Jersey Cares
The Volunteer Voice

Vol 5, Issue 6                          Be the change. Volunteer.                              June 2016
Warm up to June,  . 
Summer is just around the corner, and with the change in season comes new opportunities to volunteer. The Annual School Supply Drive is about to kick off, and whether you're a student or you're still cleaning up after the student in your life, you can support school-aged children across New Jersey when you donate supplies for children in low-income communities. And in the spirit of giving back to your neighbors around the state, you can Plant it Forward at any of our locations in Northern New Jersey. 

Interested in gaining a "beach volunteer body"? Develop your leadership skills and get active in New Jersey communities through the 10-week Summer Season of Service program, or become a Project Coordinator at a favorite project today. Contact Lucy Doyle, Programs Manager to learn how you can be the change and lead.
365 Days of Volunteering

Every day, we need you to make a change in our communities. 
Check out some of our favorite projects this month! 
 
Plant it Forward in Clifton this June! Volunteer at this agricultural gem located right off major highways and in the shadow of a major metropolis. Take in the scenic views while you plant and grow with the produce around you! This is a learning opportunity for anyone with little to no experience in gardening, as well as the perfect project with someone honing their green thumb.

This Wednesday project alternates between morning and late afternoon shifts, so find a time that's perfect for you. Sign up today!

You can also Plant it Forward at any of these other locations: 
Annual Events
Jersey Cares Day Success Stories

Thank you to all of our volunteers who made Jersey Cares Day 2016 a huge success! We filled nearly all of our 1500 volunteer slots at 23 projects in 6 different counties. Check out some of our favorite moments and tell us about yours with photos, recaps, and anecdotes about what you learned during this Day of Service:



Follow us on Instagram for even more Jersey Cares Day highlights.

School Supply Drive

The Jersey Cares School Supply Drive has now begun! Many of New Jersey's children are in need of school supplies for the upcoming school year. Jersey Cares works with multiple schools, children's shelters and community centers who provide services to children in need to ensure they have the necessary tools to have a successful school year. 

We will begin accepting items on June 1st.  For more information, visit:



Volunteer Star:
Loretta Robertson
In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, volunteers showed the true strength of Jersey. It was through one of these disaster recovery volunteers that Loretta Robertson was referred to Jersey Cares, and it just goes to show the power of making connections through volunteerism.

Loretta began as a volunteer as someone who identified as more of a "follower." But when you love a project, it's hard not to want to take that extra step. She wanted to try something new and really connects with her new role as a volunteer leader. She recommends the Project Coordinator program as a great way to gain excellent leadership experience. 

Read more about June's Star here. 
Learn how to become a volunteer leader like Loretta.
Give us a Year
Are you ready for a sabbatical from the day-to-day? Are you seeking to make a career change? Are you retired and seeking a way to donate your experience? 

We're seeking experienced professionals or young adults to serve full-time, for one full year as AmeriCorps VISTAs. We have five positions available. Click here to learn more . As a benefit, AmeriCorps VISTA will provide medical benefits, paid vacation and a modest living stipend.

Corporate Corner
  
Pfizer Kids Team Up to Give Back
 
As a part of Bring Your Child to Work Day, 70 children of Pfizer employees created dozens of kits to be donated to children in hospitals, recreation centers, and transitional homes. A total of six teams were put to the test creating Birthday in a Bag kits, helping underprivileged children throw their own birthday parties; Giggle Bags and Super Hero Capes, providing recovering children in the hospital with items to boost their spirits; and Fitness Kits, filled with items to help promote healthy and active lifestyles. Though these kids had the day off from school, that did not stop them from working extremely hard to put together these amazing kits for their underprivileged peers. Thank you, kids of Pfizer, for making a huge difference!

For more information on the Jersey Cares Corporate Service Program, please contact Michelle Dee.
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