A UNITED WAY OF GREATER UNION COUNTY PUBLICATION
LIVING UNITED U N I T E D WAY O F G R E AT E R U N I O N C O U N T Y ’ S 2 0 1 0 - 2 0 1 1 A N N U A L R E P O R T
THANK YOU
FOR CREATING OPPORTUNITIES AND INSPIRING HOPE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW, BY GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY DURING A MOST CHALLENGING YEAR.
A MESSAGE TO THE COMMUNITY WE SERVE Dear Friends,
We are very excited to present you with our 2010 - 2011 Annual Report, which allows us to reflect on our recent accomplishments and look forward to the goals we will achieve this year. 2010 was an ambitious and exciting year for United Way of Greater Union County. We took on new challenges and faced serious obstacles. We have persevered with renewed strength and an unwavering dedication to our mission. Your support and generosity during the economic downturn of this past year has been instrumental in helping us successfully raise $6.8 million. Together, we gave more families and individuals the tools needed to attain financial stability, enjoy healthy quality lives and sustain stronger families in Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield.
Walter “Woody” Erhardt Enterprise Holdings
United Way of Greater Union County’s goal is to improve lives and change conditions in our community by strengthening families, because strong families are the foundation of a strong community. Our Family Success Centers have proven to be a tremendous asset, working with over 1,600 families in the past year. The vital services we provided through our 84 community partners have impacted the lives of nearly 30,000 individuals in Union County. United Way’s Family Strengthening initiatives ensure that everyone in Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield has the necessary opportunities, relationships and networks to support the success of their family. By focusing on Family Strengthening and the three key areas of Education, Income and Health, we are confident that we are making progress in our neighborhoods and helping people overcome their hardships. Our results this year have been profound. We have worked hard to help day care centers gain accreditation in order for children to be better prepared for school. Our programs have provided financial literacy to families in need of gaining control of their finances and allowed local health centers to improve access to needed services.
James W. Horne, Jr. United Way of Greater Union County
As we embark upon our new Community Needs Assessment, “Impact 2011 and Beyond”, United Way’s strategic focus for the future, we are confident we will continue to support the success of our area’s hardworking individuals and families. We know the problems remain complex as do the solutions; but the good news is that there are solutions, and we all can make a difference. Our vision remains bold and our goals remain focused. We are grateful to all of those who believe as we do, that the true strength of a community is measured by how we serve those in greatest need. Thank you for making a difference. Thank you for “Living United”, reaching out a hand to one to influence the condition of all residents of the Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield community. Thank you for your support.
Walter “Woody” Erhardt
James W. Horne, Jr.
Chair, Board of Trustees United Way of Greater Union County
President & CEO United Way of Greater Union County
2010-2011 LEADERSHIP, STAFF & VOLUNTEERS BOARD OFFICERS
STAFF
Walter “Woody” Erhardt
James W. Horne, Jr.
Enterprise Holdings Chair, Board of Trustees
Eileen Leahy PSE&G Vice Chair, Board of Trustees
Alison G. Yablonowitz Ernst & Young LLP Treasurer, Board of Trustees
Timothy Williams Elizabethtown Gas / AGL Resources Secretary, Board of Trustees
BOARD MEMBERS Martha Bahamon Foundation of UMDNJ Chair, Hispanic Leadership Advisory Council
Clarence W. Bauknight III, Esq. Wendy Burney The Burney Group, Inc.
James Carson Chair-Elect, Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights Community Council
Paul Dango IBM
Jerry DeNigris Riverside Financial Group Chair, Cranford Community Council
Nelson Dittmar
President & CEO
Debbie-Ann Anderson Vice President, Community Resources
Rochelle Green Vice President, Finance & Administration
Srabanti Sarkar Inez Bennett Corporate Relations Manager
Paul Gibney Director, Marketing & Communications
Tara Hilliard Creative Services Manager
Nelly Huilcarema Operations Coordinator
Dawn Jeglinski Finance & Administration Manager
Tenisha Malcolm Marketing & Communications Manager
Retired, Infineum USA L.P.
James K. Estabrook, Esq.
Valerie Mohyla Executive Assistant
Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, PA
Joan M. Evans
Carline Dumay
Vice President, Community Building
Retired, PricewaterhouseCoopers
William L. Donovan, Jr.
KEAN UNIVERSITY FEDERAL WORK-STUDY STUDENT
Susan Pepper
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LEADERS-ON-LOAN Ashley Columbia Bittu Doshi Cynthia Lubin Rob Lustgarten Melanie Mawn Payal Patel Ratika Sachan Amar Shah Muhammad Usmani Adam Zaher
Director of Programs
Infineum USA L.P.
Dr. Dawood Farahi
Jackie Rosado Community Resources Coordinator
Kean University
Frank Guzzo Union County Department of Human Services Ex-Offico
Ann-Marie Kay
Jeff Scheckner Community Engagement Manager
Cathy Waters Director of Programs
Kean University
Susan B. Levy Larry J. Lockhart LJL Financial
Patrick Murphy Linde North America Inc.
Kevin N. Phoenix C.R. Bard, Inc.
Thomas Ponosuk The Ponosuk Group Chair, Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights Community Council
Charles L. Smith III Comcast Cable
Joseph P. Starkey Retired, Schering-Plough Corporation
Maureen Tinen UCEDC
Edward Zarnock Union County Alliance (In Memoriam-Died April 9th, 2011)
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UNITED WAY COMMUNITY COUNCIL’S CRANFORD: Stephanie Brant • Ann Darby • Jerry DeNigris/Riverside Financial • Nelson Dittmar • Brian Egenton • Robert Hopkins • John Malar • Marie Mastorakis • Bob McArthur • Judy Panagakos • Jerry Paradiso • Harold Roy • Dave Quisenberry/Trading Places • David Springer • Diane Wurzburger-Siemens • PLAINFIELD: Brenda Anderson • Paulette Hussey / Plainfield Health Center • Ana Colon / Plainfield Health Center • Lamont Blowe & Nancy Fiske / The Pillars • Eloise Bryant Tinley • Wendy Burney /The Burney Group Inc. • Cora Coney /CNJACS • Jeffrey Dunn / One Stop Business Service • Pui Evans • Eric Graham / Plainfield Housing Authority • Jan Jasper • Pat Turner Kavanaugh • Kathy McDermott • Henry O’Bryan • Elizabeth Rifino • Lola Reed / Coldwell Banker East • Val Stevens • Ravenell Williams / YMCA • SUMMIT, BERKELEY HEIGHTS AND NEW PROVIDENCE: David Allegra • David Bendush • James Carson • Donald Chambers • Joanne Douds • Diane Gallo • Lisa Grazia • Paul Kay • David Mack • Barbara Mulcahy/ReMax • Henry Ogden • Thomas Ponosuk • Sergio Ruta • Maureen Scalera •
TABLE OF CONTENT OUR FOCUS FAMILY STRENGTHENING NETWORK
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FINANCIALS
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CAMPAIGN 2010-2011 RESULTS
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TOP 25 DONATING ORGANIZATIONS HOW YOU CAN LIVE UNITED! 2010-2011 BUSINESS SUPPORTERS
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2010-2011 LEADERSHIP SIGNATURE CLUB
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AFFINITY GROUP EVENTS, WOMEN IN POWER CONFERENCE P. 18-19 NJ4HAITI FEATURE
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VOLUNTEER FEATURE
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SPECIAL EVENTS-CELEBRATION
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SPECIAL EVENTS-TASTE OF CRANFORD, PLAINFIELD HOUSE TOUR
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SPECIAL EVENTS-LINDEN YOUTH FOR UNITED WAY, GOLF CLASSIC
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OUR MISSION The mission of United Way of Greater Union County is to ensure the health and human service needs of the community are identified and addressed in ways that create a better future for the residents of Greater Union County.
COMMUNITIES WE SERVE BERKELEY HEIGHTS • CLARK • CRANFORD • ELIZABETH • FANWOOD • GARWOOD • HILLSIDE • KENILWORTH • LINDEN • MOUNTAINSIDE• NEW PROVIDENCE • NORTH PLAINFIELD • PLAINFIELD • RAHWAY • ROSELLE • ROSELLE PARK • SCOTCH PLAINS • SPRINGFIELD • SOUTH PLAINFIELD • SUMMIT • UNION • WESTFIELD • WINFIELD PARK P.5
OUR FOCUS: FAMILY STRENGTHENING United Way of Greater Union County’s goal is to improve lives and change conditions in our community by strengthening families; strong families are the foundation of a strong community.
HEALTH
INCOME
EDUCATION
“Family Strengthening” ensures that everyone in Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield has the necessary opportunities, relationships and networks to support the success of their families. We focus on three key areas: Education, Income and Health.
Education is the foundation of a good life, setting an individual on a path of personal fulfillment and economic security.
Adequate income to pay for today’s necessities and save for the future, provides a family with financial stability and independence.
Good health improves a child’s opportunity to learn, increases an adult’s productivity at work and enhances the quality of life for the elderly.
FACT: 32% of the children in Union County, United Way of Greater Union County’s efforts in ages 3-5, are not enrolled in nursery school, education focus on children from birth to age 18. preschool or kindergarten¹. UWGUC works to ensure that children in our community begin school ready to learn. We support efforts to help students experience academic 1) Association for Children of New Jersey, Kids Count 2010, http://www.acnj.org success so they can graduate from high school on time and continue to succeed as young adults.
FACT: It is estimated that, in Union County, two adults with a preschool child need to make over $55,000 to be considered self-sufficient. If they have two preschool children, they need to make over $69,000.² 2) Legal Services of New Jersey, The Real Cost of Living in 2008, http://www.lsnj.org
United Way of Greater Union County’s programs help people build the job skills and knowledge necessary for them to attain financial independence and stability. We are committed to helping close the economic gap by creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to find safe and affordable housing; the skills and training needed to succeed in a decent paying job; and the means to be self-sufficient.
