TRENTON, N.J. — Assemblywoman Aura Dunn has been recognized by Good Grief, a New Jersey-based nonprofit dedicated to grief support and education, with its Community Advocate Award. The accolade will be officially presented at Good Grief’s annual gala on October 25. Dunn has been a consistent advocate for mental health issues, making it a cornerstone of her legislative agenda.
“Advocacy is at the root of my purpose in public service,” said Dunn. “It’s a privilege to speak up for New Jerseyans in need and this recognition by Good Grief aligns with my legislative priorities to increase mental health services and reduce stigma.”
Last legislative session, Dunn successfully pushed for the enactment of Bill A3007, mandating that higher education institutions link students to mental health care services on campus. In the current legislative session, she has been active in sponsoring nearly a dozen bills aimed at expanding access to mental health services. Target populations include vulnerable groups such as youth, veterans, and underserved communities. Among her initiatives is a bill proposing a loan redemption program for mental health professionals who work with children and adolescents.
Dunn’s focus also extends to special programs for veterans to receive treatment for PTSD and brain injuries, as well as a tuition reimbursement program aimed at encouraging advanced practice nurses to serve in mental health care roles within New Jersey’s underserved areas.
“I am grateful for Good Grief’s efforts to bridge community gaps in mental health care,” Dunn added. “Together, we can make New Jersey a model for top-quality mental health care programs and accessibility.”