Youth to hear offenders on drug, alcohol abuse

South River Parks and Recreation will host a Project P.R.I.D.E. presentation at 9:30 a.m. on Aug. 1 in the cafetorium at South River Middle School, 3 Montgomery St.

The event, presented by the New Jersey Department of Corrections, will bring minimum-custody offenders from a state-correctional facility to talk about their personal experiences with drugs and alcohol. A moderator will lead the offenders' candid discussion while also providing additional information about the Department of Corrections and replying to questions from the audience. While they are in the community, the offenders are at all times under the direct supervision of senior corrections officers.

The aim of Project P.R.I.D.E. is for youth to hear firsthand about the results that alcohol and drug abuse have on a person's life and to then consider the consequences when faced with making personal choices.

The event is open to all individuals fifth grade and above. Parents also are welcome. Residents of all towns are invited. For more information, call the recreation office at (732) 254-4412.