FACT: It is estimated that 22.4% of Union United Way of Greater Union County supports County’s population is either uninsured or programs that help our most vulnerable residents underinsured.³ achieve and maintain good health. For example, we help to educate first time, low-income mothers 3) NJ-CCP County Report Summary of Union County, about the importance of pre-natal check-ups as http://ww.uniontownship.com/web/UnionReport.pdf well as providing them with the necessary resources to help them raise healthy children.
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ALIG NIN G TO P ROM OTE TH EW ELL -BE ING O
FR ESID ENT S
UNION COUNTY
FAMILY STRENGTHENING NET WORK The Union County Family Strengthening Network (UCFSN) is a unique public-private partnership between United Way of Greater Union County, County of Union Department of Human Services, the State of New Jersey Department of Children and Families and The Nicholson Foundation. The Network is designed to maximize and leverage all available resources within the County on behalf of our community's children and families. UCFSN consists of several components:
UNITED WAY’S FAMILY SUCCESS CENTERS NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP RECONNECTIONS PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT COMMUNITY RESOURCE NETWORK
UNITED WAY’S FAMILY SUCCESS CENTERS United Way oversees a network of Family Success Centers in Union County. Family Success Centers are community-based neighborhood gathering places where any community resident can go for family support, information and services. Services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each community, each center provides the following core services: Advocacy •
Child-care access • Development of “Family Success” plans • Home visitation • Housing-related
services • Information and referral services • Life-skills training • Maternal and family health information • Parent education • Parent-child activities • Self-sufficiency/employment related services• ~During the past year, Union County’s five Family Success Centers have served 1600 families.~
UNITED WAY’S FAMILY SUCCESS CENTERS Success Story Very few people move through life without facing difficulty. Fortunately, few face the challenges that Evelyn and Victor were forced to deal with. Thanks to the help of United Way of Greater Union County, they have overcome their difficulties and are stronger than before. Evelyn and Victor were forced to leave Haiti after the earthquake. Their home and everything they knew had been demolished and the lives they led were effectively over. Fleeing destruction, the two refugees came to settle in Elizabeth, NJ and quickly heard about the United Way Family Success Center run by Jefferson Park Ministries. Widely known for its work in the Haitian community, the Jefferson Park Family Success Center became a haven for many earthquake refugees trying to navigate their way through a new and confusing
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country. “We were so worried when we came to this country,” Evelyn said. “We spoke very little English. We didn’t know how we would be understood. But they speak Creole at the Family Success Center and that made us very happy. We could feel safe there.” The couple was able to work directly with a family support worker to begin addressing their needs, helping to secure housing and become self-sufficient. Thanks to a grant obtained by United Way of Greater Union County and funded through United Way Worldwide, Literacy Volunteers of Union County offered ESL classes to the new immigrants. Evelyn and Victor were able to learn English. “Our tutor was wonderful,” said Victor. “She didn’t just teach us English. She helped us learn how to handle forms and job applications, so we were ready when the time came.” The couple also attended workshops at the Family Success Center which helped them understand and navigate the job search process. Thanks to their work with the Success Center and their tutor, both Evelyn and Victor received their Certified Nursing Assistant licenses. In October of 2010, they both began new jobs as Home Health Aides. They remain grateful for their good fortune. Evelyn beams, “Now we have good, secure jobs. When we left Haiti, we had no idea what was ahead of us or how we would survive. Thanks to the help from United Way, we have a home and jobs. We have our future again.” HOMEFIRST FAMILY SUCCESS CENTER 905 Watchung Ave. Plainfield, NJ 07060 P. (908)753-4002 JEFFERSON PARK MINISTRIES FAMILY SUCCESS CENTER 213 Jefferson Ave. Elizabeth, NJ 07201 P. (908)469-9508 LINDEN FAMILY SUCCESS CENTER 1025 John St. Linden, NJ 07036 P. 908-447-0922 PLAINFIELD FAMILY SUCCESS CENTER 504 Madison Avenue Plainfield, NJ 07060 P. (908) 731-4272 ROSELLE FAMILY SUCCESS CENTER 120-125 Chestnut St.Roselle, NJ 07203 P. (908) 445-8043
FAMILY STRENGTHENING NETWORK NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP The Union County Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) program is a joint initiative between United Way of Greater Union County (UWGUC) and Holy Redeemer Home Care. NFP is an evidence-based, community health home visitation program that helps transform the lives of vulnerable mothers pregnant with their first child. Mothers enrolled in the program are partnered with a registered nurse early in her pregnancy and receives ongoing nurse home visits that continue through the child’s second birthday. Nurse-Family Partnership introduces first-time parents to caring maternal and child health nurses. This program allows nurses to deliver the support first-time moms need to have a healthy pregnancy, become knowledgeable and responsible parents, and provide their babies with the best possible start in life. The relationship between mother and nurse provides the foundation for strong families, and lives are forever changed – for the better. During the past year, Nurse-Family Partnership served 51 women in the Greater Union County area.
NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP Holiday Wishes Baby Shower
Twenty, first-time mothers enrolled in the Union County Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program, gathered at The Cavalier Restaurant in Roselle to enjoy a Holiday Wishes Baby Shower. The new mothers and mothers-to-be were presented with holiday and baby shower gifts for their little ones, including diapers, baby wipes, baby clothes, blankets and more, donated through United Way’s Season of Caring Program by participating employees of Linde North America, Inc.- Murray Hill, New Jersey. NFP is a national evidence-based, community health program that helps transform the lives of vulnerable mothers pregnant with their first child. Registered nurses provide support, education, and counseling on health and self-sufficiency issues through home visitations from pregnancy until the baby is 2 years old. The reception was intended to celebrate and kick-off this innovative program in Union County – helping new parents to succeed. The program empowers first-time mothers with the resources and knowledge to provide an environment in which children can reach their full potential. “We are thrilled by the overwhelming response to the Holiday Wishes Baby Shower from supportive corporate sponsors of United Way,” said Lu Archeval , Director of Community Based Services at Holy Redeemer Health Care. “The acts of kindness shown towards these families is important, because these mothers need to know they have support not only from their families but their community as well.” “UWGUC is proud to partner with Holy Redeemer Home Care for the NFP program,” said James W. Horne Jr., President & CEO of United Way of Greater Union County. “We are pleased to see that it is successfully offering mothers and fathers access to the best advice for making positive decisions for themselves and their families.” Holy Redeemer Home Care is actively recruiting first-time pregnant women throughout Union County for NFP. The program is free, based on guidelines; participants join early in pregnancy and must be enrolled before 28 weeks. For information on the Nurse-Family Partnership, visit the national Web site at www.nursefamilypartnership.org.
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FAMILY STRENGTHENING NETWORK RECONNECTIONS Reconnections is a prisoner re-entry initiative developed through a partnership between United Way of Greater Union County, Union County Department of Human Services, Union County College and the Nicholson Foundation. Reconnections helps formerly incarcerated individuals gain access to services that help them develop meaningful skills they can use to better their lives and ensure successful reintegration to the community. The project provides essential support services to address an individual's immediate needs to ensure his or her successful re-integration to the community. The goal of the program is to lead these individuals to self-sufficiency and allow them to become productive citizens of Union County. Some of the services provided include: Orientation and Assessment, Case Management, Education, Employment Assistance, Mentoring Support, Treatment for Drug Abuse, Mental Health Counseling, Community Resource Assistance.
RECONNECTIONS Success Story Everyone deserves a second chance, but it is up to the individual to make the most of it. United Way provided Chris with that chance and he seized the opportunity to turn his life around. A life-long resident of Plainfield, NJ, Chris had battled substance abuse since adolescence and had been incarcerated several times. Immediately upon release from a halfway house, Chris returned to Plainfield to reunite with his wife and children and work to re-enter his community in a positive way. “I have problems and I have made mistakes, but I needed to step up and become the man my family deserved,” Chris said. “I knew I was going to need help if I was going to succeed. That is why I went to United Way.” He enrolled in United Way of Greater Union County’s Reconnections program in November of 2010. Chris attended Reconnections workshops to help him enter the job market (interviewing techniques, employment readiness, resume preparation) and make positive changes in his life (goal setting, family strengthening and the Fatherhood program). Chris’ Reconnections case manager helped him get started by providing a bus pass for his first month of employment and directed him to a Narcotics Anonymous group sponsored by a local church. Chris attends the group weekly and is dedicated to remaining drug-free. Chris and his family also use the United Way Family Success Center in Plainfield for housing support, as well as life and parenting skills classes. “The Family Success Center is great,” Chris says. “They’re with us every step of the way; always there to work with us. It feels good knowing we can always stop by, whether we need help or just want to see friends.” They are working with a family support worker at the Center and are striving to achieve their goals as a family. Chris is currently working two full time jobs to provide for his family. He says he could not have accomplished this without the help and support of the staff at Reconnections and the Family Success Center. His wife and children are extremely proud of his accomplishments. “I use every one of the tools I learned in the program,” Chris says. “My case manager helped me get appropriate clothing to wear on job interviews. Everything I have accomplished since I returned home has been thanks to the help of United Way.” Chris is so thankful for the help he has received that he has joined the Reconnections Alumni Association. He is now mentoring other men and women working to better their lives as they re-enter society; helping to give others the same second chance he received.
PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT United Way of Greater Union County administers a statewide initiative that supports and encourages positive parenting and strengthens vulnerable families by providing voluntary case management programs and services. This approach assesses a family’s strengths and needs, and provides services to meet those needs. Throughout 2010 over 160 families have been served.
