HANOVER TOWNSHIP — A night centered on community connection, youth engagement, and public safety is returning to Morris County late winter as the NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices hosts its Annual Law Enforcement Night on Thursday, March 6, at Mennen Sports Arena.
Open to families throughout Morris County, the event begins at 7:00 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. It is supported by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office, the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, and a coalition of local leaders. Supporting the event are Morris County Sheriff James Gannon; Hanover Township Mayor Thomas “Ace” Gallagher; East Hanover Mayor Joseph Pannullo; Florham Park Mayor Mark Taylor; Morris Plains Mayor Jason C. Karr; Morristown Mayor Tim Dougherty; and Morris Township Mayor Donna J. Guariglia, along with the 200 Club of Morris County.
Law Enforcement Night brings together police departments and first responders from across New Jersey in a welcoming, interactive setting designed for kids and teens. Rather than encountering law enforcement only during emergencies or difficult moments, families are invited to meet officers during an evening focused on positive interaction and community engagement.
Hosted by the NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices, the event reflects the organization’s long-standing mission to promote substance-free activities and to strengthen confidence and self-esteem among young people. Coalition leaders emphasize that these qualities play an important role in helping youth make healthy decisions and resist peer pressure related to drug and alcohol use.
Throughout the evening, attendees will be able to explore a wide range of law enforcement and emergency response equipment, including ambulances, specialty vehicles, and the Morris County Hope Van. Children will have the opportunity to step inside vehicles, try on gear, and speak directly with officers about their work and their role in the community.
Organizers note that the experience often sparks meaningful conversations and, in some cases, introduces young people to potential career paths in law enforcement and public safety.
The event will take place at Mennen Sports Arena, 161 East Hanover Avenue in Morristown.
For more information, contact Michele Sylvin, Director of Communications for the NJ Coalition for Education and Positive Choices, at [email protected].
