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14 March 2016

Courage Awards to Celebrate Care Plus NJ Community and the Power to Change a Lifetime

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Care Plus NJ

The Care Plus Foundation, Inc. (“Care Plus NJ Foundation”) will hold its 18th Annual Courage Awards Gala on June 8th, 2016 at the Venetian in Garfield to benefit the clients and programs of Care Plus NJ, Inc. (“Care Plus NJ”). The event is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year and is designed to celebrate those who work tirelessly to representative for Behavioral Health.

Care Plus NJ is a local non-profit Behavioral Health organization that provides services to individuals and families throughout Northern New Jersey. The continuum of care includes crisis response, outpatient programs, substance abuse services, a full spectrum of children and family services, and many more programs that help with prevention, wellness and recovery through behavioral health care.

This year’s honorees include Leonard Marshall Jr, former NFL defensive lineman and representative for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy; Ron Weaver, longtime supporter of Care Plus NJ; and Thomas Rosamilia, Vice President of Behavioral Health Services at Bergen Regional Medical Center. The Care Plus NJ Foundation will also present the Compassionate Care Award to Dr. John Bostrom for his work that represents the best care in the field of Behavioral Health.

“The Courage Awards capture the spirit of care and compassion that Care Plus NJ has been built upon,” said Tara Augustine, Senior Vice President at Care Plus NJ. “Everyone works so hard to overcome challenges and achieve positive outcomes. This event not only celebrates Care Plus NJ, local representatives, and supporters, but also recognizes the efforts and successes of the individuals that benefit from our services.”

Every year a portion of the evening is dedicated to individuals enrolled in Care Plus NJ services that are pursuing their educational goals. In 2015 the Care Plus NJ Foundation awarded $55,000 in scholarships to support these efforts. The remainder of the funding that is raised through the Courage Awards Gala is used for housing and medication assistance, as well as to fund addiction services, outpatient therapy for children and adults, child abuse intervention and much more.

“This year we are embracing the theme of ‘The Power to Change a Lifetime’ to highlight the significant role that Care Plus NJ has played in so many lives,” continued Augustine. “We believe in working with the people that we serve so that they take an active part in their healthcare. We help to empower these individuals and families so that they can achieve and sustain wellness on many levels.”

The Courage Awards Gala includes a cocktail hour, dinner, live and silent auctions, a 50/50 raffle and more. Attendees are expected from across the state, including local community partners, state representatives and supporters from the Northern New Jersey business community. Individual tickets are available at $175 each, with full tables of 10 offered for $1,500.

The Care Plus NJ Foundation is currently welcoming dinner guests, sponsors, and auction donations. For more information, call 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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