About Empower Somerset

Empower Somerset is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that has been serving as a critical community resource for five decades. With headquarters located in downtown Somerville, across from the train station, we proudly extend our services throughout central NJ and the entire state. We believe that education is a powerful tool for empowerment. Since 1974, Empower has been a leading provider of evidence-based prevention education, including comprehensive substance use, mental health awareness, sexual health education programs, and life skills training, in schools and community settings across New Jersey.

Empowering youth, families, adults, and veterans to make informed decisions and improve their overall well-being.

Our Mission

We empower individuals and families to make positive lifestyle choices by promoting healthy, drug-free communities through education, collaboration, and connections to resources.

Our Story

Empower Somerset was established in February of 1974 as the Somerset Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency with a focus on preventing substance misuse and providing information and referrals to those in need of treatment. In 2010, the agency name was changed to more accurately reflect our approach to prevention through building protective factors that enhance wellness. In 2012, the agency established the Pioneer Family Success Center, a community gathering place that connects families to helpful resources and brings families together through free events, programs & local activities.

Play Video

Meet Our Team

Our Staff

The Board

Youth Advisory Board

Our History

From Humble Beginnings

Our Beginning

Empower Somerset began as the Somerset Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency with a focus on preventing substance misuse and providing information and referrals to those in need of treatment

1974

Choke on Smoke

Launched a computer program called “Choke on Smoke” that was cutting edge for its time. Completely developed by Empower staff, it included interactive games, and was sold in prevention catalogs on CD-ROMS.

1995

Relocation

Relocated offices to Downtown Somerville from the hospital campus.

1996

A New Name

Somerset Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependency officially changed names to Empower Somerset, which more accurately reflected our approach to prevention through building protective factors that enhance wellness.

2009

Pioneer Family Success Center

Established the Pioneer Family Success Center, a community gathering place that connects families to helpful resources and brings families together through free events, programs and local activities.

2012

Safe Communities Coalition

Established the Safe Communities Coalition

2013

School Transitions

The Adolescent School Health Initiative transitioned to Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC)

2015

Banned Flavored E-Cigs for Youth

Youth Advisory Board Student Leaders testified at a NJ Department of Health public health hearing in Trenton, NJ on encouraging a ban on flavored e-cigs products that appeal to youth.

2019

Mental Health Awareness

Empower Somerset receives the Mental Health Awareness and Training (MHAT) grant. Empower Somerset trains over 300 individuals in Mental Health First Aid.

2019

Teen Pregnancy and STI Prevention

Empower Somerset expands our prevention efforts into teen pregnancy and STI prevention. Over 270 high school students are trained in Reducing the Risk and over 100 parents are trained in Teen Speak.

2021

Youth Suicide Prevention

Empower Somerset becomes the statewide coordinator for the Lifelines Suicide Prevention and Response Program.

2022

Workforce Innovation & Opportunity

Empower Somerset became the One-Stop Operator for the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board serving Hunterdon and Somerset counties.

2023

A New Beginning

Introduced a new brand, new logo, new colors, and new website to better reach our audience.

2024