The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) said Sept. 24 that it earned top honors at the 57th Annual Jersey Awards, receiving two first-place awards for its nonprofit public service campaigns.
The event, held on Sept. 17, was organized and judged by the New Jersey Ad Club, the state’s largest association representing advertisers, marketers, media, and public relations professionals.
PDFNJ received recognition for the following initiatives:
- Parents Matter – Radio PSA Campaign: First Place, Radio Not-for-Profit/Pro Bono Work
This radio campaign highlights the crucial role parents play in preventing youth substance use by promoting open conversations within families. PDFNJ developed the campaign with creative support from Michelle Mazur and Debra Rizzi of Rizco. - Knock Out Opioid Abuse (KOOA) Campaign: First Place, Public Relations Not-for-Profit/Pro Bono Work
The KOOA campaign engages schools, communities, and health care professionals in raising awareness about the dangers of opioid misuse and promoting prevention strategies across New Jersey.
Former NFL and Rutgers University player and New Jersey native Ray Lucas spoke to student-athletes across the state about the devastating impact of opioids. Lucas developed an addiction to opioids while he recovered from multiple football injuries. The programs were supported by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.
“We are truly honored to be recognized with these awards from the New Jersey Ad Club,” said Angelo M. Valente, executive director of the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey. “These campaigns reflect the collaborative spirit of our work and the dedication of our partners, who share our mission to protect families and communities from the devastating impact of substance use.”
