As The Thomas Joseph Franzese Foundation evolves, we continue to emphasize the importance of awareness of the disease of addiction through education, stressing prevention. Unfortunately, this epidemic continues to spread and there is great need for treatment and support for those who are afflicted. once treatment is complete there is still a need for ongoing support. it is this need that leads us to share our enthusiasm for a new program being offered at Ramapo College of New Jersey. our Foundation looks forward to partnering with and supporting this program.
Thomas Joseph Franzese Foundation
Mission Statement
About Thomas Joseph Franzese
TJ was a 2010 Graduate of Don Bosco Prep in Ramsey, New Jersey. He attended Union College in Schenectady, New York until 2014 and was currently attending Ramapo College in Mahwah, New Jersey.
While at Don Bosco, TJ Franzese played on the 2009 National Championship Football Team under the leadership of the legendary high school coach Greg Toal, where he was a running back/slot back. He also played the same position on the 2008 and 2009 State Championship Football Teams. TJ also played 4 years of baseball at Don Bosco and was an outfielder. During his sophomore year, Don Bosco’s baseball team was ranked #2 in the country. While at Union College, TJ was Liberty League All league Running Back three years in a row (2011, 2012, and 2013).
RAMAPO COLLEGE
ROADRUNNER COLLEGIATE RECOVERY PROGRAM
Ramapo College of New Jersey makes a commitment to each of its students to prepare them to be successful leaders in a changing world. The College can now further that commitment by providing a safe and healthy environment for students wishing to pursue their education without sacrificing their recovery efforts. With support from a State grant for $999,408.00, Ramapo will provide Recovery Housing for up to 10 students recovering from drug and/or alcohol addiction. The comprehensive program will offer structure, direction, and self-awareness while students work to maintain a balance between abstinence, academics, and healthy living.
Designated a stigma-free campus, significant effort will be made to reduce the stigma around the disease of addiction. The Program will include screening and intervention, access to confidential psychological and addiction counseling services, and substance-free activities. Additional support programs will be Mentoring, Academic Support, Relapse Prevention, Seminars, and Support Groups. As of February 2019, recruiting to identify students to participate has begun. The Health and Counseling staff is also recruiting first “Recovery Allies”, volunteers on campus to act as advocates for the students in the program and “Recovery Mentors,” who will be responsible for providing constructive, positive relationships with these students. With training and workshops planned for this spring, the goal is for this program to be up and running in Fall 2019.
The Thomas Joseph Franzese Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit tax exempt charitable organization. Our tax ID number is 82-1901184.