Daily Record
May 13, 2006
NewBridge Clinician Honored for His Work
PEQUANNOCK– Jack Muzikowski, director of residential services at NewBridge Services, recently received the 2006 New Jersey Association of Mental Health Agencies’ (NJAMHA) Courage & Compassion Award for Outstanding Commitment.
The competition was fierce for this statewide award, which was presented to Muzikowski in the presence of New Jersey’s mental health leaders, colleagues, and his wife, Jan, during NJAMHA’s annual conference May 3 at the Forsgate Country Club in Monroe Township.
Known within mental health services as a professional who "takes on the tough cases," Muzikowski has made a career of seeing the potential in people and trying to help them achieve a better life.
He once argued that one particular man living at Greystone Psychiatric Hospital could thrive within the community if he was given the opportunity to indulge in his favorite pastime—golf—once in a while. Years later, the man has fulfilled Muzikowski’s optimistic predictions and is a productive member of society—and a golfer.
"Jack is a shining example of the caliber of clinical professionals at NewBridge who have dedicated their careers to helping persons with mental illness," said Robert L. Parker, executive director at NewBridge. "He sees the potential, he sees the worth, of those with the most chronic mental issues. And he’s spent his career helping them to find a better quality of life."
In addition to his ability to see the best in people, this father of two teenage children is also known for his wit among colleagues.
During his speech at the awards ceremony, Muzikowski combined his trademark humility and humor into a speech opening that took a twist on a popular commercial.
"Parkway and turnpike tolls to get to the dinner, $2.35. Tie, on sale at discount for the occasion, $4.00. Razor blades to make face presentable, $5.29. Receiving recognition that you may have actually helped someone at one time or another, priceless," he said.
Even though he makes light of his tremendous accomplishments, those he have helped past and present, truly believe that Muzikowski has changed their lives.
One man, once homeless, now works as an apartment manager and counselor, and credits Muzikowski’s belief in him for giving him hope for the first time in 15 years.
NewBridge Services, a nonprofit community organization founded in 1963, provides mental health, substance abuse, housing, children’s and senior services and education programs.
For more information call 973-839-2520.
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