In 1983, the organization created NewBridge Jobs Plus, a free alternative education program for young adults from Morris, Sussex and Warren counties who struggled in traditional high schools. The program has since helped well over 1,000 young adults earn their high school diploma, prepare for college and technical schools and get on the path to a career. NewBridge Jobs Plus garnered national recognition in 2012 when it was featured on the CBS Evening News.
A community tragedy in 1984 led to another NewBridge initiative. A school nurse contacted NewBridge after an eighth grader committed suicide. NewBridge put together a suicide prevention program for schools that is still in high demand today. NewBridge went on to develop an array of school programs geared to build resiliency in children and adolescents, including an anti-bullying program. Throughout the school year, NewBridge teaches students skills to safely navigate their world and make positive choices on the path to adulthood.
At the other end of the age spectrum, NewBridge developed services to help seniors maximize their independence. In 1987, it created NewBridge Senior Assistance for Independent Living (SAIL), a free program that links residents of Passaic and Morris counties age 60 and over with community services to help them remain in their homes. NewBridge SAIL, which helps 400-plus seniors each year, added respite services for caregivers in 1999 and hired an Advanced Practice Nurse in 2003 to provide at-home medical evaluations.
NewBridge@Home, launched in 2010, provides in-home counseling to homebound senior citizens and other adults who are unable to leave their homes.