March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month, and Millburn-based Opportunity Project is inviting community members to support the upcoming events focusing on brain injury prevention and improving the quality of life for persons living with traumatic brain injury and their families.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1.5 million Americans sustain a TBI each year and over 5.3 million Americans live with a TBI-related disability. Brain Injury Awareness Month was created to acknowledge the causes and consequences of brain injury and the need for greater prevention, research, education and advocacy on behalf of individuals who experience a life-changing brain injury.
In honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, Opportunity Project is hosting various awareness and fundraising events, which are open to the public:
- 11 a.m. March 16: Join Millburn Mayor Maggee Miggins virtually as she supports the cause with a proclamation presentation declaring March as Brain Injury Awareness Month to kick off Opportunity Project’s Annual Awareness Campaign.
- 5 p.m. March 19: Opportunity Project is partnering with ShopRite to host the Welcome Spring Virtual Cooking Class. Cook a delicious meal with culinary expert and Executive Chef Danny Arturo from the comfort of your own kitchen — you’ll be able to watch and learn, ask questions, sharpen your cooking skills or simply make a donation. This event is sponsored by Bank of America Private Bank, the Sobel Family Foundation and the Sudler Family Foundation.
- 3 p.m. April 9: Join Opportunity Project at J. Nuñez Gallery in Millburn to view a beautiful exhibition of works by talented Opportunity Project members and internationally renowned Spanish chef and artist J. Nuñez. Meet the artists and enjoy some light refreshments. A portion of the proceeds of sales will benefit Opportunity Project. This event is sponsored by Rita Yohalem and family.
- For the entire month of March: J. Nuñez will donate 50% of the proceeds from March sales of “Love Always” artwork to Opportunity Project. See the beautiful and vibrant “Love Always” collection on display at the J. Nuñez Gallery in Millburn and at jnunezgallery.com.
- Throughout the month of March: You can support Opportunity Project with your own fundraiser — designate a day for your employees or group to wear green (the official color of brain injury awareness), host an OP-coordinated Paint & Sip Event with art instructor Lucy Santiago or any fundraiser you choose.
Opportunity Project’s mission remains stronger than ever, having recently added a speech-language program as well as evening and weekend sessions. Currently, the clubhouse offers a hybrid model to include both remote and on-site programs, offering members more flexibility and maximum support.
For additional information on any of these events or Brain Injury Awareness Month, contact Julie London at JLondon@opportunityproject.org or click here.