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FAMILY STRENGTHENING NETWORK COMMUNITY RESOURCE NETWORK United Way of Greater Union County partners with non-profits and government agencies throughout the county to help deliver the human services our community needs. Over 80 organizations have joined our Community Resource Network, each filling a vital role connecting individuals and families of Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield to the support they require. Community Resource Network members work to support families and individuals by building a continuum of care – providing critical services ranging from pre-natal health classes to strengthening the life skills of the families in our community. The Network helps the people in our community build a stronger support system, assists them through crises and works with them to create long-term stability and self-sufficiency for their families. The Community Resource Network offers over 200 programs in human services such as: Access to Health Care, After-School Programming, Child Abuse Prevention, Early Childhood Education, Emergency Assistance, Employment and Training Assistance, Housing Assistance, Legal Services, Life Skills Training, Mental Health Services and Youth Development. The Community Resource Network is constantly expanding as UWGUC looks for new opportunities to provide the health and human services our community needs. As of September, 2011, the Community Resource Network included: After School Enrichment Program Arc of Union County Arts Unbound Atlantic Health/Overlook Hospital Family Service Boy Scouts (Patriots' Path Council, Inc.) Brand New Day Bridgeway Rehabilitation Services Business One-Stop Center CASA of Union County Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark Center for Hope Hospice & Palliative Care Central Jersey Legal Services, Inc. Central NJ Maternal Health Consortium Cerebral Palsy League Inc. City of Linden Communities in Cooperation, Inc. Community Access Unlimited Community Coordinated Child Care Community Service Association of New Providence Connection for Women and Families Contact We Care, Inc. Cranford Family Care Association Cranford Public Schools CURA, Inc. Division of Youth and Family Services - Union County Office Educational Intervention Institute, LLC Egenolf Early Childhood Center Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless
Elizabethport Presbyterian Center, Inc. Families and Community Together Family & Children's Services Family Support Organization of Union County Fish Hospitality Program, Inc. Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Good Grief, Inc. Groundwork Elizabeth Holy Redeemer Home Care Homefirst, Inc. Intervention Specialists, LLC Jewish Community Center of Central NJ Jefferson Park Ministries Jewish Family Services of Central NJ King's Daughters Day School Lifeline Support, Inc. Literacy Volunteers of Union County, Inc. Mobile Meals of Westfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation Neighborhood House Association NJ 211 Northern NJ Maternal/Child Health Consortium Occupational Center of Union County Plainfield Area YMCA Plainfield Board of Education Plainfield Housing Authority Prevention Links, Inc. PROCEED, Inc. Rahway Community Action Organization
Rahway Day Care Center Raritan Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross Resolve Community Counseling Center Restore Ministries, Inc Roselle Day Care Center SAGE Eldercare, Inc Salvation Army - Elizabeth Temple Corps Salvation Army - Union County Service Center Salvation Army of Plainfield Second Street Youth Center Foundation, Inc Summit Oaks Hospital UCPC Behavioral Healthcare Union County College Union County Department of Human Services Union County Division of Social Services Union County One Stop Career Centers Union County Paratransit System United Family and Children's Society Urban League of Union County Westfield Area Y Westfield Community Center YES Summit, New Providence & Berkeley Heights YMCA of Eastern Union County YM-YWHA of Union County Youth and Family Counseling Service YWCA Eastern Union County YWCA of Central Jersey
Residents Served by United Way of Greater Union County and our Community Resource Network Berkeley Heights –1397 Clark – 684 Cranford – 1869 Elizabeth – 5125
Fanwood – 116 Hillside – 2289 Garwood – 124 Kenilworth – 202
Linden – 1655 Mountainside – 262 North Plainfield – 554 New Providence – 1370
Plainfield – 7673 Rahway – 1292 Roselle – 2022 Roselle Park – 313
Scotch Plains – 1396 Springfield – 278 Summit – 3009 South Plainfield – 461
Union – 992 Westfield – 2072 Winfield – 257
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2010-2011 FINANCIALS
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Unaudited August 31, 2011
Audited August 31, 2010
Campaign Contributions: Regular Campaign Contributions Non-recurring campaign contributions Total Campaign and Other Contributions
$4,413,663 36,553 $4,450,216
$4,651,993 134,415 $4,786,408
Other revenue: Government grants Special Events, gross Other Revenue Other Grants Total other revenue Total revenue
1,711,906 160,517 257,072 245,754 $2,375,249 $6,825,465
1,654,862 124,362 295,652 29,890 $2,104,766 $6,891,174
Expenses Program services: Distributions to agencies in GUC Donor designated contributions Other Grants Government grants Direct program services Total Program Expenses
1,118,272 1,459,747 761,008 1,711,906 635,631 $5,686,564
1,095,350 1,436,864 576,702 1,654,762 609,881 $5,373,559
Supporting services: General and Administration Fund-raising Total Supporting Services Estimated uncollectible contributions Total expenses
403,813 537,389 941,202 44,535 $6,672,301
486,038 481,799 967,837 243,363 $6,584,759
Net Assets at Beginning of Year
$1,985,613
$1,479,446
Changes in Net Assets before Non-operating
$153,164
$306,415
Non-Operating
$199,752
$199,752
Changes in Net Assets after Non-operating
$352,916
$506,167
Net Assets at End of Year
$2,338,529
$1,985,613
Operating Expense Ratio
12.68%
13.27%
TOGETHER WE SECURED $ 6.8 MILLION During the 2010-2011 annual campaign our donors (investors), private foundation partners, corporate partners, government partners, community partners and residents of Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield rallied to show support by contributing $6,825,465. The result is a tremendous accomplishment in light of the struggling economy. Donating to United Way is a solid return on your investment that benefits people you know, focuses on issues you care about, achieves problem solving results and makes a difference in the community.
TOP 25 ORGANIZATIONS
THE 2010-2011 CAMPAIGN Over 200 companies provided financial or in-kind support to United Way of Greater Union County this year.
(Turn to page 15 for a complete list of
Thank you for helping us change lives and build stronger communities through your generosity to United Way of Greater Union County.
A message from the 2010-2011 Campaign Chair It has truly been a rewarding and extraordinary experience to lead the 2010-2011 United Way of Greater Union County Campaign. I am extremely grateful to have had this opportunity!
2010/2011 Campaign Cabinet Tom Beck Executive Director Jewish Family Services
As a Union County resident, working with United Way of Greater Union County is extremely gratifying for me. In every phase of my experience with United Way, as a board member and a donor, I have seen the benefits of the organization’s approach to strengthening families and building stronger communities.
James Carson Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights Community Council Co-Chair
Walter “Woody” Erhardt Regional Vice President Enterprise Holdings
James Meyer Retired, Merck & Co., Inc.
I am also proud to report that over 150 companies conducted workplace campaigns and I would like to extend my gratitude to the Employee Campaign Coordinators who led those efforts. I commend United Way volunteers and donors on a job well done. Because of all of you, the Greater Union County region is and will continue to be a great place to live and work.
Merck & Co., Inc. The Nicholson Foundation Linde North America, Inc. C. R. Bard, Inc. Johnson & Johnson Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Wells Fargo
UPS Alcatel-Lucent Bank of America Macy's Prudential Financial Corp. AGL Resources /Elizabethtown Gas Enterprise Rent-A-Car NuStar Energy L.P. Deloitte & Touche Verizon-New Jersey
Maureen Tinen President & CEO UCEDC
State of New Jersey: Department of Children and Families
Infineum USA L.P.
Contributing to United Way is simply one of the best ways for any Union County resident to invest in the area in which they live and work. United Way mobilizes a volunteer campaign team that strives to raise the funds needed to improve the quality of health and human service programs and meet the needs of our community. I have had the distinct honor of leading the Campaign Cabinet and I appreciate the dedication and commitment from each and every member.
Joan Evans LBTC Site Manager Infineum USA, L.P.
2010-2011 business support.)
Most importantly, I am thankful for the thousands of donors, companies, private foundations, community partners and government entities committed to helping improve the conditions in Union County, North Plainfield and South Plainfield. It has been both exhilarating and heartwarming to witness the success of this year’s campaign. Paul Dango
AT&T Comcast Cablevision of NJ New York Life Insurance Company Plainfield Foundation Federal Reserve Bank of New York The Wilf Family Foundation
IBM Global Client Director United Way Campaign Chair
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HOW YOU CAN LIVE UNITED GIVE INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY When you invest in the United Way Community Impact Fund, you maximize the only return on your charitable dollar that matters – RESULTS. Every donation to your United Way goes to help people right here in the Greater Union County community. This means that your money is making an impact for friends, colleagues and neighbors who need assistance. All of the programs funded by United Way are locally run and benefit people in the Union County, North and South Plainfield communities. It takes all of us working together to build the kind of community for which we all hope. It takes your gift to United Way’s Community Impact Fund to make that happen. A gift to United Way’s Community Impact Fund is united and powerful, joining with the generosity of your friends, family and co-workers to ensure the necessary resources are there to make a real difference to people in need. Join together to accomplish what no single person can…LIVE UNITED. You can give at the office through your employer’s workplace campaign, respond to our direct mail solicitation, go online at www.uwguc.org/give or participate in our mobile giving campaign by texting “UWGUC” to 50555 to donate $10.00 to United Way of Greater Union County.
ADVOCATE LEND YOUR MUSCLE. FIND YOUR VOICE. You can make change happen with your voice by getting informed, educating your friends and showing your passion about local issues. There are many ways to be heard. Anyone can champion the cause. Whether you are speaking out to improve the condition of the community, reaching out to local or state government or wearing your LIVE UNITED t-shirt to show your support, you can help inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. Be visible. Be loud. Join one of UWGUC’s Affinity Groups! United Way’s affinity groups are collaborations of concerned people with shared interests who are committed to significantly improving the quality of life in our region through focused philanthropic giving, advocacy and volunteering. • African American Leadership Initiative is a network of dedicated African-American leaders who marshal their resources to address the most pressing issues in the African-American community. AALI’s mission is to mobilize the caring power of the African-American community to improve African-American lives in Union County. • Hispanic Leadership Advisory Council is focused on ensuring that members of the Hispanic community have full access to United Way's network of programs and services as well as assessing and addressing critical health and human service needs. • Women’s Leadership Council brings together dynamic women from local businesses, government, education, healthcare and other community organizations to help keep our community safe and thriving. WLC participants plan networking events and develop ways to address local issues that affect our community.
Join a Community Council! United Way’s outreach, grass roots, volunteer committees. The eyes, ears and voice of the United Way within the local city or town, Community Councils are comprised of people from the business community, residents, senior citizens, educators and the public service sectors. For more information please contact Jeff Scheckner at jeff.scheckner@uwguc.org or call 908.353.7171 x138.
