NewBridge Helps Get the Vote Out

Sample Election Teaches those with Mental Illness to Vote

Pompton Plains, NJ - October 8, 2009 - With the gubernatorial election drawing near, NewBridge Services, Inc., a community provider of premier health and education programs and services, in conjunction with the Morris and Passaic County Boards of Elections, helped those with mental illness flex their democratic muscles by holding trial election and voter registration education programs in Pompton Plains and Wayne, NJ. The free program included a presentation by the Morris and Passaic County Superintendents of Elections Office.

"The basic democratic right to chose those who govern us is a powerful privilege that should be exercised," said Robert L. Parker, Executive Director, NewBridge. "There are hundreds of thousands of people in New Jersey with mental illness and by ensuring that they are registered to vote, collectively they can be a significant force in the elections in New Jersey."

Residents from both Morris and Passaic county were on hand for the two programs, which taught those with mental illness how to register to vote, choose a political affiliation, select candidates and use a voting booth. Participants were then given a hands-on demonstration of a voting machine.

About NewBridge Services
Founded in 1963, NewBridge Services, Inc. is a nonprofit community organization providing innovative programs and education services in five focus areas: mental health, substance abuse, housing, youth programs and senior assistance. Whether guiding people as they cope with stress, grief, or substance abuse, or providing advice to those with parenting, relationship or caregiving challenges, NewBridge helps people bring balance to their lives. For more information call 973-839-2520 or click here.