Prevention First celebrates 35 years of service

The world today is complicated. Great technological advances have allowed us more options as well as quickened the pace of our daily lives. From cell phones toted with us in all spheres of our lives, to communicating with the world at a touch of a button, to an array of information available wherever we go, the world is changing. Not to mention the tremendous ongoing impact on our lives created by the events of 9/11.

Just as our world continues to change, we need to adjust how we care for ourselves and how we prepare for a more complex and uncertain future. Reaching the 35th anniversary milestone, as a nonprofit charity is not easy, our mission is even more relevant today—it presents us with a challenge to work even harder to spread awareness for our community to live their lives to the fullest—healthy, safe and drug-free!

But just as the complexities of our lives continue to accelerate, too many people are struggling with alcohol and drug abuse. There are an estimated 37,528 adult problem drinkers in need of treatment in Monmouth County and one directly impacts at least five other persons daily. An estimated 20,369 adult drug abusers are in need of treatment living in our community today. Prevention First is committed to improving the conditions and opportunities for children and families to live in a safe, drug- and violence-free environment that encourages healthy lifestyles by offering the community, programs and services of the highest caliber.

Our agency has grown stronger over time, beginning in 1967 as the Alcoholism Council of Monmouth County with one employee to functioning today as a team of 25 highly trained award-winning professionals. Since that time, more than 175,000 children and families have benefited from the comprehensive range of programs and services we have offered throughout the years.

Not only have we adapted with the changes of the world, but also we’ve helped navigate the well being of Monmouth County by addressing important issues as they emerge with key conferences, school programs and office workshops. We’ve incorporated critical thought-provoking issues into prevention and education programs by recognizing a trend early on and raising awareness within Monmouth County.

After 35 years, the world has certainly changed, but each day, week, month and year we continue to be amazed by the individuals involved in our programs and services that have committed to great, positive change within themselves. We thank the community for its support and we look forward to our mission of keeping children, families and communities healthy, safe and drug-free in Monmouth County. For more information on our services, please contact us by calling (732) 663-1800.

Joseph E. Farren

President

Prevention First

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