Somerset County Board of Freeholders
Somerset County youth in grades 7 to 12 are invited to enjoy an evening planned by their peers and adults at which there are no weapons, alcohol, drugs or arguments and where they can party, play and learn.
This year’s “Safe Night’ program titled “Hollywood” will be held Saturday, April 18, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Somerville High School, located at 222 Davenport St. Participants are encouraged to dress like their favorite movie star.
The registration deadline is April 9. Admission is $5 for advance registration and $7 at the door. Admission includes refreshments and door prizes. Seating is limited to the first 200 participants.
"The ‘Safe Night’ program is more than a one-night event. It’s an experience that youth will remember for many years to come because of the life-long leadership, team building and character-building skills they will learn,” said Freeholder Patricia Walsh, human services liaison.
“This is the 10th year the county is hosting a ‘Safe Night’ program, which brings youth together to openly discuss important and relevant topics such as resolving conflicts peacefully, managing emotions and preventing violence, in a fun-filled, safe environment,” she said.
The evening will begin with a welcome by Freeholder Peter S. Palmer, Youth Council liaison, and a legislative address by Sen. Christopher “Kip” Bateman.
Afterward, teens will experience firsthand what it feels like to drive while drunk by wearing Fatal Vision simulator goggles.
Youth from S.T.O.P. (Students Tackling Ordinary Problems) will provide a dramatic interpretation addressing teen problems.
Students also will participate in basketball and Nerf dodgeball. The evening will end with a dance, games and door prizes.
First time this year, a bake sale will be held for Relay for Life, to raise money for the American Cancer Society
The “Safe Night” program is presented by the Somerset County Youth Council, Somerset Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency, Somerset County REBEL, Somerville High School, Somerville High School REBEL and Middle Earth.
“Safe Night” collaborators and co-sponsors include the Somerset County Board of Freeholders, Somerset County Department of Human Services, Somerset County Youth Council, Somerset Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency, Somerset County REBEL, Somerville High School, Somerville High School REBEL and Middle Earth.
The “Safe Night” program was begun by former police officer Olusegun “Olu” Sijuwade through the City of Milwaukee Health Department in 1994.
To register or for information about the “Safe Night” program, contact Sarah Murchison of the Somerset County Department of Human Services at 908-704-6307 or [email protected].
