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
NewBridge Services, Inc., a non-profit community organization founded in 1963, provides innovative mental health, substance abuse, housing, children’s and senior services and education programs. Whether dealing with stress, grief, or substance abuse or in need of parenting, relationship or caregiving advice, NewBridge offers counseling programs, educational forums and life-enriching services to help people bring balance to their lives. For more information call 973-686-2200 or click here.