jennifer Goudy, Senior Program Officer, The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey; Dr. Brian Acunto; Galloway Police Chief Donna Higbee; Galloway Ambulance Chief Chuck Uhl; Laurie Smith of Join Together Atlantic County; Scott Gras, Peer Recovery Specialist with the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office; Reverend Mike Walker of Highland Community Church; PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo Valente; and Galloway Mayor Anthony Coppola Jr.
JERSEY CITY — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) honored Dr. Andrew Kolodny with the Angel of Hope Award for his efforts in the fight against the nationwide opioid epidemic at the Angel of Hope Gala, held Thursday at the Harborside Atrium.
The Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall examined the opioid epidemic’s effects on Robbinsville and actions to address the issue. From left, Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri, Dr. Neal Schofield, Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried, Roy Leitstein, PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente; Fred DiOrio, Dental Director of Government Programs for Horizon NJ Health; Marissa Esposito; and Reverend Edgar Shaffer.
The program is hosted by Eyewitness News Anchor Diana Williams and addresses the worst drug crisis in American history - the opioid crisis - which is truly a public health emergency.
Positive test results among active employees is a cause for concern among employers. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey moderates a NJBIZ panel discusssion on a wide range of issues, including current testing policies.
The Knock Out Opioid Abuse Summit, in partnership with the The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, looks at the Federal and State responses to the Opioid Epidemic.
ANDOVER — New Jersey businesses concerned about establishing and maintaining a drug-free working environment are invited to attend a free statewide seminar Tuesday, April 9 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Perona Farms in Andover.
NEWARK — After conducting more than two dozen town halls statewide to better understand the scope and impact of New Jersey’s opioid epidemic, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon BCBSNJ) will kick off a new round of town halls, with a fresh focus on customizing solutions to individual communities and leveraging local resources to combat the problem.
PDFNJ's Angela Conover and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey's Dr. Steven Peskin speak with Bert Baron about the upcoming March 27 Knock Out Opioid Abuse Summit in Newark.
A drug manufacturer denounces his own industry and explains to 60 Minutes how a label change by the FDA expanded the use of opioids
Elaine Pozycki, who lost her son to opioid addiction, addresses a group of doctors at Holy Name Medical Center and asks them to consider opioid alternatives.
Join us at The Newark Museum on March 27 for the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Summit on the State and Federal Response to the Opioid Epidemic. Representatives from the state and federal governments will discuss the impact of the opioid crisis and resources available for communities to help address the epidemic.
TRENTON – Acting to address the increased risk of opioid abuse among high school athletes, the Office of the New Jersey Coordinator for Addiction Responses and Enforcement Strategies (“NJ CARES”) and the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (“NJSIAA”) announced on Tuesday Feb. 19, a new partnership to educate student athletes on addiction risks associated with sports injuries and opioid use.
NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) -- The driver of a school bus carrying children with special needs was revived with the narcotic overdose drug Narcan after crashing in New Jersey Wednesday, according to authorities.
The Food and Drug Administration, drug companies and doctors mishandled distribution of a powerful fentanyl painkiller, allowing widespread prescribing to ineligible patients despite special measures designed to safeguard its use, according to a report released Tuesday.
Trenton, February 19, 2019 – Today the New Jersey Realtors, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey (HINJ), Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey launched a campaign to educate Realtors and homeowners with an active listing, along with the general public, about the importance of securing medicines in their homes and properly disposing of unused drugs that are no longer needed.
A 13-year-old student in Bergen County has been charged after giving his classmates edible marijuana gummy bears during school hours after one of his fellow students became ill and had to be taken to the hospital, police said.
PDFNJ's Angelo Valente and 2017 winner of the NJ Shout Down Drugs competition, Taylor Van Cleave, spoke with Fox5's Ernie Anastos.
2019 Miss America Nia Franklin and PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente, along with the 2017 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs winner Taylor Van Cleave, take a moment to pose for a photo at the Fox5 studios in NYC.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo M. Valente spoke with reporter Leah Mishkin of NJTV about Safer Prescribing Practices for Pediatric Dentists as part of the Do No Harm series. Click the read more to watch.
Watch the 3rd Grade Healthy Lifestyle Activity Book Campaign, Supported by the PSEG Foundation on NJTV News' Garden State Express.
Watch "New Jersey Now" discussing the New Jersey opioid epidemic with PDFNJ Ex. Dir., Angelo M. Valente.
Maria Spina from the PSEG Foundation, Arianna and Anthony Calamusa, 3rd Graders from the McGinn Elementary School, and Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership of a Drug-Free New Jersey
Experts say opioids are sometimes warranted for kids, in cases like severe burns or major trauma. But doctors should prescribe carefully, and parents should never keep leftovers in the house.
MILLBURN — In response to the crisis that has claimed thousands of New Jersey residents in the past four years alone, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) has launched a media campaign to make families aware of the fentanyl outbreak in New Jersey communities.
More than half of the 3,100 overdose deaths in New Jersey in 2018 involved the opioid pain reliever fentanyl. Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, Executive Director Angelo Valente talks with WCBS Newsradio 880 about the increase in deaths and the launch of a fentanyl media campaign to combat this issue.
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership for Drug Free New Jersey, about Knock Out Opioid Abuse and Shout Down Drugs.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) will present its Angel of Hope Award to Dr. Andrew Kolodny in recognition of his efforts to help solve the nation’s opioid crisis at a gala celebration on April 11, 2019, at the Harborside Atrium in Jersey City.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente spoke with Inside Edition about a recent study finding that 6 percent of teens and young adults who were prescribed opioids by a dentist were diagnosed with opioid abuse within a year.
Dentists who prescribe opioid painkillers to teenagers and young adults after pulling their wisdom teeth may be putting their patients at risk of addiction, a new study finds.
Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the aerosol, often referred to as vapor, produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. It’s become more popular among teens than regular cigarettes, especially given that vaping devices can be used for anything from flavors like mango, mint or tutti frutti, to flavorings containing nicotine or THC, the chemical compound in marijuana that produces the high.
Methamphetamine use is on the rise, especially in southern parts of the Garden State.
Still, drugs — namely opioids such as heroin — continue to be a considerable cause of fatalities. And synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl, are a growing problem: The rate of overdose deaths involving these drugs rose by 45% from 2016 to 2017.
NEW YORK – November 28, 2018 – Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to helping families struggling with their son’s or daughter’s substance use, today is launching an essential resource guide for parents and caregivers, “Vaping: What You Need to Know And How to Talk With Your Kids.”
MILLBURN — New Jersey parents are becoming more aware of the risks of prescription opioids and their link to heroin use, according to a study by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente, far right, was inducted into the Advertising Hall of Fame of New Jersey on November 8 at the Highlawn Pavilion in West Orange. As executive director since PDFNJ’s inception in 1992, Valente has spearheaded a number of unique substance use prevention public service campaigns that have been spread throughout the state and the nation. Valente was joined by fellow inductees, from left, Barry Schiro, Donna Bonavita, Larry Durst and Collette Liantonio.
The state of New Jersey has filed a five-count lawsuit against Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, for deceiving consumers about the dangers of two of its opioid products with high potential for abuse – Nucynta and Nucynta ER, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal said Tuesday.
The CarePoint Foundation honored Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente with the Daniel A. Kane Memorial Community Service Award at the CarePoint Foundation Gala at Saint Peter's University on Thursday, October 25.
PDFNJ Co-Chair Elaine Pozycki has been a leader in the nationwide effort to pass legislation requiring doctors and other health care providers to inform their patients about the risks of opioids before prescribing them. She joined Steppin’ Out Radio recently to discuss her son’s battle with addiction and her efforts to bring the Patient Notification Act to every state in the country.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, to Be Honored
NEW JERSEY — A new special that premiered Thursday night on NJTV spotlighted the significance of the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall Series in addressing New Jersey’s ongoing opioid crisis.
While the number of opioid prescriptions is down, the number of deaths continues to rise.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente joined the Health and Wellness Coalition at Pompton Lakes High School in Passaic County to deliver the message of Knock Out Opioid Abuse throughout the community.
TRENTON — The New Jersey State Legislature reaffirmed its commitment to fighting the opioid epidemic and its support for the efforts of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey by proclaiming October 6 as Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day in the state.
FLORHAM PARK — PDFNJ hosted a breakfast to address the legislative response to NJ’s opioid epidemic Monday morning in Florham Park. From left, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon; Bianca Madzarova, projects specialist for the office of United States Senator Cory Booker; PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente; Barbara Kauffman, Director of Prevention Services at Morris County Prevention is Key; Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco; and Assemblyman Kevin J. Rooney.
NEW JERSEY — In the coming weeks, student athletes, coaches and administrators from high schools throughout the state will help to spread vital messages about the risks of prescription opioids and their link to heroin use as part of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s third annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente will be one of five new members of the Advertising Hall of Fame of New Jersey inducted in 2018, the NJ Ad Club announced Tuesday.
NEW JERSEY — Volunteers throughout the state will unite to combat the deadly opioid crisis on Saturday, Oct. 6, by delivering vital information in their communities on the dangers of prescription opioids and their link to heroin use on the third annual Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day.