VOLUNTEER GIVE AN HOUR. GIVE A DAY. GIVE YOUR BEST. We all have special talents. Things we can do to help. When we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all. As a volunteer, you make a direct, hands-on contribution to the community. Visit our website at www.unitedwayvolunteers.org to find rewarding opportunities in your area. The Volunteer Center at United Way of Greater Union County provides a variety of services to organizations, groups and individuals seeking volunteer placement. Through an interactive website and online database with hundreds of volunteer opportunities suitable for individuals and groups, the Volunteer Center is responsible for matching prospective volunteers with the organizations and agencies that utilize them. The Volunteer Center also provides professional development and training to volunteer managers to strengthen their organizations’ capacity; offers customized volunteer projects for corporate, public and private groups with the United Way of Greater Union County’s partner agencies; and provides community service projects and internship placements for students.
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GIVE 2010-2011 BUSINESS SUPPORT A Toute Heure • Abbott Laboratories • Accenture • Adesta, LLC • ADP • Aetna Life Insurance Company • AGL Resources/ Elizabethtown Gas • AkzoNobel • Alcatel-Lucent • Allstate Insurance Co. • American Express • American Red Cross Tri-County Chapter • American Safety Technologies, Inc. • Ameriprise Financial • Ameritrade National • Andersen Corporation • Anderson Publishing Ltd. • Aramark • ARC of Union County, Inc. • Ard Appraisal Company • Associated Realty Management • Assurant, Inc. • AT&T • Atlantic Federal Credit Union • Avenue East • B.J.'s Wholesale • Baker Endowment • Banana Republic • Bank of America • Bank of NY Mellon • Barisonek & Dooley, Esqs. • BASF • Battleground Developers, LLC. • Bayer Consumer Care • Best Buy Company, Inc. • Bjorge & Assoc., Inc. • Blue Cross/Blue Shield • Boulevard Five 72 • Boyle Hotels Management Group • Breeze-Eastern • Brewster Realty • Burling Chartable Fund • C&S Wholesale Grocers, Inc. • C. R. Bard, Inc. • Cadbury Schweppes America • Cafe Lia • Camptown Tool & Die Company, Inc • Capital Power • Cardiovascular Diseases • Cargill • Central Jersey Legal Services, Inc. • Cerebral Palsy League of Union County • Ceridian • Cervantes of Spain • Cheese...Please! • Chevron Corporation • Chubb & Son • Church Women United of Cranford • Cigna P&C Companies • Citigroup • City of Elizabeth • City of Linden • Clark, Peterpaul, Corcoran & Costello • Colgate University • Comcast Cablevision of NJ • Community Coordinated Child Care • Congressional Black Caucus Foundation • Connection for Women And Families • ConocoPhillips Bayway Refinery • Corey M. Notis, MD Associates in Eyecare • Costco • Cranford Family Care Association • Cranford Hotel • Curtiss-Wright • Danny's Auto Repair • Day Care Center of The First Presbyterian Church • Deloitte & Touche • Derco • Development Corporation for State of Israel Bonds • Dittrick's Wines • Duane Morris LLP • Dunkin Donuts • DuPont • Eastern Star Home • EATON • Educational Testing Service • Eli Lilly Sales Force-UW Cen. IN • EMC Enterprise Rent-A-Car • Exxon Mobil Corporation • Exxon Research & Engineering
•
Family & Children's Services • Federal Reserve Bank of New York • FedEx Corp • FedEx Ground • FirstEnergy • Fisher Scientific
Worldwide • Florence & Harry A. Cooper Foundation • Fox Hill Run @ Woodbridge, LLC • Fox Shuffler LLC • G. Collins & Company, LLC • Garlic Rose Bistro • Gateway Regional Chamber of Commerce• GE CPARS •
GE Healthcare • General Motors Corporation • Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey • GlaxoSmithKline • Glenney Trust • Glimcher Realty Trust • Golda Och Academy, Inc. • Gourment Deli • Guide Publications, INC •
H&R Block • Hanover Insurance • Harrison Research Laboratories Inc • Hayward Industrial Products Inc. • Henkels & McCoy • Hertz Corporation • Hilltop Community Bank • Hoffmann-LaRoche • Holy Redeemer Health System • Home Goods • Homefirst (formerly Interfaith Council) • Hou-Lou Inc. • HP-The Hartford Financial Services • HSBC - No.Amer. • Household International • IBM • Il Gabbiano • Infineum USA L.P. • Ingersoll Rand • Innovative Folding Carton Co. • Insurance Council of N.J.,Inc. • Intel Retiree • International Paper • Investors Savings Bank • J. P. Morgan Chase & Co. • Jacobson & Company Inc. • Janus Solutions •
Jewish Community Center of Central NJ • Jewish Family Service of Central NJ • Jewish Federation of Central NJ • JJ Bergamo Auto & Tire Centers • Johnson & Johnson • Johnson Controls, Inc. • Joseph L Snyder
Trust • K2 Fitness LLC • Keystone Community Residence • Kilkenney House • King's Daughters Day School, Inc. • Kohl's Store 387 • Laboratory Corporation of Amer. • Law Office of David C. Bendush • Leal Trust •
Lerner David Littenberg Krumholz & Mentl • Liberty Mutual • Liberty United Van Lines • Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper • Linde North America, Inc. • Literacy Volunteers of Union County • LJL
Financial • Local 68, I.U.O.E. • L'Oreal USA • Lowes • Macy's • Macy's Furniture Store • Magnolia Beef Company • Marcus Kelley • Marino's Fish Restaurant • Marriott Hotel Corporation • Marshalls • Martin Jewelers • McKinsey & Company, Inc. • Medco Health • Merck & Co., Inc. • MetLife Foundation • Microsoft • H.M. Miller • Mizu Sushi • Mooney-General Paper Company • Morgan Stanley • Motorola Inc. •
N.A.P.A. Distribution Center • N.J. American Water Company • Nationwide Insurance • Neiman Marcus • New York Life Insurance Company • New York Shipping Association, Inc. • NJ Wine Seller • Northfield
Savings Bank • Northwest Airlines • Novartis Pharmaceutical • Nustar Energy L.P. • Office Beer Bar & Grill • OMG Electonic Chemicals, Inc. • Scott Drugs • OSG Overseas Shipping Group, Inc. • Palisades Safety & Insurance Management Corporation • Paradigm Associates LLC • Pat Smith Chiropractic Services • Paychex • Payless Shoes #1106 • Performance Food Group - AFI Foodservice • Periwinkles • Perrotti's Quality Meats • Pfizer • Phillips-Van Heusen Corporation • Philoxenia, LLC • Pinho's Bakery • Piper Jaffray & Co. • Pitney Bowes • Plainfield Area YMCA • Plainfield Board of Education • Plainfield Consultation Center • Plainfield Endowment Fund • Plainfield Foundation • Pond Trust • Prevention Links • PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP • ProQuest/Bowker • Prudential Financial Corp. • PSE&G • Quinn • Rahway Day Care Center • Rapps Pharmacy • Raymond James & Associates, Inc. • Reel Strong Fuel Company • Residence Inn by Marriott • Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc • Ring Power Corporation • Rivero CPA LLC •
Riverside Financial Group • Robert Haswell Ewing, L.L.C. • Robert Wood Johnson Foundation • Rockin' Joe • Ropes & Gray • Roselle Savings Bank • Rutgers-State University of New Jersey • S. Seltzer
Construction Corp. • SAGE Eldercare • Salvation Army • Sauer & Fitzpatrick • Scaturro's Pizzeria • Second Street Youth Center • Selective Insurance • Shoprite Supermarkets • SmartStaff • SO Charitable Trust •
SO. Brunswick, INC. • Solar Compounds Corporation • South Plainfield Board of Education • Sovereign Bank • Spectra Energy • Spencer Savings Bank • St. John's Baptist Church • State Farm Insurance • State
of New Jersey: Department of Children and Families • Stop & Shop Supermarkets, Inc. • Sugar House • Susquehanna Bancshares, Inc. • Target • TD Bank • Tekmark • Tempil-ITW • The Burney Group Inc. • The Connection for Women and Families • The Framing Center • The Gap • The Glasser Foundation • The Hand Treatment Center • The Handyman 4-U • The McGraw-Hill Companies • The Nicholson Foundation • The Principal Financial Group • The T.F. Trust • The Wilf Family Foundation • TIAA Cref • Toshiba Business Solutions • Total Lubricants USA, Inc. • Triestina Ristorante • UCEDC • UCPC Behavioral Health Care, Inc. • University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ: UMDNJ Foundation • Union Center National Bank • Union County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO • Union County College Foundation • Union County Employees • Union County Savings Bank • United Family & Children's Society • United Way Worldwide • UnitedHealth Group • UnumProvident • UPS • Urban League of Union County • USAA • Valley National Bank • Valley of The Sun United Way • Vanilla Bean Creamy • Verizon Wireless • Verizon-New Jersey • Victor M. Richel Family Foundation • Wells Fargo • Wal-Mart • Waring Trust • Wednesday Morning Club • Westfield High School • Westfield Jr. Women's Club • Westfield Y • Williams Gas Pipeline Transco. • Willis HRH • Woodland School • Workman Publishing, Co. • WPI Communications • X-Cel Carting, Inc. • Xerox • YMCA of Eastern Union County • YMYWHA of Union County • Young Men's Christian Association of Westfield • Youth And Family Counseling Services • YWCA of Central New Jersey • YWCA of Eastern Union County • Zurich North America National Prc.
List current as of September 1, we regret any errors or omissions.
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GIVE 2010-2011 LEADERSHIP SIGNATURE CLUB 2010-2011 Alexis de Tocqueville Society La Société Nationale $100,000 or more The Nicholson Foundation
Eugene Schaefer
Charles Brooks
Johnson & Johnson
Linde North America Inc.
Mark A. Scherer
Eileen Brown
Deloitte & Touche
Linde North America Inc.
