The New Jersey ACES Collaborative1 is committed to pursuing a standard of excellence in the engagement, partnering, and servicing of New Jersey residents and communities. This commitment demands we continuously review and assess the unique and comprehensive ways we provide that service. In 2019, the Collaborative released Adverse Childhood Experiences: Opportunities to Prevent, Protect Against, and Heal from the Effects of ACEs in New Jersey. This report identified five areas of opportunities for further investigation and action which include: supporting parents and caregivers, providing training and professional development in trauma-informed care, promoting community awareness of ACEs, advancing policies and practices that help children and families thrive, and collecting, analyzing and sharing data and findings from research and practice. 2
In alignment with the findings in the ACEs report and the state's key initiatives of social justice, strength, family support, and innovation, the New Jersey Statewide ACEs Action Plan was released by the Department of Children and Families on February 4, 2021, as a framework inspired and guided by the community of people most impacted by ACEs. As implementation of the plan began, a complex question was raised: Should New Jersey conduct ACE’s screenings? This question warrants a thorough evaluation of the origin, intent, and expected outcomes of the original ACEs study and ACEs questionnaire. Moreover, there is a fundamental responsibility to evaluate New Jersey’s position alongside the initiatives set forth by the administration, the goals of our community, and the statewide ACEs Action Plan.
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