Angela Conover discusses naloxone in NJ high schools.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey announced six winners today for its fourth annual Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Online NJ Family Fishing Tournament.
[VIDEO] PDFNJ Ex. Director Angelo Valente Goes ‘One-on-One’ with Steve Adubato to Discuss the Opioid Crisis
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is asking families to cast their lines and reel in some quality time this summer as part of the fourth annual Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Online NJ Family Fishing Tournament.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Co-Chair Elaine Pozycki received a resolution from the New Jersey State Senate for her leadership in addressing the opioid crisis. From left, Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, Senator Joseph Vitale, Caroline Pozycki, Caroline Pozycki Torres, Elaine Pozycki, Harry Pozycki, PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente and Senate President Stephen Sweeney.
CAPE CORAL, Fla. — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) earned national acclaim for its New Jersey Shout Down Drugs high school music competition last week at the National Association of Government Communicators’ (NAGC) 2018 Blue Pencil & Gold Screen Awards.
TRENTON — The New Jersey Senate will be honoring Elaine Pozycki for her leadership in addressing New Jersey’s opioid epidemic by presenting a resolution at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 21, at the Statehouse.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente and Media Coordinator Matt Birchenough display the Partnership’s five trophies won at the 50th Annual Jersey
BOSTON – The Do No Harm Symposium Series, a prescriber education program organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – New Jersey Division, is being showcased among the programs showcased at the 2018 International Conference on Opioids that began Sunday and will run through Tuesday at Harvard Medical School.
The White House invited the Partnership and St. Francis Academy in Union City to attend a Sports and Fitness Day. PDFNJ collaborated with St. Francis Academy in Union City to select New Jersey students to accompany the Partnership at the event.
An expert panel that included, from left, Barrett Young, Dr. Stuart Roe, Barbara Sprechman, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Dr. Rachael Evans and Mercer County Prosecutor Angelo Onofri provided a comprehensive view of the opioid epidemic and its impact on Mercer County at Wednesday night’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall, sponsored by PDFNJ and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey hosted the 19th event in the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall Series in Essex County on Tuesday. Panelists included, from left, Dr. Lewis S. Nelson, Essex County Assistant Prosecutor Michele Miller, Barbara Kauffman, Mariel Hufnagel, Nicholas Beam and Dr. Janet Philips.
LITTLE EGG HARBOR TWP. — Ocean County experts addressed the ongoing opioid crisis at a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall on Thursday at Calvary Baptist Church in Little Egg Harbor. From left, Michael Capko, Pastor Mike Dellaperute, Liza DeJesus, Dr. Muhammad Abbas and Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph Coronato.
MAYS LANDING — More than 75 small business owners, employers and other New Jersey residents received an in-depth look into the issues affecting the establishment and maintenance of drug-free workplaces at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s annual Legal Issues of a Drug-Free Workplace Statewide Seminar on Wednesday morning.
Hunterdon County experts led a discussion on the opioid epidemic and its impact on Hunterdon County at a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. From left, 1450 WCTC AM radio host Bert Baron, Hunterdon County Executive Assistant Prosecutor Michael Sweeney, Christine Cochrane of Hunterdon Medical Center, State Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman, Lesley Gabel of Prevention Resources, Karen Widico of Prevention Resources and Frank Lovell III from Freedom House.
POINT PLEASANT BEACH — More than 4,000 fourth grade students from across New Jersey drew their idea of a fun time as part of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Design a Fourth Grade Folder contest this year, but just two will have their designs appear on the folder distributed annually to thousands of fourth graders throughout the state.
PDFNJ and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey held a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall in Passaic County on Thursday at the Hawthorne Gospel Church. The expert panel of speakers featured, from left, Alton Robinson, Tim Stanley, Dr. William Kernan, Dr. Steve Aydin, Dr. Adelaide Viguri and Passaic County Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes.
MENDHAM — Students from across New Jersey united Friday night to deliver a stirring collection of musical substance use prevention messages at the 14th Annual New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert held at Daytop New Jersey by PDFNJ. Maria Chung, a student at Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan in Bergen County, won first place for her original song, “You Could Have Done Better.”
JERSEY CITY — A group of Hudson County and national experts on the opioid epidemic provided a comprehensive view of the deadly epidemic for an audience of hundreds of county residents who attended Tuesday’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall, organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
DENNIS TWP. — A group of Cape May County residents engaged in dialogue with experts, who advocated for a diverse and coordinated response to help find solutions to the statewide opioid crisis at a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall held Thursday morning, sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
PDFNJ and the PSEG Foundation delivered the Third Grade Contract for a Healthy Life to students at Yantacaw School in Nutley on Tuesday, April 10. From left, John Latka, Senior Vice President of Electric and Gas Operations for PSE&G; Yantacaw School Principal Frank Francia; Maria Spina, Program Officer for the PSEG Foundation; Angelo Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ; and school nurse Katherine Flannery.
MILLBURN – The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) will focus on substance use in the workplace next month at its annual Legal Issues of a Drug-Free Workplace Statewide Seminar.
MILLBURN – The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) has launched a new media campaign highlighting the emotional pain associated with addiction and has received help spreading that message from the advertising community.
OLD BRIDGE – The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ), with critical support from The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, has once again ensured that thousands of New Jersey parents will be well-equipped to speak with the children about substance use.
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership For A Drug-Free New Jersey, about Shout Down Drugs, Middle school PSA, and Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall Series.
“The CDC report released today is yet another indicator that the opioid epidemic is still raging in communities throughout the country,” PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo Valente said. “No person or community, regardless of gender, race, economic standing or any other factor, is immune to this crisis.”
MILLBURN — New Jersey students representing 13 counties have been chosen as finalists in the 2018 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music competition organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
ELIZABETH, N.J. – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee that sets national health policy, today toured a local recovery center in Elizabeth, where he met with experts and individuals in recovery, and discussed additional federal resources available to help New Jersey combat the growing opioid epidemic.
MOUNT LAUREL — More than 100 New Jersey residents directly affected by the ongoing opioid crisis discussed the crisis with experts Wednesday morning at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Third Annual Breakfast for Families and Communities Impacted by Opioid Abuse.
HAMILTON — A group of six Hamilton Township middle school students will soon be seen on televisions across New Jersey delivering a strong message on the importance of substance use prevention as part of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) annual statewide Middle School Public Service Announcement (PSA) Challenge.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente spoke with CBS 2 – New York about legislation adopted in New Jersey last year limiting initial opioid prescriptions to a five-day supply.
PDFNJ Co-Chair Elaine Pozycki and Ex. Dir. Angelo M. Valente discussed the opioid crisis last week on the “Rod Arquette Show” on 105.9 KNRS in Salt Lake City. They discussed legislation adopted last year in New Jersey that requires prescribers to discuss with their patients the addictive nature of opioid painkillers and possible alternatives to opioids before prescribing them.
[Last] Wednesday, CBS2’s Ali Bauman had the opportunity to sit down with them [women in recovery] and find out why they’re speaking so openly and freely about their fight with addiction.
MILLBURN — Nearly half of New Jersey residents who participated in a recent survey report little or no concern about the potential dangers of prescription pain medication to themselves or a family member, according to the study released today by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
MILLBURN — New Jersey high school students are invited to share their musical drug prevention messages as part of the 2018 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music competition, organized by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
MILLBURN — Media messages motivate New Jersey residents to take action steps to prevent opioid abuse in their homes and communities, according to a study recently released by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
Hundreds of Middlesex County residents arrived in East Brunswick on Tuesday night to discuss the opioid crisis affecting New Jersey. The expert panel, from left, included Middlesex County Prosecutor Andrew C. Carey; New Jersey State Senator Joseph Vitale (D ¬– Middlesex); Assemblywoman Nancy Pinkin (D – Middlesex); Vanessa Vitolo, outreach coordinator with Victory Bay Recovery Center; Bonnie Nolan, addiction services coordinator for Woodbridge Township; and moderator Bert Baron of 1450 WCTC.
On Tuesday night, a town hall meeting in Middlesex County brought residents together to talk and work towards lowering that number to zero.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey held its 12th Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall on Tuesday in Union County. The expert panel featured, from left, Alton Robinson, Mariel Hufnagel, Pam Capaci, Sheriff Joseph Cryan, Acting Prosecutor Thomas K. Isenhour and Dr. Andrew Kaufman.
Dr. A. Omar Abubaker, a dentist and oral surgeon who lost his son, Adam, to a heroin overdose in 2014, addressed an audience of dentists and doctors on safer prescribing of opioids at Thursday's Do No Harm Symposium hosted by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey at JFK Medical Center.
Critics in the substance abuse treatment community Friday continued to find fault with Donald Trump’s approach to solving the nation’s opioid epidemic. The president declared a temporary public health emergency that included no extra federal funding. Trump promised treatment, but emphasized anti-drug education.
Medical professionals from New York and New Jersey were taking notes at a “Do No Harm” symposium and staring at the staggering statistics for overdose deaths in just the first half of 2016 compared to all of 2015.
Burlington County residents and other officials gathered at Rowan College at Burlington County in Mt. Laurel last week as part of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s latest stop in the statewide “Knock Out Opioid Abuse” town hall series.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente and State Assemblyman Kevin Rooney hand out #KnockOutOpioidAbuse wristbands to fans prior to the Don Bosco versus Bergen Catholic football game Friday night.
