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4 March 2017

Care Plus NJ Annual Courage Awards Celebrates Building Community Connections

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Care Plus NJ

The Care Plus NJ Foundation will hold its 19th Annual Courage Awards Gala on May 10, 2017 at the Venetian in Garfield, benefiting the clients and programs of Care Plus NJ. This year’s Courage Award recipients include law enforcement, legislative and celebrity guests.

The Gala celebrates those who tirelessly representative on behalf of the Behavioral Health community. Proceeds fund educational scholarships, housing and medication assistance, substance abuse services, outpatient treatment and therapy for children and adults who are enrolled in Care Plus NJ services, as well as public support activities and community education.

“The future of our community-based Behavioral Health system is at a critical point,” stated Joe Masciandaro, CEO/President at Care Plus NJ. “We are working tirelessly as a community to lead, and establish the connections necessary to continue providing the most comprehensive care and effective services. The spectrum of honorees this year demonstrates this focus on community.”

This year’s honorees include:

  • Carmen Carrera for her fearless leadership in individual identity population group public support activities
  • Prosecutor Gurbir Grewal for taking action to #StopTheODs in Bergen County
  • Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D37) for her legislative motion to establish thorough oversight of the funding individualition for the community Behavioral Health system
  • Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi (R39) for her voice and support of the public support activities efforts regarding the funding individualition for the community Behavioral Health system
  • Police Officer Juan Guzman accepting on behalf of Port Authority Police Department for their role in suicide prevention on the George Washington Bridge and involvement with the Crisis Intervention Team.

“The Gala demonstrates how immersed Care Plus NJ is in the community, and the celebratory success stories emphasize the power of the work we do,” Masciandaro continued. “People leave with an understanding of what the human spirit is capable of, and how we support that spirit with genuine care and compassion.”

Registration includes a cocktail hour, dinner, live and silent auctions, and a 50/50 raffle.Individual tickets are available at $175 each, with full tables of 10 offered for $1,500.

For more information contact the Foundation Office at 201-986-5070.

Donate today to make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

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Belief

Belief refers to the confidence, faith, and conviction that individuals have in their ability to overcome addiction, make positive changes in their lives, and maintain long-term recovery. In substance use recovery learning self efficacy (self-belief), challenging negative beliefs, creating a positive mindset, and investing in new values gained from addressing one’s substance use disorder and Behavioral Health issues – improves oneself, relationships, and the future.

Every patient at Care Plus NJ has access to Behavioral Health professionals, including psychiatrists, and psychologists. In addition, each is assigned a case manager, drug and alcohol counselor, and peer recovery specialist who play a pivotal role in the treatment process.

As a Behavioral Health professional, they guide education, group therapy and support groups and other Behavioral Health services as indicated based on each persons needs.

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Motivation

Motivation refers to the internal drive, desire, and commitment of an individual to initiate and sustain positive changes in their behavior, lifestyle, and overall well-being. It is a crucial factor in the C.L.I.M.B. recovery process, as overcoming addiction often requires significant effort, perseverance, and a genuine commitment to change.

Motivated individuals in recovery set clear and realistic goals for themselves. Utilizing the stages of change model, Care Plus NJ walks patients through various stages of a substance use disorder, including precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and relapse prevention. Understanding these stages helps individuals navigate their unique recovery journey.

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Insight

Insight refers to a deep and clear understanding of oneself, one’s behaviors, and the factors contributing to substance abuse. It involves gaining awareness into the root causes of addiction, recognizing patterns of behavior, and developing a clearer understanding of the impact of substance use on various aspects of one’s life. Insight is a critical component of the recovery process as it provides a foundation for positive change and sustained recovery.

Insight involves exploring the underlying issues that may contribute to drug abuse, such as past severe psychological distresss, Behavioral Health issues, or unresolved emotional challenges. Addressing these root causes is essential for long-term recovery.

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Courage

Courage in the context of recovering from drug addiction, refers to the ability to confront and overcome the challenges and fears associated with the recovery process in a person’s life. It involves facing one’s vulnerabilities, acknowledging the need for change, and taking positive steps toward a healthier and drug-free life.

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Love

Love plays a significant and multifaceted role in the process of recovery from drug and substance abuse. Having a network of supportive and understanding family members, friends, or partners is immensely valuable during the recovery journey. Community, fellowship and support groups emphasize the importance of connection with others who understand the challenges of addiction. Repairing relationships damaged by substance use often involves acts of love, forgiveness, and rebuilding trust.

In essence, love in the context of substance use recovery encompasses self-love, support from others, understanding, accountability, community, rebuilding relationships, and a renewed appreciation for life.

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