The Clergy Advisory Committee is a faith-based committee, representative of faith communities within Monmouth County and a sub-committee of the Prevention Coalition of Monmouth County. Members of the Prevention First Clergy Advisory Committee know the importance of broad-based participation throughout any community surrounding drug prevention. Various faith groups join hands to prevent substance abuse and reduce at-risk behaviors among youth and adults. The Committee brings together key individuals who reflect a variety of faith backgrounds.

The purpose of the Clergy Advisory Committee is to:

• educate Committee members about the disease of addiction, develop an awareness of Prevention First’s programs in Monmouth County and have members share prevention messages in their faith circle of influence;
  
  
• help the Board of Trustees and staff of Prevention First to reach a broader constituency consising of a fair representation of various faiths and faith-based organizations;
  
  
• serve as advocates for 'prevention messages' to each congregation;
  
  
• provide feedback to Prevention First from members' congregations about related topics;
  
  
• serve as advocates for 'prevention messages' to congregations;
  
  
• provide a means for involving people who are willing to give assistance but who have limited time;
  
  
• build a corps of outside, experienced experts whose interest and support are important to the implementation of Prevention First’s mission.

The Clergy Advisory Committee shall have no more than 20 members. The executive director will appoint a board member to act as liaison and co-chair of the committee.

Responsibilities of membership include:

• attend two meetings a year (meetings are held quarterly);
  
  
• be available for consultation to the staff as part of program planning;
  
  
• write or sign letters endorsing Prevention First programs and services when requested.

Current members include:

Allen Presbyterian Church, Tinton Falls
Allentown UMC
Ballard UMC, Asbury Park
Cathedral International, Asbury Park
The Church of the Master, United Methodist
First UMC, Oakhurst
First UMC, Asbury Park
Freehold Church of God
Freehold Jewish Center
Hope Lutheran Church, Freehold
Project for Intercultural Development, Atlantic Highlands
St. Anselm’s Roman Catholic Church, Wayside

CONTACT

Barbara Sprechman
Director of Community Services
732.663.1800 ext. 211