Township of Franklin, NJ
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Special Projects
The Franklin Township Special Projects Department develops and oversees unique initiatives for the benefit of the Franklin community. These efforts often extend beyond routine operations and involve collaborations with government officials, Township departments, community leaders, local businesses, boards and commissions, and more. Projects are diverse in nature encompassing health and wellness initiatives, social services, community outreach, cultural arts and beyond. The Special Projects Department drives innovation, addresses specific challenges, and capitalizes on opportunities to ensure Franklin Township continues to be a diverse and dynamic community for our current and future residents.
Ongoing Township Special Projects
Annual Township Special Projects Events
Restaurant Week:
Franklin Township Restaurant Week is a week-long event where local restaurants offer menu specials such as prix fixe menus, percentage discounts (10% and above), free appetizers/desserts, drink specials, and more!
Art Show:
Franklin Township will host the "Not Quite Wine & Cheese Art Opening" in the fall at the Franklin Township Municipal Building featuring Franklin Township artists.
Healthy Franklin
Healthy Franklin is a groundbreaking Township health initiative aimed at creating a healthier community. At its core lies several health-based programs. The Mayor's Wellness Campaign is dedicated to healthier lifestyles, promoting physical activity, nutritious eating habits, and mental well-being for all Franklinites. The Stigma-Free Council works tirelessly to eradicate the barriers surrounding mental health and substance use disorder, fostering an environment of acceptance and support for all individuals. Lastly, the For the Well of It Local Health Assessment and Action Plan is a comprehensive report, completed in 2023, outlining health needs and access, as reported by Franklinites, aimed at building health equity.
Together, these pillars form the Healthy Franklin initiative, ensuring that every member of the community has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Join us in building a healthier, happier Franklin—one step, one initiative at a time.
Stigma-Free Council presents Our Turn to Talk
A Powerful Documentary & Discussion on Teen Mental Health
Franklin Township Stigma-Free Council presents Our Turn to Talk, a Powerful Documentary & Discussion on Teen Mental Health
Date: Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: Franklin Township Community Senior Center, 505 DeMott Lane, Somerset
The Franklin Township Stigma-Free Council invites teens and adults to a special evening for Our Turn to Talk —an eye-opening documentary screening and open discussion focused on mental health, stigma, and the real challenges teens face today. The event, part of the Franklin Township Mayor's Wellness Campaign, offers a space for sharing and understanding where everyone’s voice matters. The discussion will be led by Sheila Gillin, MSS, LCSW, from Minding Your Mind, an organization dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding mental health issues through education and awareness.
From rising rates of anxiety and depression to the impacts of social media, racism, and the pandemic, mental health concerns amongst young people are more pressing than ever. In Our Turn to Talk, young people take center stage, courageously sharing stories of struggle and resilience. Through this film and the conversation to follow, we’ll explore how storytelling can foster connection and understanding, helping to break the stigma around mental health.
Why Attend?
- Be Inspired by Peer Stories: Teens share real-life experiences, offering insight into their struggles and triumphs over mental health challenges.
- Contribute to a Stigma-Free Community: Help make Franklin Township a place where mental health issues are discussed openly and compassionately.
- Participate in a Safe, Supportive Discussion: Moderated by mental health professional Sheila Gillin, the conversation is a chance to express yourself and learn from others in a judgment-free environment.
- Refreshments Provided: Enjoy light refreshments as you take part in this empowering event.
How to Register:
While pre-registration is not required, it is strongly encouraged. Simply email us at stigmafree@franklinnj.gov with your name, email, phone number, and age/grade if you’re a student. Adults, please send your name, email, phone number, and include “Adult” in your message.
The Franklin Township Stigma-Free Council is dedicated to creating a community of understanding by fighting fight mental health stigma and substance use disorder stigma through events, public awareness campaigns, education, advocacy, and much more. The Stigma-Free Council operates under the umbrella of the Franklin Township Mayor's Wellness Campaign which is committed to improving overall health and wellness for all Franklinites. Together, we can create a community of understanding, compassion, and wellness.
For more information about Our Turn to Talk, the Franklin Township Stigma-Free Council or the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, please contact Saffie Kallon or Phyllis Beals at stigmafree@franklinnj.gov.