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About CIC

Our Progress

Our Progress

Beginning with a tearful conversation four years ago around a kitchen table, we have:

  • Conducted Medical Grand Rounds at Morristown Medical Center to educate physicians.
  • Twice sponsored Chris Herren at the local high school: Chris is an ex-NBA Star addicted to heroin who talks about his fall from grace. 
  • Created a Public Service Announcement with Tobin Heath, a Ridge High School graduate, World Cup Winner, and Gold Medalist on the Women’s National Soccer Team. The PSA ran in prime position for ten months at the local cinema.
  • Held medicine take-back days twice a year with yields of hundreds of pounds of unused opioids. 
  • Collaborated with Horizon BC/BS-NJ and Rutgers Medical and Pharmacy Schools to create an evidence-based statewide toolkit exportable to other communities with the message, “Implement two or three of these no-to-low cost initiatives listed on our toolkit, and you will probably save a life.”
  • Presented in front of GCADA and the statewide Municipal Alliances, the NJ State YMCA Social Responsibility Conference, and numerous community organizations.
  • Continued to offer bi-weekly support groups for families struggling with addiction.
  • In conjunction with PTOs, HSAs and the Municipal Alliance, coordinated a community-wide parent presentation attended by approximately 740 community residents.
  • Opened a 3,000 square foot Community Hub offering a welcoming environment to everyone seeking information, resources and volunteer opportunities that can help support them and others in the face of the opioid epidemic.
  • Hired two full-time positions to grow and scale out the work of CiC.

CiC was awarded federal funding in the amount of $125,000 for five and potentially ten years, along with significant funding from the Horizon Foundation. Local concerned citizens are also firmly behind our work and are robust supporters. Several local pharmaceutical companies are also supporting areas of CiC’s work.

Jody D’Agostini, founder and Chair of the Board, has been recognized with five awards for CiC’s work: the Freedom House “Citizen of the Year” Award in 2015, The NJ Alliance of YMCAs “Social Responsibility Champion Award” in 2016, the Boy Scouts of America “Women of Distinction” Award in 2016, the Somerset County Commission on Women, “Hometown Hero” Award in 2017, and the Investment News national Invest in Others 2017 Catalyst Award Winner. The awards are accepted to bring attention to the magnitude of the epidemic and the work of our passionate volunteers.

Prevention and Early Action
Toolkits
Workshops and Training
Recovery Support