Big moves: NENDATF transitions to 501(c)(3) status as the Color Run, its biggest fundraiser, approaches

The Northport/East Northport Community Drug and Alcohol Task Force (NENDATF) is in the final stages of its next big step, announcing recently its transition to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The move marks a new chapter in its commitment to preventing and combating youth substance use, providing education for mental health, and promoting healthy lifestyles. Under the leadership of Executive Director Linda Oristano, NENDATF is poised to expand its outreach and enhance its programs aimed at educating young people about the dangers of drug and alcohol misuse.

Since its inception, NENDATF leadership has worked tirelessly to prevent and reduce the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol among local youth by fostering awareness and providing resources to children, parents, and community members. The transition to a 501(c)(3) status will enable the organization to increase its fundraising capabilities, allowing for the implementation of more comprehensive educational and prevention programs and support services for youth and their families, according to a recently released press release. 

Oristano, who has been a driving force behind NENDATF’s initiatives, brings over 25 years of experience in the fields of social services, community service, and health care. She has acquired expertise in counseling, training, advocating, mentoring, and educating individuals in various settings. Her vision for the organization includes expanding partnerships with schools, local governments, faith-based organizations, health professionals, and community organizations to create a network of support for young people. 

Oristano’s hard work securing the organization’s new status coincides with the planning of the NENDATF’s annual Color Run, a unique and vibrant event that combines the elements of a fun run with a literal burst of color, fun, and community spirit. It is also the group’s biggest fundraiser of the year. 

Participants in the Color Run, slated for Saturday, October 26, start the race dressed in white t-shirts (provided by the NENDATF) symbolizing a blank canvas, Oristano said. As they make their way through the course, they are showered with brightly colored powders at various color stations along the route.

Stations along the one-mile course are staffed by volunteers who toss or spray participants with non-toxic, biodegradable colored powder made of cornstarch, creating a fun and interactive experience for runners and walkers of all ages.

“The Color Run is not a competitive race; it is all about having fun, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and fostering a sense of community,” Oristano said. It is common to see families, friends and strangers cheering each other on along the course.

The event culminates with a “finish festival,” where participants can celebrate their accomplishments in an afterparty complete with music, a photo booth, and lawn games.

This year’s Color Run is scheduled for Saturday, October 26, from 9am to 12pm (check-in begins at 8am) at Northport Middle School. For more information, or to register, visit www.ndatf.org. Ways to get involved via volunteer opportunities or at future events, including at the Color Run, can also be found on the site.