Wayne Alliance Invites Residents to Join the Fight for a Healthier, Stronger Community

The Wayne Alliance for the Prevention of Substance Abuse, a dedicated grassroots organization serving Wayne Township for over 30 years, is calling on residents to get involved as volunteers and help build a healthier future for our town.

Far more than a simple "don't do drugs" message, the Wayne Alliance addresses the root causes of substance misuse, including mental health challenges, physical health concerns, school-related stresses, loneliness, depression, and other underlying issues that can lead individuals to self-medicate with alcohol, tobacco, or other substances. By focusing on prevention through education, awareness, resources, and community support, the Alliance empowers children, young adults, seniors, and families to make positive, healthy choices.

The Wayne Alliance operates with strong support from Mayor Chris Vergano, who appoints the committee and has actively championed its mission, including hosting community forums on drug awareness. The group also partners closely with the Wayne Health Department, which provides essential meeting space and resources to facilitate our ongoing efforts.

As part of New Jersey's network of over 400 Municipal Alliances, the Wayne Alliance works collaboratively with local government, schools, law enforcement, nonprofits, faith communities, parents, youth, and concerned residents to identify local needs and implement evidence-based programs. These efforts create stronger social connections, reduce isolation, promote mental and emotional wellness, and foster resilience across all ages.

"Volunteering with the Wayne Alliance isn't just about preventing substance misuse. It's a powerful way to boost your own well-being," said Robbin Gulino, a longtime advocate and contact for the Alliance. "Research shows that community involvement like this reduces stress, combats loneliness, builds purpose, and enhances overall health. When you help others address root causes early, you're creating a ripple effect of positive change that strengthens our entire township, with the full backing of our Mayor and Health Department."

The Wayne Alliance hosts monthly public meetings on the third Wednesday of every month at noon in Health Room #2 at the Wayne Township Municipal Building (also home to the Wayne Health Department), located at 475 Valley Road, Wayne, NJ 07470. These open sessions welcome new ideas, presentations, and, most importantly, new volunteers from all walks of life. Refreshments are provided to make the gatherings welcoming and enjoyable!

Whether you're a parent, educator, senior, student, or simply a concerned neighbor, your voice and time can make a real difference. Join us in planning events, delivering educational programs, raising awareness, and providing resources that help Wayne stay "too smart to misuse vapes, drugs, alcohol, and tobacco."

For more information, to request a presentation, or to get involved, contact the Wayne Alliance at 973-694-1800 x3244 or reach out directly to Robbin Gulino at 862-686-3112. You can also visit the official page at waynetownship.com/boards-and-committees/wayne-alliance, follow us on Facebook at Wayne Alliance, or check our Instagram @waynealliancenj.

Together, with the support of Mayor Vergano, the Health Department, and our dedicated volunteers, let's keep Wayne healthy, connected, and thriving, one volunteer at a time.

About the Wayne Alliance The Wayne Alliance for the Prevention of Substance Abuse is a volunteer-driven Municipal Alliance under the Governor's Council on Substance Use Disorder. For more than three decades, it has served as Wayne's official coordinating body for substance misuse prevention, education, and awareness, working toward a drug, alcohol, and tobacco-free community.

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