BERNARDSVILLE — Residents of Somerset County gathered at Bernards High School on Tuesday night to not only learn from experts but also to share their own knowledge and concerns about the opioid epidemic ravaging New Jersey at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall.
Nutley High School student-athletes sought Friday to help educate those at high risk for opioid abuse, including themselves.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente spoke with Bert Baron of 1450 WCTC about the importance of Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day. Today, volunteers around the state will be spreading critical information on the risks of prescription opioids and their link to heroin abuse. Valente also spoke about the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall Series, which will be moving to Somerset County on October 10.
The statewide single-day initiative will mobilize the prevention and treatment communities, community leaders and concerned citizens to raise awareness of the potential for dependency on prescribed pain medicine and its link to heroin abuse rates in our state. Teams of volunteerswill visit physician and dental offices, as well as homes in local communities, to distribute this vital information.
SEWELL — Residents of Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem counties gathered at Rowan College at Gloucester County to join the conversation on the opioid epidemic ravaging families and communities throughout the state at Wednesday night’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall held by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ).
ANDOVER TOWNSHIP -- The opioid epidemic is very real and very much in our own backyards. So what is being done about it? That was the question at the forefront Friday morning at The Center for Prevention and Counseling during the Knock Out Opioid Abuse town hall, a series presented by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
ANDOVER — A standing-room-only crowd of Sussex County residents packed The Center for Prevention & Counseling on Friday to join the conversation on the statewide opioid epidemic gripping New Jersey at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall.
HACKETTSTOWN — Dozens of medical professionals gathered at Hackettstown Regional Medical Center on Tuesday to learn what role they can play in stemming the current opioid crisis at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) Do No Harm Symposium.
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership For a Drug-Free New Jersey, about the Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall Series.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey announced six winners today in its third annual Don’t Get Hooked on Drugs Online NJ Family Fishing Tournament.
President Trump on Thursday declared the country’s opioid crisis a national emergency, saying the scourge exceeded anything he had seen with other drugs in his lifetime.
Online NJ Family Fishing Tournament - Over $600 in Cash Prizes! - August 4-13: Go fishing with your family in NJ. Take a photo of you and your child fishing for a chance to win. Like us on Facebook at PartnershipForADrugFreeNewJersey or follow us on Twitter @drugfreenj and Instagram at drugfreenj, then post the picture of your group and tag it with #drugfreenj
This special two part broadcast airing on Friday July 21st and repeated on Friday, August 18th, from 9 PM to 10 PM focuses on the critical problem facing America. These shows, part I will air the week of September 19th, part II the week of September 26, 2017 on CUNY TV, airing 8 times during the week.
The winners of the 2017 Middle School PSA Challenge are, from left, Alyssa Johnson, Matthew Valyo, Ashley Schoener, Regina Jannetto, Hannah Linkowsky and Meghan Krencicki from Grice Middle School in Hamilton Township.
MILLBURN — The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) earned five awards, including two first prizes, at the 49th Annual NJ Ad Club Jersey Awards held Wednesday, June 7.
Gov. Chris Christie addressed medical professionals Monday, June 12, at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Do No Harm symposium at Morristown Medical Center. The governor was joined on stage by Partnership Chair Elaine Pozycki and Executive Director Angelo Valente.
Former Gov. James Florio, left, pictured alongside Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente, received the Drugs Don’t Work in NJ! Founder’s Awards for his foresight and vision in establishing Drugs Don’t Work in NJ! to help New Jersey businesses at Wednesday’s annual Legal Issues of a Drug-Free Workplace Statewide Seminar held at Saint Peter’s University.
Governor James J. Florio will be presented with the Drugs Don’t Work in NJ! Founder’s Award for his foresight and vision in establishing Drugs Don’t Work in NJ as a resource for the New Jersey business community to be compassionate and competitive.
NEW BRUNSWICK – The musical substance abuse prevention messages of 21 high school students cascaded from the stage at Rutgers University’s Nicholas Music Center on Friday, May 19, at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s 13th Annual New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert.
MORRISTOWN, NJ —The Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall meeting drew a capacity crowd seeking to learn from a panel of experts and engage in a discussion about the opioid crisis. The event, sponsored the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, the Morris County Sheriff’s Office and the Community Coalition for a Safe & Healthy Morris, allowed Morris County residents to join the conversation surrounding the opioid epidemic.
The goal of the town hall is to help people understand addiction and help protect their families
PDFNJ Ex. Dir., Angelo M. Valente appeared on State of Affairs with Steve Adubato to discuss the opioid epidemic, PDFNJ's role in the fight against addiction, and the important collaboration PDFNJ has with Horizon Foundation of New Jersey to combat this crisis.
SAYREVILLE, N.J. — More than 6,000 fourth grade students from across New Jersey participated in the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Fourth Grade Folder contest, but just 30 earned their way to the award ceremony held May 3 at the Middlesex County Fire Academy.
TOMS RIVER — Governor Chris Christie praised the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) for its leadership in the state and country in the fight against the opioid crisis, during a press conference on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day being held Saturday, April 29.
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership For a Drug-Free New Jersey, about Town Hall Meetings in NJ addressing the opioid epidemic.
On June 4, Morris County Sheriff Gannon plans to open the Hope Wing at the Morris County correctional facility in Morris Township. A jail pod, or unit, with about 50 beds will be designated for eligible inmates who want to voluntarily use their time confined to start overcoming addiction
GALLOWAY — Atlantic County residents arrived at Stockton University on Monday to join the conversation on the opioid crisis facing the nation at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s first Knock Out Opioid Abuse Town Hall.
The gathering, organized by Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, was one in a series of events taking place statewide to fuel discussion about the skyrocketing rates of addiction and overdoses.
PENNS GROVE, N.J. - Opioid abuse is tragically a growing issue not only here in the Garden Sate, but across the entire country. In response to this epidemic, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey organization made its way to Salem County to educate nursing students on the staggering statistics that are growing each year.
Most American teenagers who abuse opioid drugs first received the drugs from a doctor, a new study finds.
MILLBURN --- Deciding when and how to talk to your kids about drugs can be a big decision. Thanks to the support of the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, for the 17th year, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is able to provide parents information on how and when to have those conversations.
New Jersey is aiming to attack the opioid problem at its source — the prescriber.
MAYS LANDING — Seeking guidance and help from a religious or faith-based leader is common for families and people impacted by addiction.
The new law limits the initial supply of pain pills that can be prescribed and aids people getting into addiction treatment
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership for a Drug-Free NJ, about Opioid Abuse Epidemic.
Completing a challenge issued to the legislature in his State of the State address last month and continuing his most aggressive, innovative campaign in the nation against drug addiction, Governor Christie signed into law today his life-saving healthcare reform that will guarantee insurance coverage for people to access immediate treatment and to limit initial opioid prescriptions.
Robert A. Marino, Chairman, President & CEO of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, and a member of PDFNJ’s Executive Committee, has authored a recent Star-Ledger editorial calling for the need for a comprehensive approach to address New Jersey’s opioid epidemic.
Six years after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared prescription drug overdoses “An American Epidemic,” the state Legislature is set to enact the strongest measures in the country to cut into the opioid and heroin crisis.
(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Joseph Lagana, Nancy Pinkin, Valerie Vainieri Huttle, Marlene Caride, Ralph Caputo and Benjie Wimberly enlisting the aid of healthcare providers in discussing the dangers of certain opioid medications prior to issuing a prescription to patients who are minors was signed into law on Monday.
Angelo M. Valente accepts his award for prevention from John Servidio, General Manager, NJTV at NJTV's Healthy NJ: New Jersey's Drug Addiction Crisis Everyday Heroes Award Celebration.
Anti-drug advocates hailed Gov. Chris Christie's pledge Tuesday to make New Jersey's addiction crisis a top job in the final year of his term in office, but there were worries about funding and follow through.
MILLBURN --- The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey applauds Governor Chris Christie for his announcement today during the 2017 State of the State address, highlighting the fact that the majority of heroin addicts first became addicted through the use of prescription opioids and four out of every five new heroin users got started by misusing prescription painkillers.
(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Joseph Lagana, Nancy Pinkin, Valerie Vainieri Huttle, Marlene Caride, Ralph Caputo and Benjie Wimberly enlisting the aid of healthcare providers in discussing the dangers of certain opioid medications prior to issuing a prescription to patients who are minors was approved, 77-0, by the full Assembly on Monday.
The state’s opioid addiction toll on young people is staggering. Last year 1,587 people died of overdoses. The Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse reported some 4,200 people under the age of 25 were admitted to substance abuse treatment programs in 2012.
(TRENTON) – An Assembly panel on Monday approved legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Joseph Lagana, Nancy Pinkin, Valerie Vainieri Huttle, Marlene Caride, Ralph Caputo and Benjie Wimberly enlisting the aid of healthcare providers in discussing the dangers of certain opioid medications prior to issuing a prescription to patients who are minors.
TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Joseph F. Vitale and Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg that would require certain health care professionals to complete continuing education credits on topics related to prescription opioids cleared the Senate today.