Todd Schermerhorn
Robert Brown
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Gregory Szpunar
John Brull
Merck & Co., Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
David Bunting
Stephanie Turner
Eloise Bryant Tinley
Stephen and Nina Celona
Christine Veneruso
Silver Leaders $2,500 - $4,999 Christopher Birosak Brian and Diane Boufarah Deloitte & Touche
David Ten Broeck Pfizer Inc
Ordre de Liberté $25,000 - $49,999 William and Angela Freda Deloitte & Touche
Patrick Ramsey
Greg Dadika C. R. Bard, Inc.
Clifford Caldwell Mark Walaska
Jeffrey Callender Family & Children's Services
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Retiree
Kimberly White
Jeanne A. Fedoryk
Wells Fargo
Johnson & Johnson
Alison and Michael Yablonowitz
$15,000 - $24,999
Kurt Fischer
Ernst & Young
The Plainfield Foundation
Mark and Donna Giannone
Ordre de Consul Membre de la Société $10,000 - $14,999
James Carson D.
Tom and Marti Omberg
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Deloitte & Touche
James W. Horne, Jr.
Scott and Leslie Coates
Mark and Laurie Parkin
United Way of Greater Union County
Deloitte & Touche
Deloitte & Touche
James Howard
William Dudley and Ann Darby
Timothy Ring
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Federal Reserve Bank of New York
C. R. Bard, Inc.
John R. Jacobs
Walter and Judy Shipley
The Wilf Foundation
Platinum Leaders $7,500 - $9,999 Sal and Carol Davide Deloitte & Touche
Eric Rollin Pfizer Inc.
Gold Leaders $5,000 - $7,499 Curtiss Brown
Carole J. Kahrs
C.R. Bard, Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
James Carver
Edward and Jeanne Kingsley
Wells Fargo
Deloitte & Touche
David J. Ciavarella
Maureen Mohlenkamp
C.R. Bard, Inc.
Deloitte & Touche
Eric Hubbard
Dennis and Merle Poller
Linde North America Inc.
Joseph Abrahams
John Groskoph
Raymond and Robin Beier
Joseph and Elizabeth Wilf
Raymond Carr Jr. John Carroll
John Hanson
Deloitte & Touche
C. R. Bard, Inc.
$1,000 - $2,499
Bank of NY Mellon
Merck & Co., Retiree
JP Morgan Chase Trust Fund
Mark Carow
Charles and Mary Goodfellow
James and Kathleen Meyer
Alessandra Joseph Patrick and Isabella Henry
IBM
Bronze Leaders
Deloitte & Touche
Michele Weeden
Stephanie Carmel
Deloitte & Touche
Robert and Annmarie Adamo
Bank of America
Deloitte & Touche
Alan Campell
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Pfizer Inc.
Alice and Glenn Engel
Linde North America Inc.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Nelson and Carolyn Dittmar
Deloitte & Touche
Infineum USA L.P.
City of Elizabeth
William Webb
Steve and Kathleen Theriot
Ropes & Gray
Kerry Busarow Cogen
Peter Daley
Bank of America
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Deloitte & Touche
Wells Fargo
Merck & Co., Inc.
NuStar Energy L.P.
Donald Carter Debbie-Ann Anderson
AGL Resources/ Elizabethtown Gas
United Way of Greater Union County
Clayton Chandler David Andrews
Deloitte & Touche
Merck & Co., Inc.
Swati and Manish Choudhary Bert Armeny
Deloitte & Touche
Infineum USA L.P.
Timothy Collins Christopher Armstrong Esq.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Jeffrey Armus
Peter Connolly
Katherine C. Kalin
Linde North America Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson
Cynthia Aronson
David Cook
Bronwen Kelly
Johnson & Johnson
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Atul Athalye
Kathleen Lind
Linde North America Inc.
Deloitte & Touche
Hermann Barak
Larry and Marilyn Lockhart
Jewish Community Center of Central NJ
LJL Financial
Robert Barber
James Maultsby
Bank of America
Bank of America
Ellen Barrabee
Peter and Denise Micca
Merck & Co., Inc.
Deloitte & Touche
Daniel Barreto
Patrick Murphy
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Michael Beckman
Robert Nettles
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Stanley Borowiec
Kendall O'Brien
Linde North America Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Marian Bozak
Peter and Lauren Pardo
Linde North America Inc.
Deloitte & Touche
Robert & Valeri Brewster
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Ajit M. Prabhu
Karen C. Brodsky
William Donovan Jr.
Deloitte & Touche
Infineum USA L.P.
Deloitte & Touche
Paul Costello Wells Fargo
John T. Crisan Johnson & Johnson
Mary Czachowski Liberty Mutual
Richard Daigle C. R. Bard, Inc.
Michael D'Aiuto NuStar Energy L.P.
Paul and Nancy Dango IBM
Jered Davis Linde North America Inc.
Cajetan DeFeo C. R. Bard, Inc.
David Dimmit
2010-2011 LEADERSHIP SIGNATUREGIVE CLUB 2010-2011 LEADERSHIP SIGNATURE CLUB John and Nancy Doyle
Mr. And Mrs. James Harrington
Scott Lowry
Marshall Rajs
Deloitte & Touche
Exxon Mobil Corporation, Retiree
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Pfizer Inc.
Robert Wagner
Paul Duff
David Hartman
Frank Lupisella Jr.
Henry Riordan
Johnson & Johnson
Stop & Shop Supermarkets, Inc.
Chubb & Son
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Wayne Robertson
Leigh Walters
James Eckert
Robert Hasbrouck
Donald Lusardi Jr.
Cathy Engelbert Martin
Robert Hauserman
Deloitte & Touche
Infineum USA L.P.
Walter Erhardt
Valarie Hawkins
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
AT&T
Shirley Mangin
NuStar Energy L.P.
Joan Evans
Bruce Hensinger
Anne Martinson
John Rutowski
Infineum USA L.P.
Linde North America Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
NuStar Energy L.P.
Jack Ferrell
Brenda Hensley
Barbara Marzano
Charles A. Saia
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Deloitte & Touche
John Walcott
Infineum USA L.P.
Kevin Ward
Liberty Transportation & Storage Co.
Patrick Roche Lisa MacGregor
Linde North America Inc.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
John Weiland
State of New Jersey
Timothy Roessler
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Harold Wilkes Jr. Infineum USA L.P.
David Womelsdorf Robbin Woods Linde North America Inc.
Steven Finley
Karen Herbstman
Richard Meade
Deloitte & Touche
Robert Mellen Murali Menon
Gary Fiorino Roger Hornberger Jonathan Hoy
NuStar Energy L.P.
Michael Janicek Rosaleen Kelly
Lawrence Naldi
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Merck & Co., Inc.
David E. Gabbai
Thomas Kennedy Jr.
Joseph Nassif NuStar Energy L.P.
Gretel Kenniff Richard Galiardo
Deloitte & Touche
John Occhipinti Linde North America Inc.
Bank of America
Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Kenniff James Gallagher
Johnson & Johnson
Macy's East
Eric Parker
Robert Stauder
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Charles Payne
Jeffrey R. Stirrat
Jeff Kraus and Laurel Lindner Deloitte & Touche
Wells Fargo
David Kristol
Peter Gavigan
Shane Krska
Linde North America Inc.
Merck & Co., Inc.
Amanda Geno
Daniel LaFever
Linde North America Inc.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Joseph Gershey
Kenneth Lamar
Wells Fargo
Federal Reserve Bank of New York
Linde North America Inc.
Johnson & Johnson
Kristi Payne Benitez
Paul Stockman
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Jack Pederson
Daniel Stricker
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Stephen Penn
Hollister Sykes
Linde North America Inc.
Patrick Perrone Jennifer Goodbody
Craig Landi
Linde North America Inc.
Nationwide Insurance
Linde North America Inc.
Gary Peterson Anthony Gorka
Jacqueline Landwehr
Linde North America Inc.
McKinsey & Company, Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Kevin Phoenix CFM James Grady
Earl Lawson
Ameritrade National
Linde North America Inc.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Joseph Porto II Rochelle Green
Ken Lew
United Way of Greater Union County
Linde North America Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Richard Potthoff Henri Lipmanowicz
Linde North America Inc.
Alison Little
William Pursley
IBM
Linde North America Inc.
Scott Littlejohn
Kieran Quinn
Bank of America
Prudential Financial Corp
C. R. Bard, Inc. Linde North America Inc.
Barbara H. Harmon Macy's East
Paul Spellissy Elizabeth A. Stapleton
John Garone
Robert Griscom
Deloitte & Touche
Angel L. Ortiz Jr.
Linde North America Inc.
Daniel Gregoire
Gregg and Janey Smith
Eugene Kilik
Elizabeth Garcia Infineum USA L.P.
Linde North America Inc.
Infineum USA L.P.
John Koerwer
Johnson & Johnson
David Smedley
Stephen O'Hearn
Christopher Ganser C. R. Bard, Inc.
Robert l. Zocca Lenore Silver
Deloitte & Touche
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Merck & Co., Inc.
Linde North America Inc.
Kenneth Flessner
Deloitte & Touche
Jane Zislin Carol Shichman
Nicholas Musich
NuStar Energy L.P.
United Way of Greater Union County
Deloitte & Touche
Linde North America Inc.
Ted Fitzgerald
Christopher Ziemian Jeff Scheckner
Linda Milburn-Pyle
Daniel Fisher
TD Bank
UPS
Merck & Co., Inc.
Tempil-ITW Linde North America Inc.
Brian Ziemba Suki Sayasith
Frank Hogan Jr.
Wachovia
Merck & Co., Inc.
C. R. Bard, Inc.
Wells Fargo Linde North America Inc.
Alan Wyosnick Arthur Santora
Andrew and Cynthia Hickey Mary Grace Finn
Judi Salvato Assurant, Inc.
AT&T
Linde North America Inc.
Satish Tamhankar Linde North America Inc.
Florence Thauvin Infineum USA L.P.
George Thayer C. R. Bard, Inc.
