One Voice, a faith based coalition, will address how spiritual leaders can help combat the heroin epidemic at a Summit on Thursday, Sept. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
FLEMINGTON - Much has been written lately in the papers, and broadcast on TV, about the heroin epidemic facing the country; and unfortunately, it has hit us here in Hunterdon County.
Although we know that many turn to heroin once they are addicted to prescription drugs, why do they turn to drugs in the first place?
"Often, there might be something missing in their lives or they may not know how to cope with the stressors or problems they may be facing in their life," said Msgr. Randy Vashon of Immaculate Conception Church in Annandale. "Talking to someone about a difficult problem in your life is one way to get you through that challenge. Sometimes, one may turn to their faith leader for that counseling and guidance."
One Voice, a faith based coalition, will address how spiritual leaders can help combat the heroin epidemic at a Summit on Thursday, Sept. 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
This event, titled The Heroin Epidemic - Healing through Faith Communities, will be held at The Farmhouse at Grand Colonial in Hampton.
There is no charge for this event; it is intended for all Hunterdon County faith leaders and community members.
"Faith leaders have a respected and strong voice within their congregations and make a huge difference in community outreach," said Peggy Dowd, One Voice director. "Each year, we address one social issue and this year it is the devastating heroin epidemic."
One Voice is pleased to have nationally-acclaimed speaker, Carlton Hall, from CADCA (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America). Mr. Hall can speak to both the substance abuse and prevention of same through the spiritual component. He has worked in faith communities throughout the country to reduce substance abuse.
One Voice is now in its fourth year of service to the community.
"We have tackled prescription drugs, suicide prevention, marijuana, and now, heroin. These topics were chosen because they affect the whole county, they do not discriminate," said Hunterdon County Prosecutor Anthony P. Kearns, III. "Through One Voice, we have been able to address these critical issues with "one voice" from a majority of our faith leaders, all relaying the message on the same weekend.
This year, the collective message regarding the heroin epidemic will be presented over the weekend of Oct. 7-9.
If you are interested in attending the Summit, please register with Cathy Canterino at 908-782-3909 or via email at ccanterino@hunterdonprevention.com.
One Voice is a two way communication process that addresses social issues through our faith communities. One Voice is managed through a collaborative steering committee comprised of the Hunterdon County Prosecutor, diverse faith leaders and the Safe Communities Coalition.
The focus of One Voice is to bring together law enforcement and the Safe Communities Coalition with leaders of the faith-based community to have "one voice" when addressing today's difficult challenges like substance abuse, crime and the safety of our community. Social level change can be achieved with all groups working together, delivering the same message.
Submitted by the Safe Communities Coalition.