Mark Vitale, President of the New Jersey Dental Association (NJDA) and Angelo Valente, Executive Director, PDFNJ attend the Do No Harm symposium at Monmouth Medical Center to educate members of the dental community on the heroin and prescription drug abuse epidemic in New Jersey and develop solutions to stem the public health crisis.
Throughout New Jersey thousands of moms, dads, prevention and treatment professionals, students and concerned citizens are taking to the streets to raise awareness about the opiate abuse epidemic impacting our state.
Since 2014, New Jersey emergency officials have deployed opioid overdose reversal drug Narcan more than 18,000 times. It's the clearest indicator we have about how many overdoses have occurred in NJ.
...an investigation by STAT has found that Purdue Pharma, the manufacturer of OxyContin, thwarted the state’s plan by paying a middleman, known as a pharmacy benefits manager, to prevent insurers from limiting prescriptions of the drug.
PATERSON – Senator Raymond J. Lesniak (D-20), today, unveiled his plan to introduce legislation that is geared at reducing the number of New Jersey residents who become dependent on a prescribed opiate, at a press conference at Eva’s Village, Paterson.
MILLVILLE, N.J. – 2,000 volunteers across the state joined together on Thursday in hopes of knocking out the growing epidemic of opiate abuse. In Millville, the community and local police partnered with Drug-Free New Jersey to participate in Knock Out Opiate Abuse Day.
Dr. Balzani and Kathy Balzani, volunteers for Knock Out Opiate Abuse Day, along with Angelo Valente, Ex. Director of PDFNJ, present information on safe prescribing as part of Knock Out Opiate Abuse Day to Dr Robert Kayal, MD/FAAOS and Leon Colao of Kayal Orthopedic Center in Glen Rock, NJ.
An AMCC Medicine Dropbox was brought to the East Orange, New Jersey, community with the concerted efforts of Alexis Lobaina as her Girl Scouts Gold Award project. From left to right is Sgt. Yasmine Johnson, East Orange Police Dept. Community Relations; Alexis Lobaina; Chief Phyllis L. Bindi; and Joel Torres, ADAPT Senior Coordinator.
Volunteers working to lower the death toll from the heroin epidemic will pay doctors a visit Oct. 6, delivering a message about what federal authorities believe is the best way to attack the crisis.
Middlesex County Prosecutor Andrew C. Carey welcomed attendees to the Faith based Do No Harm Symposium held at the First Presbyterian Church of Woodbridge. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Do No Harm Symposium was geared for faith-based leaders who want to learn more about the opiate epidemic and how they can help prevent the spread and help support families of the addicted.
JERSEY CITY -- A prescription drug abuse and heroin prevention training session was held today at Saint Peter’s University, to educate community stakeholders, local law enforcement, and education officials on the ongoing efforts to educate New Jersey’s youth and young adults about the perils of heroin and prescription drug abuse.
At a NJ addiction forum, hosted by Senators Booker and Menendez in cooperation with Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called doctors and other healthcare providers “the first line of defense in the battle against addiction”.
Candace Kelley speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership for a Drug-Free NJ, about Knock Out Opiate Abuse Day. Follow us on Twitter: @drugfreenj and Facebook. Recorded on: 8/3/2016.
LIVINGSTON -- U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy, brought his Turn the Tide tour to New Jersey today, to discuss the current opiate abuse epidemic impacting the state, and discuss action steps physicians can take to stem the tide of the epidemic. The Surgeon General is currently on a national tour designed to educate and mobilize prescribers to take immediate action to end this epidemic.
With the leadership of New Jersey’s United States Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is pleased to invite you to join us as we welcome United States Surgeon General Vivek Murthy to New Jersey for a Forum on Addiction and Healing on August 8, 2016. Joined by Under Secretary for Health at the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, and moderated by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, Surgeon General Murthy, Senators Menendez and Booker, will address New Jersey’s Heroin and Opioid Abuse Crisis at this forum.
Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey’s representative, Chris Barton, accepts the Mental Health Association in New Jersey’s Spotlight on Excellence in Addiction Services Award from Carolyn Beauchamp, President and CEO of MHANJ, at the organizations recent annual Evening of Excellence Dinner.
Jill Horner of Comcast Newsmakers speaks with Angelo Valente, Ex. Dir. of PDFNJ, about the 2016 Parent Tracking Study
Over 25,000 3rd grade students received contracts from more than 1100 classrooms, while over 260 schools participated. Congratulations!
MILLBURN – As New Jersey battles an opioid abuse epidemic, a Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) study, released today, found that nearly one in three parents of New Jersey middle school students do not believe there is a link between painkillers prescribed for things like sports injuries and wisdom tooth removal and the rising use of heroin in New Jersey.
Physicians from across Hudson County and the state gathered at CarePoint Health's Hoboken University Medical Center on 6/10/16 to discuss what medical professionals can do to curtail this epidemic.
Executive Director Angelo M. Valente proudly holds the 1st place award given to PDFNJ.
All the performers and winning acts can now be heard in their entirety from the concert on 5/25/16!
HOBOKEN-- With New Jersey in the grips of an opioid abuse epidemic, physicians from across the county and state gathered at the CarePoint Health’s Hoboken University Medical Center for the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) Do No Harm Symposium, today, to discuss and develop solutions to stem this public health crisis.
Congratulations to our winners! From left to right: PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo Valente, 1st place finalists Juan Ferreria, Alexia Velaquez and Ayman Abdalla of AJani, second place finalist Michelle Greco,third place finalist Ricky Persaud Jr, and WCTC 1450AM on-air talent and host of the concert Bert Baron. #shoutdowndrugs
HOWELL, N.J. (CBSNewYork) — A new bill in New Jersey could help fight the national epidemic of prescription drug abuse.
With more and more New Jerseyans getting hooked on prescription painkillers and heroin, the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey is reaching out to the faith-based community for help. A drug awareness symposium held in Lawrence attracted several Central Jersey religious leaders on Thursday.
Sen. Joseph F. Vitale (D-19), Chairman of the Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee, was the honoree at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey's Angel of Hope Gala. Steve and Elaine Pozycki, gala chairs, presented Senator Vitale with the Angel of Hope award for his dedication to eliminating substance abuse in New Jersey.
Despite ongoing efforts to educate New Jersey parents about the dangers of prescription drug abuse, a new study finds many moms and dads remain completely in the dark.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir Angelo M. Valente joins Sens. Menendez and Booker in Bergenfield for the installation of an American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC) permanent prescription drug drop box. This event was held to raise awareness about the need to dispose of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine.
(NEWARK, NJ) – Over 6,000 fourth grade students from across New Jersey participated and 30 were selected as finalists and recognized at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) Design a Fourth Grade Folder Contest Award Ceremony on April 27, 2016.
These days, it’s not too hard to fill a room full of people when you tell them there’s an event to discuss opioid addiction. That’s because there are fewer and fewer lives that haven’t been touched by the epidemic. “We’re not going to solve this problem in isolation and we know that everyone together is the only way we’re going to be able to work toward solutions that could be very effective in our state,” said Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente.
Angelo Valente [center], along with Joel Pomales [right] Clinical Outreach Coordinator and Director of Advocacy With College Recovery, will be featured on Fox 5/Good Day Street Talk Saturday, April 2nd at 6am.
President Obama and PDFNJ both participated in the National Rx Summit held in Atlanta between March 28th and April 1st.
New York, NY – A national Public Service Campaign (PSA) "You Decide Before They Prescribe," geared at educating parents on the link between prescribed prescription pain medicine and heroin abuse and encouraging them to speak to their doctor regarding the addictive qualities of pain medicine and the possible alternatives. From left: Steven J. Pozycki, Founder, Chairman and CEO of SJP Properties, Elaine Pozycki, Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) Board of Trustees Co-Chair, and Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of PDFNJ
A heroin addiction can start in the most innocent of places, not under a bridge, but in the dentist’s chair or pediatrician’s office. As noted in H&HN’s previous coverage, there is an opioid epidemic raging across the U.S., killing thousands of Americans every day. Often, doctors are prescribing pain pills like oxycodone for sports injuries, kids end up getting hooked, and when the Rx dries up, they turn to street heroin that’s stronger, cheaper and easier to obtain.
New Jersey Shout Down Drugs challenges high school students to create original music and lyrics with powerful substance abuse prevention messages to allow teens to deliver the prevention message to each other through their favorite medium of music. County Finalists are chosen by peer judges to perform their original songs at the Annual Statewide Prevention Concert, held in May, at a state-of-the-art venue. First, second and third place winners are chosen by a panel of judges that night to receive music contracts worth $5,000, $3,000 and $2,000 respectively to perform their winning songs at different events throughout the state during the year
Before they were shooting heroin, they most likely were popping pills. A new national campaign is being rolled out Thursday to heighten awareness about the danger of opiate-based drug prescriptions, which officials say evolved into heroin abuse for young people. New Jersey is one of the states hardest hit by the heroin-addiction epidemic.
On May 5, 2016, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey will host its 25th Anniversary Angel of Hope Gala at the Pleasantdale Chateau, in West Orange, NJ. Join Elaine and Steve Pozycki, Gala Chairs, as we honor Senator Joseph Vitale for his legislative leadership in addressing the epidemic of opiate abuse.