Katherine Titus Aegon
Ruth Tumbokon Johnson & Johnson
Thomas Ucko
We regret any errors or omissions. List current as of Sept. 1
Mario Valenciano Merck & Co., Inc.
Mark Vanarendonk Merck & Co., Inc.
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ADVOCATE United Way affinity groups are collaborations of donors with shared interests who are committed to significantly improving the quality of life in our region through focused philanthropic giving, advocacy and volunteering.
AALI’s “Making A Mark” Black History Month Celebration
AALI AFRICAN AMERICAN LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE is a network of dedicated African-American leaders who marshal their resources to address the most pressing issues in the African-American community. AALI’s mission is to mobilize the caring power of the AfricanAmerican community to improve AfricanAmerican lives in Union County.
HISPANIC LEADERSHIP ADVISORY COUNCIL is focused on ensuring that members of the Hispanic community have full access to United Way's network of programs and services as well as assessing and addressing critical health and human service needs.
L-R: Dr. Raymond Winbush, Film Consultant and Director of the Institute for Urban Research at Morgan State University; Jasmin Tigget, Film Writer and Producer; Nicole Franklin, Film Writer and Producer; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Greater Union County
United Way of Greater Union County’s African American Leadership Initiative (AALI) hosted their signature “Making a Mark” Black History Month Celebration on Friday, February 25th at Kean University’s STEM Building. AGL/Elizabethtown Gas and Atlantic Federal Credit Union served as the host sponsors. This year, the event successfully raised over $9,200 through ticket sales and sponsorship. Proceeds from the 2011 “Making a Mark” will be used towards programs and initiatives that advance the well being of African-Americans in Union County. Over 80 patrons came out to network, support and indulge in great food. The evening’s program consisted of a screening of the short-film documentary Little Brother: When Things Fall Apart written and produced by Nicole Franklin and Jasmin Tigget. The film looked at black boys from Camden, NJ as young as nine years old, for a one-on-one conversation demystifying what society tends to rob them of: LOVE.
L-R: Brianna Adams, New Jersey Orators; Khalid Briggs, New Jersey Orators; Kim Parris, New Jersey Orators Coach; Samir Graves, New Jersey Orators; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Greater Union County
After the screening, guests participated in a panel discussion with the film makers and the film consultant, Dr. Raymond Winbush, Director of the Institute for Urban Research at Morgan State University. To learn more about the film Little Brother, visit: http://littlebrotherfilm.wordpress.com
After a brief networking intermission, guests enjoyed inspirational presentations by The New Jersey Orators (NJO) group. Samir Graves, age 10, recited the poem “What Happened to the Dream,” Brianna Adams, age 12, presented the famous words of Sojourner Truth, “Ain’t I a Woman,” and Khalid Briggs, age 17, presented a prose from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. titled “The Purpose of Education.” All three orators received standing ovations for their eloquent presentations. The New Jersey Orators is a non-profit organization, designed for youth from 718 years of age to learn the art of public speaking and effective communication. To learn more about the NJO, visit: http://www.njorators.org/.
HLAC “Latino Innovators” Networking Event community during a networking event at Kean University. The evening focused on connecting the Hispanic community to opportunities within the pharmaceutical industry as well as providing important information regarding volunteerism, civic engagement and higher education. WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL brings together dynamic women from businesses, government, education, healthcare and other organizations to help keep our community safe and thriving. WLC participants plan networking events and develop ways to address local issues that affect our community. For more information on our Affinity groups please go to www.uwguc.org and click on the” In Our Community” tab.
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L-R: Pat Reyes,President, (MHO) Merck Hispano Organization; Martha Bahamon, President, (HLAC) Hispanic Leadership Advisory Council; Ivonne Diaz-Claisse, President, (HISPA) Hispanics Inspiring Students Performance and Achievement
Nearly 60 people turned out to take advantage of the opportunities being offered. To begin the event, Kean students and alumni were invited to a special workshop on the pharmaceutical industry. Following that, the general reception began with author, and HISPA Role Model, Rod Colón hosting a panel discussion featuring: MHO president, Pat Reyes; Martha Bahamón, Chair of UWGUC HLAC, Kean University’s Elis Sosa; and Assemblywoman Annette Quijano.
United Way of Greater Union County’s (UWGUC) Hispanic Leadership Advisory Council (HLAC) teamed up with Hispanics Inspiring Students’ Performance and Achievement (HISPA), the Merck Hispanos Organization (MHO) and Kean University to create a unique networking opportunity for the Hispanic Community. “Latino Innovators: Leadership ABC” showcased leaders from academia, business and the
“We were thrilled that so many people came out to support this event,” said Martha L. Bahamón, Chair of HLAC and a member of UWGUC’s Board of Trustees.“By working together with HISPA, MHO and Kean University, we’ve created a unique academic and professional partnership to help provide career opportunities and advancement for the Latino community.”
ADVOCATE United Way of Greater Union County Hosts “Women In Power” Conference On Saturday, October 9, 2010, United Way of Greater Union County (UWGUC) hosted the “Women In Power” Conference at Kean University. UWGUC was the recipient of the 2010 Linking Juvenile Females to Resources and Services grant from the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission. More than 300 “at-risk” girls, ages 13-17 from across the state of New Jersey, residing in Essex, Hudson, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Somerset, and Union counties attended the event. Morning keynote speaker, Paula T. Dow, New Jersey State Attorney General, delivered a tangible message of inspiration to the girls. Susan Shapiro Barash, author of the bestseller, “Toxic Friends,” served as the lunchtime keynote and provided the girls with an indepth exploration of female friendship and a guide to help women extricate themselves from damaging friendships and create more fulfilling ones. The remainder of the day consisted of a variety of workshops covering topics designed to empower young women and provide them with the resources needed to make responsible decisions. Conference topics included: healthy lifestyles, relationships, goals and visions, positive body image and self-esteem, etiquette and professionalism just to name a few. The advice offered from both the keynote speakers and workshop presenters served as an opportunity to help these young women learn more about themselves and help maximize their life choices.
“The Juvenile Justice Commission was pleased to be able to support United Way of Greater Union County’s Women in Power conference. Through the Governor’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee, funds were made available to provide this unique opportunity that empowers young women and provides them with the necessary tools needed to succeed in today’s world,” said Executive Director Veleria N. Lawson. “If we can show young people the vast experiences that lie ahead, we keep them out of the juvenile justice system and on the road to success.” “United Way is proud to have hosted such a successful event in which young women throughout the State of New Jersey were impacted and able to acquire skills and insight on how to be future leaders, said James W. Horne Jr., President & CEO of United Way of Greater Union County. “We believe empowerment through awareness and action help to form a foundation. It will help these young women build a balanced sense of self and set a positive course for their future.” The conference was funded by the New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission (JJC) through the Governor's Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (JJDP) Committee. The JJC, which is the designated planning authority for the allocation of federal grant funds, works with the JJDP Committee to identify appropriate programs, award funds and monitor success.
, TOXIC Susan Shapiro Barash,Best Selling Author Friendships
Conference Attendees
FRIENDS: The
Antidote for Women Stuck in Complicated
L-R: Kylthia
J. Roberts, Manager, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Unit, The New Jerse y Juvenile Justice Commiss ion; Paula T. Dow, New Jersey State Attorney General; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Grea ter Union County; Janice Kovach, Former Director of New Jersey Divis ion of Women; Danielle L. Scott, Gender Specific Services Coordinator, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Com mission, The Juvenile Justice and Delinquen cy Prevention Unit
erence rney General, delivering conf
e Atto Paula T. Dow, New Jersey Stat Keynote address
Conference Brea
kout Session
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ADVOCATE NJ4HAITI help of partners like United Way and Union County College, JPM has also been able to provide grief counseling, health screenings and tutoring lessons to over 350 families and 80 individuals now registered at the Family Success Center.
On January 12, 2010 an earthquake registering 7.0, centered 16 miles from Port-au-Prince, tore Haiti apart. Scenes of devastation shocked the world and moved people into action. A partnership of government agencies, non-profit organizations, faith-based agencies, businesses, and citizens, instantly came together and New Jersey for Haiti was formed. The network immediately began preparing to assist with recovery and rebuilding efforts. United Way of Greater Union County (UWGUC) was appointed to serve as NJ4Haiti’s fiduciary agent and has helped to raise $163, 362 to provide emergency food, shelter and other disaster relief resources to Haiti and to Jefferson Park Ministries (JPM). JPM, a UWGUC Family Success Center based strongly in the Haitian community of Elizabeth, has worked tirelessly to welcome evacuees and help them acclimate to their new world.
Touching Lives in Haiti In August 2011, UWGUC’s President & CEO, James W. Horne Jr. went on a mission to Haiti with a group of NJ4Haiti volunteers. For seven days, Horne witnessed first-hand how the efforts and contributions of Union County residents and those of our neighboring communities were impacting the country. The group visited a number of orphanages including Grace Village Orphanage, where volunteers prepared and cooked meals for over 400 children. Another visit included St. Marc’s village where the group entertained the children with music, dance as well as arts & crafts projects. Everyone shared in the laughter and joy of the children who were filled with positive energy. While most of the projects were at orphanages, one did include a visit to Mountain Top Ministries, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting the people of Haiti by creating spiritual education, providing quality medical care and training Haitian ministers.
A Year Later On February 1, 2011, JPM reported the successes achieved the year following the earthquake. Catherine Saintilien, Executive Director of JPM, noted that the center’s goal was to be the voice, heart and hands of the evacuee community. Since the earthquake, JPM has served over 1,400 evacuees; helping them with everything from food and housing assistance to ESL classes. With the
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The eye-opening and heartfelt experiences witnessed by Mr. Horne have prepared him for another trip in December 2011. He will be on-site at those orphanages visited this past summer and will assist NJ4Haiti volunteers with a holiday gift distribution project. “We have done much since the earthquake, but there is still much more to do,” said Mr. Horne. “United Way will continue our work in Haiti by helping rebuild the lives of those affected, serving the people with empathy, empowering our partners to support the cause and committing to our mission of strengthening families to build and sustain stronger communities throughout the country.”
