Second Chances with Jim McGreevey #27 - Dr. Pamela Valera

Thank you, Mary Ellen Clyne, Ph.D. President and Chief Executive Officer at Clara Maass Medical Center. Clara Maass Medical Center Seton Hall University, for sharing healthcare views as to diagnostics & treatment of reentry participants at LeFrak Wellness Center.

Pamela Valera, PhD, MSW, ACSW, NCTTP, Assistant Professor Rutgers, serves with Essex Correctional Task Force. Dr. Valera co-authored Medical Subcommittee Report with Dr. Pernell, focusing upon improving medical & behavioral diagnostics and treatment.

Reverend Raúl Ruiz, President, New Jersey Latino Pastors & Ministries, advocates for increased training & employment opportunities, medical care, & addiction treatment for court-involved persons. Pastor Ruiz is thoughtful advocate in support of spirituality in recovery.

Dr. Chris Pernell, Princeton, Duke Medical, Columbia Public Health, physician & public health expert, has provided invaluable guidance & direction for the Essex CCFC Task Force during Covid-19; national leader for medical & behavioral health.

Dr. Adam Sagot of Hackensack Meridian Health is an accomplished psychiatrist with a long history of service to the veterans community. He knows veteran's trauma. NJRC is blessed to work with him, medical & behavioral experts, to provide program participants with best possible healthcare.

Craig Cohen is a premier trainer of Apple technologies, who trained NJRC program participants with introductory Apple technology and applications. A major strength of Apple is the "thinking" behind the design and implementation of Apple technology. Persons can grow in their understanding of the applications and uses of Apple devices and technology to be of greater use in their workplace and at home. NJRC is deeply indebted to Mr. Cohen for having crossed the Hudson river from Brooklyn to teach and educate our program participants.

Charles Little has struggled with court involvement and New Jersey prison. The miracle of Charles' faith is his commitment to "do the next right thing." Charles has rebuilt his life, secured employment, received promotions, been downsized, & got back up again. He is a NJRC Ambassador!

Keisha Williams is a gifted young woman, who is blessed with a tremendous and loving family, a great faith, and a desire to serve. Keisha's family has been supportive throughout her journey, a source of strength. Keisha's witness and her personal love of service is a gift.

The U.S. Marines played a critical role in cleaning up the damage from the 2011 tsunami and nuclear accident and were exposed to substantial radiation. Darren Chambers was a local New Jersey Marine, who served this nation and now has cancer due to his exposure to radiation from over 10 years ago. Darren received an Other-Than-Honorable (OTH) discharge and, working with NJRC, he is appealing his discharge classification while he struggles to finance his cancer treatment.

Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver has served in municipal government, county government, the State Legislature, and now Executive Branch. The Lt. Governor has always had a sense of compassion and commitment to those needing a Second Chance. As Commissioner of DCA during the pandemic, she lifted housing restrictions to enable NJRC to house, care, and feed persons in houses of worship.