Creating and maintaining a drug-free workplace is not always an easy task for business owners, managers and human resource professionals. On 3/23/16, a free networking seminar will take place which focuses on this very topic. Legal Issues of Creating and Maintaining a Drug-Free Workplace Environment will be held at the Hunterdon County Complex, Assembly Room, Building No. 1, 314 State Route 12, Flemington
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey says it holds meetings for doctors called Do No Harm. “What’s amazing is 90 percent of the physicians who attended these symposiums — doctors and dentists — 90 percent of them said they plan to change their prescribing habits,” said Executive Director Angelo Valente.
Angela Conover, Director of Media, Marketing & Community Relations Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Rebecca Alfaro, Deputy Executive Director Governor's Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse present a workshop entitled "Engaging Faith Based Leaders in Community Prevention Efforts" at the 26th annual CADCA Leadership Forum in National Harbor, MD.
Over 30,000 5th Grade Students participated in this program throughout the state. This initiative is designed to provide information on substance abuse trends and tips to prevent substance abuse to New Jersey parents of 5th grade students.
Jill Horner speaks with Angelo Valente, Executive Director from the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, about their Do No Harm Campaign and Drug Abuse
As we begin a new year, an old and all-too familiar problem continues to haunt many individuals and families – New Jersey’s heroin epidemic. Now we get word the drug is becoming increasingly available, this time in pill form.
A Boston Medical Center survey of 2,800 patients who had overdosed on opioids found 91 percent were still prescribed opioids, and many by the same doctor. Seven percent overdosed again.
Anti-drug advocates are warning parents about a new dangerous form of marijuana that has made its way to New Jersey. The potent version of the drug goes by many names, including “shatter,” “honey,” or “dab.” It is consumed by either smoking or inhaling with a vaporizer.
Experts are warning that Shatter is dangerous, for a variety of reasons. Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, said Shatter is five times more potent than regular pot, and it can easily ignite, because it’s made by combining marijuana and butane gas.
Twenty years ago, the drug company, Purdue Pharma, introduced a prescription opioid it advertised as safe. It was Oxycontin. Opioid prescriptions given to elementary and high school students have been linked to an increased risk in illegal drug use among young adults, and overdose deaths have reached record highs every year for the last 15 years. There’s mounting support for a bill that would require parents be notified of the dangers of opioids before their kids are dosed.
What would happen if everyone in N.J. addicted to heroin and opioids was sent to live in one place? It would be the state's fourth largest city, boasting a population of at least 128,000.
CBS 3 Philadelphia: Health officials say nearly two million Americans either abuse or depend upon prescription pain killers. Now some New Jersey lawmakers are calling on doctors to be more responsible.
THE SCOURGE of opiate addiction has been well-documented on the pages of The Record, and the too-typical pattern of addiction is well-known to many suburban parents throughout the state. A young person, often a teenager, is introduced to prescription opiate painkillers – either because of an injury or recreationally. The high from these painkillers is swift and addictive, and all too often a downward spiral ensues.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey held its Family Opiate Breakfast at the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe, for all those who have been affected by opiate abuse. At left, Steve Brosko, Anna Marie Van Eck, Kathleen Huber and Don Hebert (Photo by Tav Jinivizian)
Prescriber education, consumer education and advocacy are some of the goals discussed in the lecture.
PDFNJ takes great pride in sharing the announcement that was made today by President Barack Obama in the 2015 National Drug Control Strategy recognizing the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Do No Harm symposium series.
Ralph LaRossa, center, President and Chief Operating Officer of PSE&G, was presented a Resolution of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Board of Trustees by Executive Director Angelo Valente, left, on October 28, recognizing the many years of support of Mr. LaRossa and PSE&G to PDFNJ’s statewide substance abuse prevention initiatives. Joining them is John Latka, right, PSE&G Senior Vice President - Electric & Gas Operations, who was elected to the Board of Trustees in May, 2015.
MILLBURN, NJ – Hundreds of NJ families spent time together fishing in state rivers, lakes, bays and the Atlantic Ocean along the shore as part of an effort to motivate families to spend time with their children to prevent substance abuse. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey held the first "Don't Get Hooked on Drugs" Online New Jersey Family Fishing Tournament in August 2015.
Trenton: Angelo. M Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, and Stephen Trimboli, Esq., of Trimboli & Prusinowski, L.L.C., present a Drug’s Don’t Work in NJ! webinar for members of the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) on Legal Issues of Creating and Maintaining a Drug-Free Workplace Environment.
MORRISTOWN – Turning to a faith leader to help address substance abuse addiction in a loved one is often the first step for a family. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) coordinated a free training to provide resources and information to those Faith Based leaders.
New Jersey's heroin crisis is likely closer to you than you think. Much has been made of the deadly drug's crawl into suburbia, but it isn't until you take a closer look that this becomes completely clear.
Governor Chris Christie signed legislation, July 20, 2015, that expands the New Jersey Attorney General’s Division of Consumer Affairs Prescription Monitoring Program (NJPMP), an online database that tracks the prescription sale of drugs classified as controlled dangerous substances (CDS). The bill, S-1998, expands existing law by requiring that prescribers and pharmacists register for NJPMP access, and requiring that physicians consult the NJPMP.
Opioid addiction is a fast-growing threat both in New Jersey and across the country, with the toll of lives lost and families left bereft climbing daily. In 2014 alone, for example, there were 600 fatal heroin overdoses.
(FREEHOLD) Acting Monmouth County Prosecutor Christopher J. Gramiccioni, Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato, and Ex. Dir of PDFNJ Anglo M. Valente, announced a new partnership with all hospitals in their respective counties at a joint press conference Wednesday morning. Barnabas Health-affiliated hospitals, CentraState Medical Center and Meridian Health-affiliated hospitals have each stepped forward in the fight to stem the tide of the overdose epidemic by agreeing to replenish the overdose antidote naloxone for law enforcement officers free of charge.
The hottest designer drug to hit the underground market is a cousin of bath salts known as flakka. Placed on the U.S. list of illegal controlled substances in 2014, flakka’s popularity has surged, especially in Florida, where it arrives in droves from China through the mail. The drug has reportedly also shown up in Ohio, Texas and Illinois. Other states, such as New York, have issued warnings about it.
Gerry was an intricate and beloved member of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey family and his passion for the issue of substance abuse prevention, knowledge and historical perspective will be sorely missed by all.
(NEWARK, NJ) – Over 8,000 fourth grade students from across New Jersey participated in the fifteenth annual Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Design a Fourth Grade Folder Contest.
MORRISTOWN – Physicians in Morristown and neighboring counties had the opportunity to learn more about the prescription drug and heroin abuse epidemic in New Jersey, and the effect of the epidemic on our correction facilities.
The 2015 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Concert is available as a podcast. WCTC broadcast the concert on April 21, 2015 and is making it available to anyone who would like to listen.
WEST NEW YORK --- NJ leaders want families across the state to get cleaning this Sat., and participate in the first ever Rx Drug Spring Cleaning: Spring Clean Your Medicine Cabinet event. This public health initiative is designed to raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse, the need to safely dispose of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine, and the over 150 locations across the state that are equipped to accept disposed medicine.
NEWARK, NJ –Josiah Valerius, Millie Diaz, Carlos Duran, Hennesis Encarnacion and Janisse Lantigua members of the band Dominant Collective were named the first place winner for their song “The Drug PSA”, in the 11th Annual PDFNJ’s Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert. The statewide champions are students at Arts High School in Newark, Essex County.
Dr. Shuvendu Sen, Associate Program Director, Internal Medicine Residency, Raritan Bay Medical Center agrees there needs to be laws in place in the state of NJ so that physicians are required to reveal the adverse effects and possibility of addiction of prescription opiate medication to their patients.
On Wednesday, March 19th, PDFNJ Executive Director, Angelo M. Valente, appeared 1450 WCTC with Bert Baron from 7am - 8am. Valente and Baron discussed the upcoming New Jersey Shouts Down Drugs Substance Abuse Prevention Concert on April 17th at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.
TRENTON – The majority of NJ residents want the legislature to mandate that their doctor tell them if their prescription medicine is addictive and believe those conversations will reduce the number of individuals who become addicted to pain medications, according to a recent survey effort between Fairleigh Dickinson University’s independent survey research center, PublicMind, and PDFNJ.
TRENTON – Senate President Steve Sweeney and Senator Joseph Vitale today presented PDFNJ, with a resolution declaring March 2015 as "Drug Free Awareness Month." The presentation of the Senate resolution, sponsored by Sweeney and Vitale, took place at the organization's headquarters in Millburn, New Jersey.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo M. Valente will be appearing on MeTV on the show, “Jersey Matters”. Angelo will be talking about substance abuse prevention and PDFNJ’s role in the community. Tune in on Saturday, March 7th at 5pm and Sunday, March 8th at 9am! This show is available on Channel 2 (Philadelphia/Delaware), Channel 3 (New York/New Jersey) on FIOS, Dish, Charter and Blue Ridge.
A must-watch video for all parents. Steve Adubato speaks with four mothers who share their personal journeys in dealing with children who tragically battled opiate addiction.
