Welcome to our new website!

25 March 2013

Care Plus NJ Foundation Announces 15th Annual Courage Awards Gala

Written by

Care Plus NJ

Gala Hero | Care Plus NJ||

The Care Plus NJ Foundation is recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exemplary courage and dedication in their support of the Behavioral Health community at their annual Courage Awards Gala on May 29, 2013 at the Venetian in Garfield, New Jersey.

This year’s honorees include actor, Academy Award winning writer, founder of The Trevor Project and Hasbrouck Heights native, James Lecesne.  Local supporters Julia Orlando, Director of the Bergen County Housing, Health, and Human Services Center; Mary Ann Uzzi, former chairperson of the Care Plus NJ Foundation; and Nancy Schuring, Foundation supporter and owner of Devon Fine Jewelry in Wyckoff, will also be recognized.

The Courage Awards honor and celebrate individuals and organizations who work tirelessly on behalf of others facing the daily and life-long challenges of mental illness and support the work of Care Plus NJ. Past Courage Awards honorees include actor Joe Pantoliano; former First Lady of New Jersey, Mary Jo Cody; and Miss America 2012, Laura Kaeppeler.

“Mental illness touches 1 out of every 4 individuals in our community,” said Frank Coppola, chairperson of the Foundation. “The Courage Awards recognizes those working tirelessly to eliminate the stigma of mental illness and meet the needs of those who are struggling.  The event gives us an opportunity to honor those whose efforts often go unnoticed.”

The Courage Awards Gala includes a cocktail hour, dinner, silent auction, raffle, and more. The event is the Foundation’s largest annual fundraising event, attracting attendees from across the state, including representatives and supporters from the Northern New Jersey business community.

The Foundation is currently welcoming dinner guests, sponsors, and auction donations. For more information, visit Care Plus NJFoundation.org or call 201-986-5070.

About Care Plus NJ Foundation, Inc. (“Care Plus NJ Foundation”)
The Care Plus NJ Foundation – a supporting arm of Care Plus NJ, Inc. (“Care Plus NJ”) – was created with a mission to decrease the stigma of mental illness and pave the way to accessibility of care for those looking to seek help. As a 501c(3) non-profit organization, all donations are tax deductible in accordance with Federal and State regulations.

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

Support our Mission

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE

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.

CLOSE