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Each year the Council recognizes Volunteers of the Year for exemplary service to the State's Alliance to Prevent Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Program. The grassroots network of Alliances and its volunteers are more critical than ever in helping to communicate and execute the systems necessary to evoke environmental change in communities across New Jersey.

Their voice, energy, and commitment are powerful and necessary as we undertake the critical work of the Council and continue to demonstrate that "It Doesn't Get More Local", as reflected in our statewide Municipal Alliance logo.

2023 Volunteer of the Year Awards

It was an honor to recognize these volunteers at our 2023 Volunteer of the Year Awards ceremony at the December 12th GCADA meeting. It was a beautiful and inspiring virtual event that celebrated the extraordinary passion and dedication of the 2023 honorees.

W. Cary Edwards State Volunteer Award

2023 W. Cary Edwards Statewide Volunteer of the Year
Detective Patrick D'Onofrio
Old Bridge Municipal Alliance
Middlesex County

Detective Patrick D’Onofrio has been an active member of the Old Bridge Municipal Alliance for 21 years and an Old Bridge Community Policing Officer for 26 years. Det. D’Onofrio has taught DARE and LEAD for 21 years, and he recently completed the LEAD Advanced Instructor training. Det. D’Onofrio oversees drug education programs for all fifth graders in thirteen schools in Old Bridge. He organizes all classes and works with the school system and other Community Policing Officers. Det. D’Onofrio is the primary instructor in seven schools. Over 650 students in Old Bridge take the LEAD course each year, and through presentations in K-4 grades on various topics, instructors have contact with 3,900 elementary students each school year.

In collaboration with the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey, Det. D’Onofrio gives presentations in the middle schools on internet safety, vaping and marijuana. He also presents at community and parent meetings. Det. D’Onofrio follows up on every overdose incident in Old Bridge. He encourages individuals to meet with Recovery Coaches and he outlines all services that are available during his outreach. In April and October, Det. D’Onofrio hosts two National Medicine Take Back Collections in Old Bridge. This is in addition to presentations and take back events at senior residences as well as promoting use of the drop box that is permanently installed in the Police Station. Det. D’Onofrio’s unwavering commitment to the health and wellbeing of the Old Bridge community makes him a deserving recipient of the 2023 W. Cary Edwards Statewide Volunteer of the Year Award.

2023 VOY Awards Photos

2023 Ceremony Viewing Link