Angelo M. Valente recently appeared with Senator Rice on NJ Legislative Black Caucus: From Trenton to you to discuss ways to address the problems of substance abuse in New Jersey. Click "read more" for show times and channels.
Over the past two decades, the number of prescriptions for opiate-based painkillers has tripled, while dosages have grown stronger. The prime source for the national explosion of opiate addiction -- whether in the form of painkillers such as OxyContin or in the form of illegal street drugs such as heroin -- is the dramatic increase in the use of opiate-based prescription drugs.
State officials from New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York have identified three highly lethal brands of drugs that have been responsible for at least six overdose deaths recently, the latest twist in the state's ongoing battle with heroin and opioid abuse.
Meg Parisi, Abby Boxman, and Donna DeStefano, three mothers who were featured in a video on TalkNowNJ.com, along with PDFNJ Executive Director, Angelo M. Valente, appeared on Caucus: New Jersey with Steve Adubato. TalkNowNJ.com also contains resources for parents on the signs and symptoms of opiate and a quiz to test parents’ knowledge of prescription drug abuse.
Today, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) is launching NJ Connect for Recovery, the only call line in the state dedicated specifically to individuals and families coping with addiction to heroin and prescription painkillers. The toll free phone number is 855-652-3737
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey testified in favor of Senate Bill, No. 1998 which would strengthen the New Jersey Prescription Drug Monitoring program as well as making it mandatory for physicians and pharmacists. The bill passed unanimously today in a hearing with the Senate Health Committee. To read the full text of the bill, click here.
NEWARK -- “You are the first-responders for families,” Fran Miceli told the 75 clergy, staff of religious institutions and law enforcement officials at the “Do No Harm” symposium in the Newark Museum last Thursday, December 4, 2014.
NEWARK – Turning to a faith leader to help address substance abuse addiction in a loved one is often the first step for a family. PDFNJ coordinated a free training to provide resources and information to those Faith Based leaders. The Faith Based Do No Harm Symposium was held on December 4, 2014 at the Newark Museum. The symposium was sponsored by PDFNJ and DEA-New Jersey Division.
TRENTON – Senator Joseph F. Vitale will lead a discussion with prosecutors and state advocates on Tuesday, November 18 as part of the Kean University Center for History, Politics and Policy Roundtable series. The roundtable will cover efforts to curb the state's growing heroin and opiate abuse epidemic.
PDFNJ will host a real time, interactive, live webinar of the 15-Minute Child Break exclusively with GCADA. Choose from 6 convenient webinars- November: • 11/25/14 @ 11:30am • 11/25/14 @ 1pm • 11/25/14 @ 3pm December: • 12/9/14 @ 11:30am • 12/9/14 @ 1pm • 12/9/14 @ 7pm
A symposium addressing the role of faith-based leaders in preventing substance abuse and supporting families in crisis. Join PDFNJ, the DEA-NJ, and HIDTA on 12/4/14 at 8am. Click below to register.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey appeared on "One-on-One with Steve Adubato". Valente discussed PDFNJ’s new campaign, TalkNowNJ.com and the prescription drug and heroin epidemic in New Jersey. The program will air Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 7 pm on NJTV and 12:30am on WNET
MILLBURN - The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration - New Jersey Division will be hosting a webinar on October 22nd at 11:30am to explain The Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, appeared on Comcast Newsmakers to promote the release of PDFNJ’s new web resource for parents, TalkNowNJ.com.
MILLBURN -- NJ parents want more information when their child is prescribed opioids, according to a PDFNJ report released today. The study, conducted by FDU Public Mind Poll, found more than two-thirds of NJ parents would support a law requiring them to be notified if their child’s prescription contained a potentially addictive medication, such as an opiate or amphetamine. Nearly 9 in 10 parents say they would want to be made aware of alternative medications, if one was available.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY — Physicians have to be the first line of defense in stemming the epidemic of heroin and prescription drug abuse sweeping New Jersey and the nation. That was the message given Wednesday by speakers at a symposium at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, the fifth one sponsored statewide this year by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, appeared with WCBS Afternoon Round-Up host, Wayne Cabot on Saturday, 9/20/14. Valente spoke about the heroin epidemic and the importance of early intervention. Click "READ MORE" to listen to the interview.
PDFNJ attended the grand opening of the Center for Addiction Recovery Education Services (CARES), the first peer-to-peer recovery center in Morris County and the fifth of it’s kind in New Jersey. (l-r) Anne Light, Public Relations, Morris County Prevention is Key, Barb Kauffman, Director of Prevention Services, Community Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Morris, Eriach Fox, Managing Director, Daytop New Jersey, Christopher Goeke, Executive Director, CARES, and Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director, Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey
MILLBURN – New Statewide Survey results released, today, by PDFNJ found that parents see their own home as being a top source for their children to access alcohol and do not see their home as an access point for prescription and over-the-counter drugs – despite the fact that a majority of parents recognize that the abuse of prescription narcotics contributes to the increase in heroin abuse rates in New Jersey.
PDFNJ Executive director Angelo M. Valente gave a presentation in Salem County Friday, August 22, 2014 about the dangers of prescription drug abuse in New Jersey. The presentation was attended by over 80 medical professionals.
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE - PDFNJ along with the Cape May County Prosecutor’s Office was recognized by the National Association of Government Communicators for their collaboration on their award winning campaign, “Heroin: Are you talking to your kids yet?”.
PDFNJ, in conjunction with the NJ AG, Ocean Prosecutor’s Office, Monmouth Prosecutor’s Office, and Cape May Prosecutor’s Office, was recognized by the National Association for Government Communicators for excellence in collaboration with the campaign, “Heroin: Are you talking with your kids yet?”.
The Whiptones — seniors Michael Mastellone, Derek Ritschel and Matt Korzen, and sophomore Bradley Ritschel — won a recent contest sponsored by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey - and appeared on News 12 NJ August 13, 2014.
PDFNJ Board Member Chief Michael Pasterchick, Jr., Middlesex Co. Pros. Office, to appear on One-on-One with Steve Adubato on Friday, 8/15. You can see the program at 7 & 11:30pm on NJTV and 12:30am on WNET.
The 2014 Prevention Concert is being aired on Comcast On Demand NOW thru 9/12! Comcast Digital Cable customers can view the program for free. From the On Demand menu select: Get Local/Community Investment/Specials. It is also available on Comcast’s X1 Operating System as well as its local, linear channels through Labor Day (check local listings for schedule). PDFNJ thanks NJSDD sponsor, Comcast/NBCUniversal, for supporting these amazing NJ teens and making this program available for the public to enjoy!
By Steve and Elaine Pozycki - The prescription drug abuse epidemic and its related explosion of heroin addiction continue apace in NJ. We read about the human cost in ruined lives and premature deaths in our newspapers every day. As bills are beginning to be introduced in the General Assembly and a policy response to this acknowledged epidemic is forming, now is not the time for half-measures.
From June 23 to June 27, NJ 101.5 reporter David Matthau filed an informative and important series about the rise opioid abuse in New Jersey, featuring PDFNJ executive director, Angelo M. Valente
NJ Senate and Assembly urges all citizens of NJ to participate and inform themselves about opiate abuse by visiting TalkNowNJ.com.
Dailyrecord.com: "In 2010, enough prescription painkillers were prescribed in the United States to medicate every adult American, every four hours, for a month," Paul Fishman, U.S. attorney for the District of New Jersey, said Tuesday at Morristown Medical Center. "Think about that. In the year 2000, just 14 years ago, retail pharmacies dispensed 174 million opioid prescriptions, In 2009, 257 million, an increase of almost 50 percent."
In the auditorium of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University Thursday, Meg DuPont Parisi explained to an audience of about 100 medical professionals how an addiction to prescription opiates killed her son, Patrick.
Heroin and opiate abuse has become a staggering problem in Monmouth and Ocean Co's. NJ is now home to over 10% of the nations heroin addicts, most of whom are between the ages of 17 & 26 years old. It is a problem that affects us all, regardless of social status. These are our neighbors and friends, our kids and their peers, dealing with this in schools and at parties and even in our own homes.
NEWARK — NJ has a new set of ambassadors to Shout Down Drugs. Michael Mastellone, Derek Ritschel, Bradley Ritschel, and Matt Korzen, students at Whippany Park High School, known as The Whiptones, are the statewide champions of the 10th Annual PDFNJ's Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, appeared recently on Good Morning America talking about the dangers of “glow parties”. These parties are aimed at teenagers as young as 16 and are billed as non-alcoholic, but authorities are concerned that MDMA (Molly) use is rampant.
Steven J. and Elaine Pozycki were recently honored at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Angel of Hope Gala, for which they served as co-chairs. The Pozycki’s of SJP Properties, are also on the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Board of Trustees.
Middlesex County Acting Prosecutor Andrew C. Carey and Chief John Zebrowski of the Sayreville Police Department announced today that law enforcement agencies within the county are stepping up efforts to alert parents about the growing sale and use of the illegal drug, “Molly,” at promoted events, particularly “Glow parties.” Such an event is being hosted by a Sayreville nightclub on April 12, 2014.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, in conjunction with Actavis, unveiled a Americvan Medicine Chest Rx Drop Box in Secaucus. The box is located in the lobby of the Secaucus Police Department at 1203 Patterson Plank Road.
