Family Connections - NJ4S Essex

04/15/2026

NJ4S is making a real impact across New Jersey—but now it’s at risk of being shut down.

📊 97% of school support requests are being met
🎓 Over 1 MILLION student connections statewide
💬 70% of students show improved mental health outcomes

These aren’t just numbers—they represent students getting the support they need, when they need it.

Family Connections is proud to stand alongside 20+ hubs across the state to advocate for the future of NJ4S. Ending this program would disrupt trusted relationships and leave schools rebuilding critical support systems from the ground up.

Join us in raising your voice to 💙

04/08/2026

Help Us Protect NJ4S! This vital program provides mental health and support services that many schools can’t offer on their own. Take action now to help protect it.

04/01/2026

Don’t just take our word for it—hear what people are saying about NJ4S-Essex. 💬 ⁠
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03/27/2026

Missed the full conversation?

Here’s a highlight from The High Stakes: Understanding and Parenting Gambling in Youth.

Watch the full webinar on YouTube or head to the link in our bio.

03/26/2026

How can parents help shape the next generation of confident, resilient leaders? 🌱
Join Family Connections’ NJ4S-Essex for our upcoming webinar, “Rooted in Resilience: How Parents Can Cultivate Youth Leaders.” Hear from Cori Hammond and Linda Richter as they share practical, real-life strategies to help you support your child’s growth, encourage open communication, and build leadership skills at home.

📅 April 22, 2026
⏰ 5:30 PM

Register today and be part of the conversation—plus, attendees will have a chance to win an Amazon gift card!

Register Here ➡️https://zoom.us/meeting/register/NLrpp732Tm63BnI_2hMklA #/registration

03/23/2026

Don’t just take our word for it—hear what people are saying about NJ4S-Essex. 💬

02/27/2026

Talking to kids about racism and discrimination can feel uncomfortable — but silence doesn’t protect them. Conversation does. 💛

When young people experience or witness racism, it can impact their confidence, sense of safety, and emotional well-being. As parents and caregivers, creating space for open, honest dialogue helps kids feel supported and empowered.

This carousel shares simple ways to start those conversations, validate your child’s feelings, and equip them with tools to respond safely.

At NJ4S-Essex, we’re here to support youth and families navigating difficult topics and challenging experiences. No family has to do this alone.

If your child needs additional support, reach out to NJ4S-Essex to learn more about our services.

02/26/2026

Gambling among young people is on the rise — and it’s time we talk about it. Join NJ4S-Essex for an important webinar focused on understanding the impact of youth gambling and how parents, caregivers, and community members can respond with awareness, compassion, and action.⁠
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📅 March 18, 2026⁠
⏰ 5:30 PM⁠
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Hear from experts as they discuss the realities of adolescent gambling, warning signs to look for, and practical tools to help protect and support the young people in your life.⁠
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Let’s work together to close the gap in awareness and ensure our youth have the guidance and resources they need to thrive.⁠
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🎁 Plus, attend for a chance to win an Amazon gift card!⁠
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🔗 Register today and be part of the conversation. (see Link in Bio to register)⁠
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Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: The High Stakes: Understanding and Parenting Problem Gambling in Youth. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.

02/13/2026

Love is in the air at NJ4S-Essex 💕🎤

We put our ears to the test with a fun Guess the Voices challenge for Valentine’s Day… and let’s just say, some of us were surprised! 👀😂

After the big reveals, Diane, our amazing Director, shared heartfelt words about each team member — reminding us that appreciation isn’t just for one day, it’s part of our culture every day. ❤️

At Family Connections NJ4S-Essex, we’re grateful for a team that leads with kindness, laughter, and heart.

Happy Valentine’s Day from all of us! 💌✨

02/11/2026

NJ4S-Essex now offers confidential Substance Use Assessments for students in grades 6–12.

Why it matters: early identification of challenges, guidance from Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LCADC), and connection to the right resources and supports. When students get help early, they’re better equipped to succeed in school—and in life.

For school-based referrals, please complete the application in Salesforce and include the request for a specialized assessment under “Detailed Reason for Application.”

Together, we can support healthier outcomes for our students. 💙

For any questions, please email infonj4sessex@familyconnectionsnj.org

02/02/2026

Youth mental health matters—today and every day.

On February 1, Family Connections NJ4S–Essex participated in Shiv’s Third Eye: Youth Mental Wellness Fair, connecting families with resources, conversations, and tools to support emotional well-being. Thank you to all who helped make this event a success!

01/27/2026

🚭 Clearing the Air: Protecting Teens Against the Dangers of Va**ng

The rise of va**ng among teens is a growing concern — and families don’t have to face it alone. Join Cori Hammond and Linda Richter for an informative and supportive evening focused on helping teens make healthier choices.

You’ll learn about:
• Why teens are more susceptible to risky behaviors like va**ng
• How va**ng impacts emotions, mood, and brain development
• Effective communication strategies to talk with your teen

🗓️ February 25, 2026
⏰ 5:30 PM
👉 Register here: https://bit.ly/4raxUCa
📲 Or scan the QR code

Join us and get a chance to win a free Amazon or ShopRite gift card!

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