Community Corner

West Caldwell Resident Named Executive Director Of Hession Foundation

Doug Olson will be leading the group is it looks to combat substance and alcohol abuse across the state.

SNOW Partners recently announced the appointment of Doug Olson as the first executive director for The Hession Foundation.
SNOW Partners recently announced the appointment of Doug Olson as the first executive director for The Hession Foundation. (Photo courtesy of SNOW Partners)

WEST CALDWELL, NJ — SNOW Partners recently announced the appointment of Doug Olson as the first executive director for The Hession Foundation.

Olson, who lives in West Caldwell, is a longtime industry veteran and brings 30 years of experience to the foundation.

In this newly created role, Olson will lead the strategic growth of the foundation and oversee its daily operations as it strives to serve at-risk youth in combating the dangers of substance abuse and addiction.

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During his career, Olson has led programs and fundraising campaigns at organizations like Children's Specialized Hospital Foundation (Mountainside), Alzheimer's Association Greater NJ (Denville), The Valerie Fund for Children with Cancer & Blood Disorders (Maplewood), and Challenged Athletes Foundation, the San Diego-based national organization helping people with physical disabilities access sports.

“The mission of the Hession Foundation is very personal for me,” Olson said.

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“I have seen first-hand family members battle alcohol and drug abuse, and know how devastating that can be,” Olson added.

The Hession Foundation was founded in 2021 by SNOW Partners, the owner and operator of Mountain Creek Resort in Vernon and BIG Snow in the American Dream Mall. It was named in honor of Joe and Patrick Hession’s father, Joseph P. Hession. A recovering alcoholic, who has been sober for the last 47 years, Joseph P. Hession spent his career as a drug and alcohol counselor and was recognized as the New York State Counselor of the year in 2000.

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