New Year's Eve Midnight Run to Honor, Benefit N.J. Law Enforcement

All across New Jersey, thousands of police officers will be working overnight on New Year’s Eve.

It’s Stephanie Samuels’ hope that some cops and their supporters will be getting a little exercise as well.

Samuels, a Freehold-based psychotherapist who works with New Jersey police officers, is honoring law enforcement with the Midnight 5K Walk/Run. The event is open to the public and kicks off on Dec. 31 at 11:59 p.m. on the Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk between Arnold Avenue and Ocean Avenue.

The proceeds will benefit CopLine, a 24-hour service providing active and retired law enforcement officers and their loved ones an outlet in times of distress. The confidential hotline is answered by retired law enforcement officers who volunteer their time to listen and provide assistance to officers and their families who face unique stressors.

Samuels, the founder of the 24-hour service, said CopLine provides the tools necessary to navigate difficult situations in their life. Its mission is to give cops and their families a confidential place to relieve stress that can build up and potentially lead to at-risk behavior, including suicide.

“We have chosen New Year’s Eve to remind us that police officers all over the country are working and not with their families,” Samuels said. “We honor them and all those that have worn the badge with respect and dignity by starting the New Year healthy, sober and safe.

“We remember that no matter how bad things are, there can be a new beginning.”

Here are the details and how to sign up:

• What: Midnight Run for the Call 2025 5k Run/1 Mile Walk
• When: Dec. 31, 11:59 p.m.
• Where: Point Pleasant Beach Boardwalk ( Arnold Avenue and Ocean Avenue) or virtually.
• About the race: The registration form can be found here. The fee to participate in the 5K run/walk in Point Pleasant is $55. The cost to participate in the virtual run is $75. All proceeds go to CopLine to fund training for peer listeners and software necessary for the hotline.

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