VMAC Community Outreach

VMAC sponsors and participates in several programs throughout the year in collaboration with the Verona Police, Library, Recreation, and Health Departments.

Fair in the Square is a community-wide event that VMAC supports by providing literature and making stress balls with children and adults alike. In this fun and interactive setting, members of VMAC and youth volunteers encourage people to “make good choices in life.” Information is also shared throughout the year on a variety of topics, including drug/alcohol prevention, making healthy choices for all ages, self-esteem and anti-bullying.

Family Night is a community-wide favorite activity which began in 2003 as a “Scheduled Night to be Free of Schedules” because “Dinner Makes A Difference.” With the support of the Board of Education, Town Council, Recreation Department and other community members, VMAC schedules a Family Night in March and October. As of 4pm on each Family Night, school-based assignments, meetings, and activities are suspended to preserve family time. Local restaurants offer discounts to families that elect to dine out. 
Presentations & Webinars are sponsored on various topics of interest to our community throughout the year. Past topics have included navigating childhood anxiety, internet safety, building self-esteem, mindfulness, awareness of substance use and abuse, and related laws. While many of these programs are focused on the needs of youth and their caregivers, VMAC is also proud to offer information and sessions to support Verona senior citizens and educators. These events are posted on our calendar and announced through social media outlets.
The Medication Drop-Off Box is located inside the Verona Police Station. The Box was provided by VMAC and Essex County ADAPT and is available to residents to safely dispose of unused or expired medication. In cooperation with the Verona Police, VMAC also coordinates activities around DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day in April and October which aims to create awareness of a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs. Activities include coordinating with police and rescue squad members to visit the Verona Senior Club meeting to collect medications and meet members of the community.

We welcome suggestions for future programs from the community to meet our evolving needs.