VOLUNTEER Volunteers reaching out a hand to one and influencing the condition of all Every day, ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things by volunteering. Volunteers are needed every day in our community and you can help. There is no one cause for the issues we face – and no single solution. When we LIVE UNITED, we can make a real difference. Whether you participate individually, join in our National Volunteer Week or Season of Caring programs, you help us act as one to take on the problems facing our community. National Volunteer Week is always a time for our corporate partners to shine. This April, United Way of Greater Union County organized an array of volunteer opportunities for groups looking to inspire others by addressing needs throughout Union County. Over 70 volunteers, including United Way corporate partners such as Ernst & Young, Linde North America Inc., Merck & Co. Inc. and Bank of America, loaned their time and talents to a variety of projects throughout the county. This year’s projects ranged from redecorating and painting at the Salvation Army in Elizabeth, cleaning up the grounds at American Red Cross in Summit and gardening at the Y in Union. Another annual volunteer opportunity is Season of Caring. Every year, UWGUC mobilizes its volunteers and community partners to lend a hand and support those in need during the holidays. Apart from drives for food, clothing and toys that distributed over $24,000 worth of donations throughout our area, volunteers played a major role in improving the lives of Union County families in need. United Way corporate partners, Comcast, Infineum USA L.P. and NuStar Energy LP, were among those that donated their time and talent to give back to the community by serving in soup kitchens, food pantries and other social service organizations. No matter how you would like to be involved, United Way of Greater Union County is able to provide you with volunteer opportunities to match your talents, interest and schedule. Individuals can volunteer for a few hours, a day or on a regular basis. Group volunteers enjoy the satisfaction of producing significant positive change in a short amount of time while building friendships and a connection to the community. Corporations are always welcome to choose projects for their groups. Corporate volunteer projects are excellent opportunities for team building and enhancing the morale of any organization.
The Volunteer Center at United Way of Greater Union County provides a variety of services to organizations, groups and individuals seeking volunteer placement.Through an interactive website and online database with hundreds of volunteer opportunities suitable for individuals and groups, the Volunteer Center is responsible for matching prospective volunteers with the organizations and agencies that utilize them. The Volunteer Center also provides professional development and training to volunteer managers to strengthen their organizations’ capacity; offers customized volunteer projects for corporate, public and private groups with the United Way of Greater Union County’s partner agencies; and provides community service projects and internship placements for students. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! To learn more, please visit www.unitedwayvolunteers.org or call Jeff Scheckner, Community Engagement Manger, at jeff.scheckner@uwguc.org or call 908-353-7171 x138.
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SPECIAL EVENTS United Way of Greater Union County’s 2011 Celebration! Raises over $75,000 United Way of Greater Union County (UWGUC) hosted its annual Celebration! event at Kean University’s STEM Building on Thursday, April 28th. Over 160 attendees came out to support the honorees and indulge in an upscale evening of signature cocktails and gourmet indulgences. C.R. Bard, Inc. and Linde North America, Inc., served as this year’s host sponsors.
L-R: Elizabeth and Joseph Wilf, Humanitarian Award Recipients; Walter “Woody” Erhardt, Board Chair, United Way of Greater Union County; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Greater Union County
This year, United Way successfully raised over $75,000 through ticket sales, sponsorship and silent auction/tricky tray. UWGUC’s Annual Celebration! brings together United Way supporters and partner organizations to honor the work of noted people and organizations in Union County. It also serves as a forum to celebrate the accomplishments of the previous year and the ending of the 2010 - 2011 campaign. Joseph & Elizabeth Wilf, of the Wilf Foundation, received a new award and the highest honor United Way could give– The Humanitarian Award. The Humanitarian Award presented to those whose lifetime or long-term achievements exemplify commitment and dedication toward creating positive change both in Union County and throughout the world. The Wilf’s clearly demonstrate extraordinary leadership and dedication in support of philanthropic causes. They are true examples of people who display passion and commitment to their community by unselfishly giving back.
L-R: Frank Raudelunas; Dr. Thomas Brown, Dell Raudelunas Spirit of Caring Award Recipient; Walter “Woody” Erhardt, Board Chair, United Way of Greater Union County; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Greater Union County
Dr. Thomas Brown, former President of Union County College, accepted the Dell Raudelunas Spirit of Caring Award. Dr. Brown has been actively involved in higher education for over 40 years. As President of Union County College from 1990 to 2010, he C.R. BARD Inc., Outstanding Corporate Partner Award Recipient
was instrumental in overseeing 50% increase in total enrollment and led the College to the largest capital campaign in NJ community college history. During his tenure, Dr. Brown was a constant supporter and friend of United Way and worked with the organization on many issues including the Union County Needs Assessment. The Outstanding Corporate Partner award is given to a company in Union County that exhibits extraordinary commitment to helping Union County and its residents. Past recipients have included Infineum USA LP and Elizabethtown Gas. Vice President, Regulatory Affairs of C.R. Bard, Inc., Patricia Christian accepted The Outstanding Corporate Partner Award on behalf of C.R. Bard, Inc. and Patrick Murphy, President of Linde North America, Inc., accepted on behalf of Linde.
Linde North America, Inc., Outstanding Corporate Partner Award Recipient
L-R: Larry Lockhart; Senator Raymond Lesniak, Legislative Champion Award Recipient; Walter “Woody” Erhardt, Board Chair, United Way of Greater Union County; James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO, United Way of Greater Union County
C.R. Bard, Inc. is a worldwide leader in healthcare products, programs and services for the management of urology, oncology, vascular disease and surgical specialty areas. BARD is committed to advancing patient care with research and resources for designing, developing and delivering unique, innovative technologies. Dedicated to building communities in Union County, Linde North America Inc. is a member of The Linde Group, a world-leading gases and engineering company. The Linde Group boasts more than 48,000 employees working in nearly 100 countries, including the United States where its headquarters for the North American business is located in Murray Hill.
L-R: Walter “Woody” Erhardt, Board Chair, United Way of Greater Union County; Ruth Lebau Brewster, Community Cornerstone Award Recipient
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L-R: Walter “Woody” Erhardt, Board Chair, United Way of Greater Union County; Martin Shupack, Community Cornerstone Award Recipient
The Community Cornerstone Award is given to those who LIVE UNITED not only in their respective communities, but in Union County as a whole. These individuals have given their time, talent, and resources to make a difference in the lives of others. Their good works will have a lasting impact and has contributed greatly to advancing the common good for all. This year’s awardees were Ruth Lebau Brewster and Martin Shupack.
SPECIAL EVENTS Ruth Lebau Brewster has long been a part of the family of United Way of Greater Union County, which was founded and led for many years by her parents, Harry and Mary Lebau. Ruth attended Indiana University, from which she graduated Phi Beta Kappa as the top woman graduate of all the colleges of the university. Subsequently, she received her MSW from Columbia University on a full fellowship. In 1973, she became a real estate agent with The Boyle Company, where she rose to become a vice-president in charge of real estate sales and then a partner in Degnan-Boyle Realtors. In 1986, Ruth opened the Brewster Realty Company. In addition to being personally involved with United Way for over 50 years as a campaign chairwoman and board member, Ruth has been a groundbreaking leader in Union County organizations. Martin Shupack has led a life devoted to volunteerism and helping his fellow man. Martin’s volunteerism first gained notice when he arranged for nearly 400 underprivileged youths to attend the 1964 World’s Fair. During the Vietnam War, his Project Concern filled a plane with donated medication and equipment for children displaced by the war. From starting the first handicapped Club Scout troop in the country to helping launch “Trick or Treat for UNICEF” with the Jaycees, Martin has always brought leadership and determination to his volunteer work. A founding member of both the South Plainfield Community Chest and
Parents of United Family, Martin has been involved with United Way since 1960, including sitting on the United Way of Greater Union County’s board for over 45 years. Martin is also a lifetime member of the Jaycees and PTA. The Legislative Champion Award is given to those legislators who LIVE UNITED not only in their respective community, but in Union County as a whole. This year’s inaugural award was presented to Senator Raymond Lesniak, in honor of the time, talent and resources he has committed to making a difference in the lives of others through his work as a champion for Union County and lifelong service to the community. Throughout his career, Senator Lesniak has championed a wide range of legislative efforts including the Environmental Cleanup Responsibility Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act and the Air Pollution Control Act. In 2007, he led efforts to abolish the death penalty in New Jersey. Most recently, Senator Lesiniak has been at the forefront of efforts to pass legislation to allow same-sex couples to marry in the State of New Jersey. The proceeds from this year’s event will support United Way of Greater Union County’s Community Impact Fund which focuses on Health, Education, Income and Family Strengthening related programs.
Joseph & Elizabeth Wilf presented with United Way of Greater Union County’s Humanitarian Award The Humanitarian Award, created to be the organization’s highest honor, was presented to the Wilf’s in honor of their lifelong commitment to creating positive change in both Union County and throughout the world. Beyond their years of support for United Way, Joseph and Elizabeth Wilf have long demonstrated extraordinary leadership and dedication in support of philanthropic causes.
Elizabeth and Joseph Wilf, Humanitarian Award Recipients
Joseph is an active member of The Jewish Federations of North America Board of Trustees and one of the original founders of the American Society for Yad Vashem. Additionally, he is a Trustee of the World Jewish Agency, Yeshiva University and Kean University. Mr. Wilf also serves as the a founder of the US Holocaust Museum and past president of the Jewish Federation of Central New Jersey, The Jewish Family Services of Central New Jersey and the Jewish Educational Center of Elizabeth. Mrs. Wilf serves on the board of trustees of Yeshiva University Stern College for Women Both Joseph and Elizabeth helped found the Wilf Family Foundation which supports many social and educational institutions and causes such as United Way of Greater Union County, The Jewish Federations of North America, St. Barnabas Hospital, Trinitas Regional Medical Center and The American Cancer Society.
