FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 25, 2026

Contacts: Lisa Batitto, news@drugfreenj.org

Atlantic Health to Be Honored at Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s Angel of Hope Gala

MILLBURN, NJ — Atlantic Health will receive the Angel of Hope Award at the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey’s (PDFNJ) 32^nd annual Angel of Hope Gala on Wednesday, April 29 at the Liberty House in Jersey City. The recognition highlights Atlantic Health’s leadership in educating and safeguarding New Jersey residents from the opioid crisis through dedicated community support and public health initiatives.

“Atlantic Health has demonstrated a deep and ongoing commitment to addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges facing our state,” said Elaine Pozycki, PDFNJ Board Chair. “Through its leadership in patient care, community education, and partnerships that promote prevention and recovery, Atlantic Health continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of New Jersey families and communities.”

Atlantic Health is a leader in educating patients and clinicians on prescribing safe, non-opioid alternatives, while expanding access to treatment and recovery services through programs across its medical centers.

“Substance use disorder remains among the most challenging and stigmatized health conditions facing our state and nation,” said Saad Ehtisham, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlantic Health. “Our team is dedicated to helping individuals overcome this challenge through appropriate, high-quality treatment options supported by outpatient programs at our medical centers, educational initiatives, and cooperative action with local partners like Drug-Free New Jersey. We are grateful to be recognized for protecting and healing our friends and neighbors in the community.”

PDFNJ trustee Lawrence Cooper will also be honored with the Joseph (J.P.) Miele Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his decades of leadership and dedication supporting the organization’s mission to prevent substance use and strengthen communities across New Jersey.

Elaine and Steve Pozycki, both members of the PDFNJ Board of Trustees, will serve as gala chairs.

More information about the event and sponsorship opportunities can be found at www.drugfreenj.org/gala or by calling 973-275-7985.

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Best known for its statewide substance use prevention advertising campaign, the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey is a private not-for-profit coalition of professionals from the communications, corporate and government communities whose collective mission is to reduce demand for illicit drugs in New Jersey through media communication.  To date, more than $200 million in broadcast time and print space has been donated to the Partnership’s New Jersey campaign, making it the largest public service advertising campaign in New Jersey’s history. Since its inception, the Partnership has garnered 232 advertising and public relations awards from national, regional and statewide media organizations.