Brick - Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and participant in the roundtable discussion, thanked Governor Christie for his leadership and concern on the issue of prescription drug and heroin abuse in New Jersey. “Narcan is a great a tool to help law enforcement and first responders to help save lives, while we continue to focus on prevention education.” Valente urged.
MIDDLESEX COUNTY --- Middlesex County residents will have more opportunities to safeguard their homes from prescription drug abuse at a permanent American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC) disposal box.
PDFNJ Ex. Dir. Angelo Valente discusses the 2014 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music competition to be held in Newark, NJ on May 21, 2014.
Angelo Valente, Ex. Dir. of PDFNJ, says New Jersey has been focused on the issue for years and warns heroin has reached what he calls epidemic levels in the state. This problem exists in all communities, not just urban areas.
Over the last six months the partnership for a drug free New Jersey has been installing permanent drop off boxes for prescription drugs. It’s called the American Medicine Chest Challenge and this is the newest box at the Atlantic County Courthouse in Mays Landing.
With the support and collaboration of Actavis, PDFNJ – the parent organization of the American Medicine Chest Challenge, recently awarded the Atlantic Co. Sheriff’s Office with a permanent collection box for the disposal of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine, the 79th permanent collection in the state of NJ. The box will be located in the vestibule of the Mays Landing Criminal Court Complex, which is open to the public from 7:30am to 5pm Monday through Friday.
The American Medicine Chest Challenge, in conjunction with Actavis, unveiled a brand new permanent prescription drug drop off box in New Providence.
Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey Executive Director Angelo Valente says parents are recognizing the problem of prescription and over the counter drug abuse and must make sure medicines are locked away and properly disposed of.
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey was featured on Geraldo At Large to discuss the heroin abuse epidemic along with Angela Cicchino, a recovering heroin addict.
PDFNJ is being honored by The Partnership at Drugfree.org with the 2012-2013 Alliance Achievement Award for its innovative and versatile approach getting its message out. (l-r) Steve Cline, Deputy Director of Field Operations, Partnership at Drugfree.org and Angelo M. Valente, Ex. Dir., PDFNJ.
One in six American teenagers have used a Rx drug to get high. Over the period of a month, roughly 7 million Americans use Rx drugs for nonmedical reasons. Drugs are now the No. 1 accidental killer in the United States, with the vast majority of deaths caused by Rx drugs. There is now one death every 24 minutes.
If you are a high school student and want to perform in front hundreds join the 2014 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music competition. Cash contracts awarded to the top three finishers.
Emily Brzozowski, Audrey Mannion, and Caroline Savage, 8th grade students at Brielle Elementary School, were selected as statewide winners in PDFNJ’s Annual Middle School PSA Announcement Challenge. They students competed against over 500 of their peers from every part of NJ to create the most creative and powerful substance abuse prevention television commercial script.
Angelo Valente appeared on the Caucus: New Jersey panel with Steve Adubato discussing Rx drug abuse and what parents can do about it. Tune in to learn about this epidemic gripping New Jersey and the rest of the country.
Click here for resources to manage the emotional impact of Hurricane Sandy
NEW BRUNSWICK— Talking to your kids about the dangers of heroin is the theme of a new public service campaign created by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ), in collaboration with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, and the County Prosecutors in Monmouth, Ocean, and Cape May Counties.
The Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration-New Jersey, and the New York/New Jersey HIDTA, will host the Do No Harm Symposium: Keeping it Legal and Safe in the Medical Community, A symposium with New Jersey’s medical community on the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and professional responsibilities and role of the medical community in curbing this epidemic. The event will be held on October 30, 2013 at Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, New Jersey. The event will be held from 8 am until 1 pm.
Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. joined with PDFNJ & community leaders at CVS Pharmacy in So. Plainfield, NJ to announce his legislation, the Medicare Prescription Drug Integrity Act, to address new reports of inappropriate payments for prescriptions of controlled substances in Medicare’s Part D program.
Ex. Dir., Angelo Valente, FoxNY Good Day Street Talk (@Fox5GDST) with @bensimmoneau talking substance abuse & important info for parents. The growing trend of heroin use in New Jersey has increased drastically and many of the victims are kids.
The Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey unveiled its Waves of Hope campaign designed to get mental health and substance abuse aid to victims of Hurricane Sandy.
The Millburn Police Department, in conjunction with the American Medicine Chest Challenge, introduced a custom designed permanent prescription drug drop-off box at their station on Essex Road in Millburn.
Nicole Levine of Essex County is the statewide champion of the Ninth Annual PDFNJ’s Shout Down Drugs Prevention Concert. On Thursday, May 23, thirty-three New Jersey high school student finalists, representing 15 counties, competed at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, New Jersey.
Over 8,000 fourth grade students from across New Jersey participated in the Fourteenth Annual Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey/Verizon New Jersey Design a Fourth Grade Folder Contest.
One-fourth of teens have misused or abused a prescription drug at least once in their lifetime, a 33 percent increase over the last five years, a new study finds
Parents who discuss drinking with their teens before they start college can influence their children’s drinking behavior once they are at school, a new study suggests.
ATLANTIC CITY— PDFNJ and Fairleigh Dickinson University’s PublicMind, today, released the results of their six year study of the effectiveness of drug-testing in the prevention of substance abuse among New Jersey middle school students at the statewide Addiction Conference, Atlantic City.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- How it affects children will be one factor the Justice Department weighs as it determines how to respond to the legalization of marijuana in Washington state and Colorado,Attorney General Eric Holder told Congress Thursday.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, today, released the finalist list for the 2013 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Competition(NJSDD), its substance abuse prevention themed music and song writing competition for high school students.
PDFNJ is calling on NJ middle school students to write, star and produce a television commercial with a substance abuse prevention message for their peers by entering the 14th Annual Middle School Public Service Announcement Challenge (MSPSA).
MILLBURN — Ladies and Gentlemen, the votes are in! The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) announced, today, that Nicole Levine of Essex County is this year’s New Jersey Shout Down Drugs (NJSDD) “Online Voting People’s Choice Finalist.” Levine received the highest vote count of the 110,000 votes cast.
Supporting Revisions to the Parental Consent Law for Surveying Students.
Alcohol use by our children is a significant problem in our state and across the country. As a father of three and the Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug–Free New Jersey, (PDFNJ) for the past eighteen years, it is startling to realize that 46 percent of New Jersey children in the seventh and eighth grades have experimented with alcohol.
MILLBURN -- The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) sadly mourns the passing of Riley Regan, the first Executive Director of the New Jersey Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (GCADA) and a lifelong, outspoken advocate for the field of substance abuse prevention and treatment.
On November 10, 2012, a historic and lifesaving event --- The American Medicine Chest Challenge(AMCC) --- a public health initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of prescription drug abuse will be held in communities throughout New Jersey.
In 2007, PDFNJ knew, that 70% of people who were abusing Rx drugs were obtaining them from the medicine cabinets of friends and relatives. At that point PDFNJ knew this important statistic had to be shared -- and we dedicated all of our resources to disseminating this important information to all NJ residents. PDFNJ created a simple message with an image of a Grandmother – alerting residents that there may be a "stash" of potentially life threatening substances in their medicine cabinets.
US Attorney Paul Fishman, center, launched the Right Prescription for New Jersey today along with, l-r, , Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, DEA-NJ Special Agent-in-Charge Brian Crowell, Christopher Cerf, New Jersey Commissioner of Education, and NJ State Commission of Investigation Chairman, Patrick Hobbs.
The Medicine Abuse Project is a unifying campaign that brings together families, communities, industry, health care professionals, educators, law enforcement and government officials to curb teen medicine abuse, and ultimately save lives. The campaign launches during the week of September 23-29, 2012
PDFNJ applauds Gov. Christie and the NJ legislature for their keen understanding of the complex issues of substance abuse and addiction. Through this legislation, which the Gov. spearheaded, thousands of lives will be saved, and thousands of families will have hope in this second chance provided to their children.
Three-quarters of teenage patients in substance abuse treatment programs in Denver, Colorado said they used someone else’s medical marijuana, according to a new study.
Steve Forbes, CEO of Forbes, Inc., is pictured with Nick Alu, winner of the 2012 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Competition at the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Conference in Atlantic City. Also pictured from left to right, are the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Director of Media, Angela Conover, and Executive Director, Angelo M. Valente; Nick’s mother Patricia Hutchins, and Paul Rotella, President and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association.
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for A Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is featured on NJTV's NJ Today's Nightly News to discuss the release of PDFNJ.s annual Tracking Study of Parent Attitude and Behavior in Alcohol and Drug Abuse.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey, visited the Helen L. Beeler Elementary School in Marlton, Burlington County, to recognize the participation of school parent Nicole Weiner, in PDFNJ's Fifth Grade Parent Alert initiative, supported by the Horizon Foundation for New Jersey.
