The free training will help first responders and citizens know what to do when they come into contact with an addict.
STAFFORD TWP. -- What should an officer say to a criminal who is clearly strung out on some type of drug or alcohol at a traffic stop?
What can a nurse or doctor say to encourage rehab to a patient suffering from addiction and is ready to go back out on the streets and continue the habit?
What's a lawyer supposed to do when their client is destined to repeat the same offenses again and again because they haven't gotten the help the need?
Addiction training will be held at the Stafford Township Arts Center to help first responders, nurses, doctors and lawyers understand what they can do to help people around them struggling with addiction. (Photo provided) "Knowing what to do in these situations, it can prevent crime and it can get someone help," said Greg Maurer. "It will create more success stories and prevent loss."
These are all things that 27-year-old Maurer wants to help doctors, lawyers, officers, and the general public understand and learn at an upcoming addiction training seminar for first responders.
Maurer says knowing these things and having the proper training will make all the difference for the lives of the addicted and the lives of the community. It's something he would know first hand as a recovering addict whose turned his life around.
Since overcoming his own addiction struggles, Maurer, a Woodbury resident, has made a mission out of giving back to the community and trying to make a difference where he can. With the help of outreach professionals, Maurer helped to launch "The Meeting" in West Deptford, a gathering of people dedicated to discussing those who lost their battle with addiction, recognizing those battling and to celebrate the freedoms recovery brings.
Maurer is a a nationally-certified drug/alcohol interventionist, and he's taking his knowledge, experiences and services throughout the area, including Ocean County when he makes a stop at the Stafford Township Arts Center.
"It's no secret that there's been a tremendous increase in heroin-related deaths, not just in Ocean County but throughout the state," said Brian Klimakowski, Undersheriff of Ocean County. "We're put together a lot of programs but the death toll is still rising."
Klimakowski believes this training for first responders will help people know the signs of opiate and drug abuse. Maurer agrees.
"We have a unique opportunity to get officers and officials the resources they need to change a life and handle things properly," said Maurer.
"With this kind of training everyone is in a position to help," he added.
The training will take place on Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The training is free and a catered lunch will be provided for all who attend.
Topics discussed at the training will include local resources, how to handle a family member in crisis, what do do after Narcan, and what not to do. The training will be lead by Dr. Cali Estes, a well known addiction and recovery coach, who will be bringing new concepts to help combat opiate abuse in New Jersey.
"Ocean County has seen its share of drug related deaths, overdoses and crimes," said Maurer. "I want everyone to be educated on what they can do. With the Ocean County Sheriff's Office backing this program, I know we can make a huge difference."
Caitlyn Stulpin may be reached at cstulpin@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @caitstulpin. Find NJ.com on Facebook.