Community Corner

Morris County Offers Parent-Youth Summit to Address Substance Abuse and Bullying

One-man show "John Morello's Dirt" comes to Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph Tuesday.

A parent-youth summit, “John Morello’s Dirt,” will be held Tuesday, Nov. 19 at Meadow Wood Manor in Randolph.


The summit, sponsored by the Morris County Department of Human Services, is designed to enlighten and empower youth, parents, law enforcement officials, educators, helping professionals and community members about substance abuse, bullying and life choices, said Stephen Nebesni, the department’s Municipal Alliance Coordinator.

Nebesni said “John Morello’s Dirt” is a one-man show featuring many characters, all portrayed by actor and comedian John Morello, a self-described survivor of a high-risk childhood who witnessed many of his friends and family members become victims of destructive decisions and wrestle with the consequences.

Morello created “Dirt” as a response to those struggles as well as to the problems experienced by his students while he worked as a teacher in a treatment center. “Dirt” addresses the core reasons for substance abuse, such as self-esteem and depression, and audience members are sure to recognize someone they know or can relate to among the show’s characters, who speak honestly about their experiences, Nebesni said. 

The summit is free and a light dinner will be provided beginning at 5:30 p.m. The evening will also feature service provider information tables and a question and answer period. 

With seating limited and on a first come, first serve basis, pre-registration is required. The event takes place next Tuesday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Meadow Wood Manor on Route 10 in Randolph. To register or to obtain more information, call 866-782-5273.

The program is supported by the Morris County Board of Chosen Freeholders; the Mental Health Substance Abuse Advisory Board; the County Alliance Steering Subcommittee; the Municipal Alliances of Morris County; the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse; the Community Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Morris, an initiative of Morris County Prevention is Key; and Saint Clare’s Health System.


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