Brick High School Counselor To Be Honored At Polar Plunge

BRICK, NJ — A Brick Township Schools counselor is set to be honored for her work in drug prevention education by the Tigger Stavola Foundation.

Lori Roland, the student assistance coordinator at Brick Township High School, is to be honored at the Freeze Addiction Polar Plunge set for March 22, the foundation said.

The Freeze Addiction Polar Plunge, now in its seventh year, aims to raise awareness about the importance of drug prevention education for middle and high school students. Participants in the event receive a pre-plunge breakfast, a motivational speaker presentation, and opportunities to win raffle prizes.

In 2025 about 600 students from various area schools, athletic teams, academic clubs, and service groups attended the plunge, the foundation said. Students who participate also earn volunteer hours.

"Lori has been helping adolescents with addiction challenges for nearly 30 years, so it is fitting to honor her at this youth-oriented event," said Cheryl Stavola, the foundation's director of school partnerships, adding she "empowers her clients to be the best versions of themselves and inspires positive role models throughout our community."

"Our Polar Plunge is always a fun opportunity for kids to learn more about natural highs," said Lisa Stavola founder of the Tigger Stavola Foundation, which she started after losing her 25-year-old son, Tigger, to an accidental overdose.

"Our mission to fight addiction, spread awareness and save lives is making waves," Stavola said, noting new legislation coming in New Jersey to mandate age-appropriate drug prevention education at middle schools and high schools.

Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for the Freeze Addiction Polar Plunge, which will be held at the Edgewater Beach & Cabana Club, 1465 Ocean Ave., Sea Bright.

There is still time to sign up, donate or sponsor; more information is available online.

Tigger Stavola was known for his kind heart, loving soul and for always helping the underdog, the foundation says. He grew up and went to school on the Jersey Shore and was adored by many friends and family.

The foundation works with schools in 18 counties across New Jersey providing free educational resources, including motivational speakers, about the dangers of substance use. The foundation also partners with Hackensack Meridian Carrier Clinic to provide 24/7 ad.diction navigation services. Visit tiggerstavolafoundation.org for more information.