Acknowledging the outstanding work of New Jersey’s volunteers and the personal sacrifices they and their families make in dedicated service to their fellow neighbors, New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno has personally thanked more than 600 New Jersey volunteers attending this year’s Governor’s Volunteerism Conference.
“Nearly one and a half million New Jerseyans selflessly give their time and effort to help others every year,” said Guadagno. “These volunteers are making an important and positive impact on our towns and neighborhoods, making them more livable and instilling real community spirit and pride. Their value is simply immeasurable. While we can never do enough to fully thank volunteers for their service, this conference acknowledges their efforts and provides for them an opportunity to learn from and network with other volunteers from across the state.”
New Jersey’s volunteers serve their communities in a variety of ways, including through non-profit agencies and faith-based organizations. Volunteers serve as mentors and tutors to children in need, support historical, arts and cultural agencies, protect the environment, feed the hungry, assist the homeless, work at hospitals, and help released prisoners re-enter society. During Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Katrina, New Jersey volunteers helped save lives, rebuild homes, and restore hope for those who suffered the greatest from the natural disasters.
To help volunteers serve their community, the Governor’s Office of Volunteerism provides valuable technical assistance, information on the latest trends and best practices in volunteerism, and recognizes individuals and groups that enhance New Jersey’s communities through voluntary service.
The Governor’s Advisory Council on Volunteerism and Community Service reaches out to and builds partnerships with businesses, county volunteer centers, voluntary organizations active in disasters, schools and colleges, and public and non-profit organizations. It also analyzes community needs and identifies resources.
Furthering the spirit of volunteerism, the Christie Administration will again initiate a month-long “Season of Service” later this year to give back to the greater New Jersey community. “Season of Service” was inspired by 8-year old Aidan McManus, an NJ Hero who has devoted his time and hard-earned money to feed the homeless and those in need in Burlington County.
The conference, which featured 29 workshops and brought together volunteers and volunteer managers from all sectors of New Jersey, also served to kick-off efforts to recruit 12,000 volunteers needed for the 2014 Super Bowl at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.
The conference was hosted by the Governor’s Office of Volunteerism (GOV). The Presenting Sponsor for the conference was Comcast and Major Sponsor was Bank of America.
New Jerseyans who wish to volunteer in their community or in response to a natural disaster are encouraged to call 1-800-jersey-7.
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