Opportunity Project launches campaign to raise awareness of brain injuries

Opportunity Project, a unique program created by and for adults with brain injuries who are seeking the next step in their journey of recovery, launched its annual Brain Injury Awareness Month campaign Wednesday with a proclamation presentation in Millburn.

The campaign, which will run throughout March, aims to raise funds to support those with brain injuries, as well as raise awareness and knowledge about brain injury prevention.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 5 million Americans live with a brain injury-related condition.  Brain Injury Awareness Month acknowledges the causes and consequences of this common disability, and aims to raise funds to improve support, research, education and advocacy on behalf of individuals who experience a life-changing brain injury.

Millburn Mayor Annette Romano made the presentation at the Opportunity Project headquarters, which is located in Millburn.

The following events will be held in support of Brain Injury Awareness Month:

• 5 p.m. Thursday: A Bollywood Themed Free First Thursday Event will be held at the Montclair Art Museum. The event will feature music, live performances, art making, tours and more;
• 11 a.m. Friday: Opportunity Project officials will be at the Clubhouse in Millburn for a performance by the New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra, a nationally recognized leader in intergenerational excellence;
• Week of March 17-23: Opportunity Project is collaborating with Explore Millburn-Short Hills on a restaurant week. A portion of proceeds from specific restaurants will go to Opportunity Project;
• 1 p.m. March 22: A Bingo Bucks for Brain Injury fundraiser will be held at the Opportunity Project clubhouse;
• Throughout March: Wear Green or Blue Jeans Day: Organizations are invited to designate a day for their employees to wear green (the official color of brain injury awareness) or blue jeans in exchange for a donation to Opportunity Project. The Opportunity Project Speakers Bureau is also available to speak at your organization about the importance of brain injury prevention and share members’ inspirational stories about their journey of recovery.

Opportunity Project, which was founded in 1993, announced a partnership with Children’s Specialized Hospital, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, in 2019.