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Kimberly Smith, Regional Director, Community Investment, Comcast, are pictured with the winners of the 2012 New Jersey Shouts Down Drugs Concert. First Place Winner Nicolas Alu, Lacey Township High School, Ocean County, Second Place Winner Joanne Dumerand, Arts High School, Essex County, Third Place Winners Kishawn Jack, Hudson County Prep High School, Hudson County, and the members of The Starving Artists Avery Peterson and Kevin Karol from Rumson-Fair Haven High School, Monmouth County, are pictured left to right. Also pictured is, center, is NJSDD Master of Ceremonies, Patrick Boll, star of the Broadway Hit Mamma Mia.
Washington DC -- The American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC), the nation’s largest privately funded public health campaign preventing prescription drug abuse, announced today, the release of a mobile app ‘AMCC Rx Drop’ connecting users to the locations of permanent prescription drug collection boxes for the collection of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine.
Dennis M. Bone, President of Verizon New Jersey, was honored for Verizon New Jersey’s commitment to substance abuse prevention in the State by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) at its 20th Anniversary Angel of Hope Gala. Bone, center, received the Angel of Hope Award at the April 26, 2012 event. He is pictured with, left to right, Steve Pasierb, President, Partnership at DrugFree.Org; Gala Chair John A. Azzarello, PDFNJ Trustee, and partner at Arseneault, Whipple, Fassett & Azzarello, LLP; Tracy Baldwin, Manager, PhRMA; Joseph A. Miele, PDFNJ Chairman; and Angelo M. Valente, PDFNJ Executive Director.
A panel with representatives from government, schools, police and nonprofits gathered at Bergen Community College Tuesday to discuss a growing health issue: prescription drug abuse. Forty Americans die each day from overdosing on prescription painkillers, said Angelo Valente, executive director of PDFNJ. One way to prevent these deaths is through education, he said. "Tonight we are doing exactly what we need to do," Valente said. "We are learning about the issue."
(NEWARK) – Over 8,000 fourth grade students from across NJ participated in the 13th Annual PDFNJ/Verizon New Jersey Design a Fourth Grade Folder Contest. The students from 4th grade classrooms across NJ were challenged to create peer-to-peer substance abuse prevention messages. The theme of the contest was “Fun Things to do Instead of Doing Drugs.”
The 2012 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music concert is scheduled for May 24, 2012 at the Newark PAC. Angelo Valente sits down with Comcast Newsmakers to discuss the NJSDD competition and more.
Washington DC -- The American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC), the nation’s largest privately funded public health campaign preventing prescription drug abuse, announced today, the creation of a national online directory of permanent prescription drug collection boxes for the collection of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine. Currently, the directory includes collection sites in 50 states, including New Jersey. New Jersey currently has permanent collection locations in Burlington, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Hunterdon, Morris and Ocean counties.
PDFNJ is proud to announce that Dennis M. Bone, President of Verizon New Jersey, will be honored at the organization’s Twentieth Anniversary Gala on April 26, 2012, with the Angel of Hope Award.
MILLBURN— Maintaining a drug free workplace policy enables New Jersey businesses to be more productive and more successful, according to a new study released today by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ). The survey was conducted by Fairleigh Dickinson University’s PublicMindTM Poll of 300 New Jersey businesses, in December 2011.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and A&E Television Networks, LLC, hosted a live Town Hall Meeting on prescription drug addiction. Left to Right: John L. Hulick, Acting Executive Director, Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director, PDFNJ; Diane Litterer, Executive Director, New Jersey Prevention Network; Steve Pasierb, President & CEO, The Partnership at Drugfree.org; and Honorable Lawrence Cooper, Board of Trustee Member, PDFNJ.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo M. Valente presents the Thomas Edison Leadership Award for Excellence in Public Service to Paul S. Rotella, Esq., President and Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association and Robert Dunphy, Chairman of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association.
PDFNJ applauds Gov. Christie and the NJ legislature for their keen understanding of the complex issues of substance abuse and addiction. Through this legislation, which the Gov. spearheaded, thousands of lives will be saved, and thousands of families will have hope in this second chance provided to their children.
Three-quarters of teenage patients in substance abuse treatment programs in Denver, Colorado said they used someone else’s medical marijuana, according to a new study.
Steve Forbes, CEO of Forbes, Inc., is pictured with Nick Alu, winner of the 2012 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Competition at the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Conference in Atlantic City. Also pictured from left to right, are the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Director of Media, Angela Conover, and Executive Director, Angelo M. Valente; Nick’s mother Patricia Hutchins, and Paul Rotella, President and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association.
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for A Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) is featured on NJTV's NJ Today's Nightly News to discuss the release of PDFNJ.s annual Tracking Study of Parent Attitude and Behavior in Alcohol and Drug Abuse.
Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey, visited the Helen L. Beeler Elementary School in Marlton, Burlington County, to recognize the participation of school parent Nicole Weiner, in PDFNJ's Fifth Grade Parent Alert initiative, supported by the Horizon Foundation of New Jersey.
Angelo Valente, Executive Director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey and Kimberly Smith, Regional Director, Community Investment, Comcast, are pictured with the winners of the 2012 New Jersey Shouts Down Drugs Concert. First Place Winner Nicolas Alu, Lacey Township High School, Ocean County, Second Place Winner Joanne Dumerand, Arts High School, Essex County, Third Place Winners Kishawn Jack, Hudson County Prep High School, Hudson County, and the members of The Starving Artists Avery Peterson and Kevin Karol from Rumson-Fair Haven High School, Monmouth County, are pictured left to right. Also pictured is, center, is NJSDD Master of Ceremonies, Patrick Boll, star of the Broadway Hit Mamma Mia.
Washington DC -- The American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC), the nation’s largest privately funded public health campaign preventing prescription drug abuse, announced today, the release of a mobile app ‘AMCC Rx Drop’ connecting users to the locations of permanent prescription drug collection boxes for the collection of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine.
Dennis M. Bone, President of Verizon New Jersey, was honored for Verizon New Jersey’s commitment to substance abuse prevention in the State by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) at its 20th Anniversary Angel of Hope Gala. Bone, center, received the Angel of Hope Award at the April 26, 2012 event. He is pictured with, left to right, Steve Pasierb, President, Partnership at DrugFree.Org; Gala Chair John A. Azzarello, PDFNJ Trustee, and partner at Arseneault, Whipple, Fassett & Azzarello, LLP; Tracy Baldwin, Manager, PhRMA; Joseph A. Miele, PDFNJ Chairman; and Angelo M. Valente, PDFNJ Executive Director.
A panel with representatives from government, schools, police and nonprofits gathered at Bergen Community College Tuesday to discuss a growing health issue: prescription drug abuse. Forty Americans die each day from overdosing on prescription painkillers, said Angelo Valente, executive director of PDFNJ. One way to prevent these deaths is through education, he said. "Tonight we are doing exactly what we need to do," Valente said. "We are learning about the issue."
(NEWARK) – Over 8,000 fourth grade students from across NJ participated in the 13th Annual PDFNJ/Verizon New Jersey Design a Fourth Grade Folder Contest. The students from 4th grade classrooms across NJ were challenged to create peer-to-peer substance abuse prevention messages. The theme of the contest was “Fun Things to do Instead of Doing Drugs.”
The 2012 New Jersey Shout Down Drugs music concert is scheduled for May 24, 2012 at the Newark PAC. Angelo Valente sits down with Comcast Newsmakers to discuss the NJSDD competition and more.
Washington DC -- The American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC), the nation’s largest privately funded public health campaign preventing prescription drug abuse, announced today, the creation of a national online directory of permanent prescription drug collection boxes for the collection of unused, unwanted, and expired medicine. Currently, the directory includes collection sites in 50 states, including New Jersey. New Jersey currently has permanent collection locations in Burlington, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Hunterdon, Morris and Ocean counties.
PDFNJ is proud to announce that Dennis M. Bone, President of Verizon New Jersey, will be honored at the organization’s Twentieth Anniversary Gala on April 26, 2012, with the Angel of Hope Award.
MILLBURN— Maintaining a drug free workplace policy enables New Jersey businesses to be more productive and more successful, according to a new study released today by the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ). The survey was conducted by Fairleigh Dickinson University’s PublicMindTM Poll of 300 New Jersey businesses, in December 2011.
The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) and A&E Television Networks, LLC, hosted a live Town Hall Meeting on prescription drug addiction. Left to Right: John L. Hulick, Acting Executive Director, Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; Angelo M. Valente, Executive Director, PDFNJ; Diane Litterer, Executive Director, New Jersey Prevention Network; Steve Pasierb, President & CEO, The Partnership at Drugfree.org; and Honorable Lawrence Cooper, Board of Trustee Member, PDFNJ.
PDFNJ Executive Director Angelo M. Valente presents the Thomas Edison Leadership Award for Excellence in Public Service to Paul S. Rotella, Esq., President and Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association and Robert Dunphy, Chairman of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association.
Congratulations to the students from Martin Luther King Jr. (PS #30)!
Winners of PDFNJ’s 2026 Middle School Video PSA Contest with their entry, “Is It Worth It?”
Winning Students:
• Ezekiel Burgos, Grade 8
• Shaila Galon, Grade 8
• Genesis Gonzalez, Grade 8
• Morgan Henry, Grade 8
• Arelia Henry, Grade 8
Well done creating an impactful peer-to-peer message!