The Wilf Family
United Way of Greater Union County was pleased to present the inaugural Humanitarian Award to Joseph and Elizabeth Wilf, at its annual Celebration! gala. We were extremely proud to be able to pay tribute to these outstanding philanthropists.
United Way of Greater Union County wishes to thank Joseph and Elizabeth Wilf for their years of selfless dedication to advancing the common good throughout the community. They have shown us all how to create a legacy of positive change that will improve lives in Union County for years to come.
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SPECIAL EVENTS “A Taste of Cranford” Event Raises Over $18,000 On Sunday, March 6, 2011 over 340 patrons filled the Cranford Community Center for United Way of Greater Union County’s (UWGUC) Cranford Community Council 2nd Annual Taste of Cranford. The event generated more than $18,000 to benefit UWGUC’s Special Response Fund. This year’s designee is Cranford Family Care. The 2011 Dining Sponsor for the event was Riverside Financial Services; other event partners included Downtown Cranford Management and the Cranford Chamber of Commerce. Over 60 patrons attended the pre-event VIP session, a special feature for this year, which included a private cheese and wine tasting hosted by Cranford businesses Cheese…Please! and The Wine Seller. “The success of this event again demonstrates that Cranford’s residents and businesses care for their neighbors and the community,” stated James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO of United Way of Greater Union County. “Their generosity and the leadership of the Cranford Community Council enable organizations like ours to continue our work.” “Given the resounding success of the 2nd Annual Taste of Cranford, it is hoped that the next one will be an greater success, said Jerry DeNigris, Chairman of the Cranford Community Council. “We are truly grateful to all of the restaurants and volunteers who made this event possible and such a great success.” The 2nd annual Taste of Cranford restaurant participants included: A Toute Heure, Avenue East, Boulevard Five72, Breadsmith, Café Lia Bistro, Cheese…Please! Climax Brewery, CocoaFete & Parties, Cranford Hotel, Dittrick's Wine, Don Q Rum, Garlic Rose, Gourmet Deli, II Gabbiano, II Giardino, Kilkenny House, Marino’s Fish Restaurant, Mizo Sushi, NJWineSeller.com, Office Bar & Grill, Pairings, Perroti's Meats, Pinho's Bakery, Purple Dragon Co-Op, Scaturro’s Pizzeria & Café, ShopRite of Clark, The Sugar House, Triestina Ristorante and Vanilla Bean Creamery.
“Maidens in May” Plainfield House Tour Raises Over $4,700 As a result of the closing of Plainfield’s Muhlenberg Regional Center, medical transportation is a growing issue in Plainfield. United Way raised over $4,700 from the tour and a large portion of the proceeds will go towards the Plainfield Medical Transportation Fund. A check will be presented to the Transportation Fund recipients, the Plainfield Rescue Squad and Neighborhood Health Services in early July. Event sponsors this year included: Investors Savings Bank, The Burney Group, The Pillars Bed and Breakfast, Lola Reed of Caldwell Bankers, Rapp’s Pharmacy and Anderson Publishing. Special thanks to all of our other supporters: Grace Episcopal Church for generously hosting the reception; Wendy Burney of the Burney Group for coordinating the homes in the tour; Valerie Hoboush for enhancing the home descriptions for the brochure; Lamont Blowe and Nancy Fiske of The Pillars for organizing the menu at the reception; the Plainfield YMCA for providing meeting space, Brenda Anderson who helped with preparations for the tour and training of volunteers; and Pat Kavanaugh Turner for sponsoring the transportation for volunteers and homeowners at a preview tour.
Over 190 visitors from all over New Jersey and neighboring states participated in the United Way’s Plainfield Community Council 3rd annual “Maidens in May” house tour. The tour showcased the historic and architectural significance of six houses in Plainfield. A reception followed the tour at Grace Episcopal Church located on Cleveland Avenue.
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Thank you to the following restaurants, who were gracious enough to provide us with a copious amount of food, beverages, and desserts to feed the more than 180 guest at our post tour reception: Blackberries Catering, Café Vivace, Dairy Queen, Ferraro’s Pizza, Giovanna’s, T&L – Leon’s Catering, Rita’s Water Ice, Scotchwood Diner, The Spain Inn, The Stone House and ShopRite of Clark. A final thanks to the give area businesses that helped sell our tickets; Swain’s Gallery, The Pillars Bed and Breakfast, Two River Community Bank of Fanwood, Café Vivace and The Plainfield Music Store.
SPECIAL EVENTS United Way of Greater Union County Commemorates United Way’s Golf Classic Raises over the 20th Anniversary of Linden Youth for United Way $30,000 for Community Programs In 1991, United Way of Greater Union County formed a partnership with Linden High School to form Youth for United Way, whose mission, through service-learning, offered students a unique opportunity to involve themselves with community service projects. Twenty years later, the students, freshmen through senior grade level, have actively kept the mission of the program strong. The participants of Youth for United Way have successfully run a number of different food, clothing and toy drives for homeless shelters throughout Union County. They have also hosted United Way Day of Caring projects where they prepared dinners for residents of domestic violence shelters, completed beautification projects at various agencies and read to children at a local day care centers. The students have hosted yearly Sensitivity Training Workshops with teenagers from the Katzenback School for the Deaf and have supported The March of Dimes through walking for the cause and raising over $18,000. The dedication and consistency of the volunteer efforts from the Linden Youth for United Way students set the foundation for the beginning of their nationally recognized Learn and Serve America program that acknowledged them as a New Jersey Service Learning Leader School and national recognition by the White House and Congress in 2000. Jennifer Kunsman-Romanoff, a Linden High School alumnus and first president of Linden Youth for United Way, attended the commemoration and spoke about how much of a positive impact her involvement as a youth made on her adult life. She thanked Esther Paden, Linden teacher and Program Coordinator of Linden Youth for United Way, for seeing the leadership potential in her to be the first president and encouraged the students to continue their efforts and share with the classmates the importance of giving back to their community.
Over 90 individuals and representatives of businesses throughout Union County hit the golf course at Shackamaxon Golf & Country Club in Scotch Plains to support United Way of Greater Union County’s (UWGUC) work in making a difference in people’s lives and addressing critical community needs. “This event’s continued success demonstrates again and again that Union County’s residents and businesses care for their neighbors and the community,” said James W. Horne, Jr., President & CEO of UWGUC. “Their generosity and leadership enable organizations like ours to continue our work.”
Students who have participated in Youth for United Way and the Learn and Serve Program are now scattered across the country and are working as medical doctors, pharmacists, teachers and in countless other professions. Participants of the programs have made a positive impact on their fellow students and help to enhance their civic attitudes and involvement in volunteer service.
United Way’s 2011 Golf Classic and dinner reception generated more than $30,000 to support essential programs and services in Union County. Enterprise Rent-a-Car was the leading sponsor of this year’s event.
The commemoration event also incorporated a leadership and mentoring presentation based on “The Validating Mentor” and “The Validating Mentor Workbook” by Westfield resident Gail Cassidy.
“We are delighted to be on board and support United Way because their mission aligns with the goals of our organization,” stated Regional Vice President of Enterprise Rent-a-Car and UWGUC’s Board Chair, Walter Erhardt.
“We were thrilled to have the mentoring program hosted at the high school”, said Esther Paden. “Those that completed the program said that it was a rewarding experience that allowed them an opportunity to build on their leadership skills, share experiences, create memories and develop friendships. We look forward to doing this again next year.” Gail Cassidy, the program’s author, explained “This mentoring program assists young people in their search for a direction in life. They need some help to discover their personal gifts and talents, as well as learn how to use them. This program is a wonderful example of empowering youth to support their peers. We salute the collaborative work of United Way and Linden High School.” The program was funded, through United Way of Greater Union County, by a grant from the Thomas Glasser Foundation of Westfield, a non-profit organization established in memory of a 9/11 victim.
UWGUC develops and supports programs that measurably improve the lives of local children and families. United Way’s Family Success Centers is an example of how the organization works to build stronger, more vibrant and healthy families by providing access to services based on needs. The Family Success Centers are community based, family-centered neighborhood gathering places where any community resident can go for information and services. Additional sponsors of the 2011 annual golf classic included: AGL/Elizabethtown Gas, Conoco Phillips, C.R. Bard Inc., Comcast, Duane Morris, IBM, Infineum USA LP, JJ Bergamo Auto & Tire Center of Linden, Lindabury, McCormick, Estabrook & Cooper, Linde North America Inc., LJL Financials, NuStar Energy L.P., PSE&G, TD Bank, Total Lubricants USA, Inc., Union Economic Development Corp. (UCEDC), Urban League of Union County, and YMCA of Eastern Union County. UWGUC thanks their Hole-in-One Sponsor JMK BMW SAAB of Springfield as well as Famous Grouse Single Malt Scotch for their support.
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Text UWGUC to 50555 to donate $10.00 to United Way of Greater Union County’s Special Response Fund Proceeds raised will go towards helping Union County families in need of emergency assistance for food, clothing and shelter.
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NEED HELP....DIAL 2-1-1 United Way’s free telephone and web referral service connects residents to the resources they need. This service is confidential and available 24 hours-a-day / 7 days a week, in more than 150 languages. 2-1-1’s comprehensive database details resources such as state and federal programs; energy assistance programs sponsored by energy providers; non-profit organizations that have made it their mission to help fulfill an unmet need; and local community resources. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone or visit the website at www.nj211.org On any given day 2-1-1 offers access to: • Resources for Basic Human Needs: food banks, clothing, shelters, rent assistance, affordable housing, utility assistance • Physical and Mental Health Resources: medical information lines, crisis intervention services, support groups, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, rehabilitation, health insurance programs, Medicaid and Medicare, maternal health, children's health insurance programs • Employment Support: unemployment benefits, financial assistance, job training, transportation assistance, education programs • Support for Older Americans and Persons with Disabilities: home health care, adult day care, Meals on Wheels, respite care, transportation and homemaker services • Support for Children, Youth and Families: Quality childcare, after school programs, Head Start, family resource centers, summer camps and recreation programs, mentoring, tutoring, protective services • Volunteer opportunities and donations
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