County Coalition Gives Shining Star Award to Chronic Pain Chapter

The Newton Chapter of the American Chronic Pain Association is part of an extraordinarily strong prevention coalition in Sussex County that includes county government agencies and community volunteer associations to form The Coalition for Healthy & Safe Communities. The Center for Prevention and Counseling (CFPC) provides recovery support services and connection to other resources for individuals and families affected by substance use and addiction.

Due to COVID-19, all services at The Center for Prevention are being provided virtually through Telehealth Services with certified counselors. Following heed to these latest NJ guidelines, a valued coalition member was also doing the same in setting up a virtual presence. The American Chronic Pain Associate (ACPA) chapter cofacilitators Lester Zaleski and Teresa Belcher continued with the new normal way to maintain their 5 to 6 monthly in person meetings. Their answer to continue their round table gatherings was zoom meetings.

The determination of this group in the Coalition for Healthy & Safe Communities has earned them a monthly Shining Star Award to both individuals. It was presented to them by CFPC Specialist Ashley Brown. The qualities they found outstanding were stated as follows “attitude, interest and unending positive efforts towards solutions among all ages in our communities is commendable. The coalition is fortunate to call you a member and we hope this continues for many years to come!”

The growing virtual success of this chapter has made them change their name from the “Newton” to “Northwest New Jersey” Chronic Pain Chapter to extend their reach. Anyone in Chronic pain for over six months is welcomed to join them. They are looking to get additional publicity of their meetings through the coalition’s expansive network. Long term chronic pain warriors, interested in learning more, can send an email to Lester Zaleski ( lesterzaleski@embarqmail.com) for an email invitation to virtual weekly meetings on Tuesday’s 10:00AM to 12:00PM.