Volunteer Center of Bergen County

Homeless Vets Helped by Many

2012-01-27T09:47:00.000-05:00

Generous donors contributed over $3,000 worth of clothing, toiletries and gift cards to the Volunteer Center of Bergen County's recent collection on behalf of area homeless veterans. The drive was part of a national campaign associated with the Martin Luther King Day of Service to assist veterans, and was the single largest donation of goods ever received by the Bergen County Department of Veterans Services.

“It was very heart warming to see people of all ages and backgrounds donating items for homeless vets,” said Barbara Wiederecht, organizer and director of the Center's RSVP program. To make a donation to help a homeless veteran, call 201-336-6325.

Stay Out of the Cold and Volunteer from Home

2012-01-25T06:04:00.000-05:00

Recently, our national affiliate HandsOn, posted a blog about ways to volunteer in the winter.

Here you can view that blog and get some great ideas of what you can do from home this winter to give back to our community.

Some examples are to:

Plan your outdoor springtime service project NOW!
Gather gently used clothes, toys, kitchen stuff, etc. that you can donate or sell at a yard sale to raise money for your favorite charity!
Try micro-volunteering!
Use your artistic or crafty talent!

It Ends Today

2012-01-23T10:48:00.000-05:00

It Ends Today promotes anti-bullying awareness in schools and communities throughout the country by awarding scholarships to students who talk publicly about their experiences with bullying and its effects on them. A nonprofit organization, It EndsToday was formed with one purpose: to end bullying now. It Ends Today also encourages teenagers to speak out against bullying via the internet, in hopes of spreading its message more efficiently.

Christopher Rim, high school senior, founder and president, started It Ends Today during his sophomore year at the Academies@Englewood. He also reached out to students at Academy of the Holy Angels, in Demarest, to establish a program, and since then It Ends Today has developed into an organized, established non- profit.

It Ends Today offers presentations about different kinds of bullying, the risks and consequences of each, and methods used to tackle bullying. Presentations and interactive activities are geared for a variety of audiences, including students of all ages, parents and educators. All presentations, which are live and utilize multimedia, are typically performed by students, but can also include guest speakers and range from one-hour assemblies to full-day events.

In an effort to solicit the help of student peers in spreading the message, It Ends Today, Inc. also offers a $2,500 scholarship opportunity! Students everywhere are invited to create and submit a video of themselves speaking about the effects of bullying, personal experiences, and more. The creator of the video that is deemed most inspiring will receive the scholarship.

For more information about It Ends Today, Inc. and its scholarship opportunity, please visit www.itendstoday.org.

Business Volunteer Council Celebrates 12th Anniversary

2012-01-20T11:16:00.000-05:00

Being successful in business is about more than doing well. It’s also about doing good.

Members and supporters of the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC) will celebrate twelve successful years of service to the community on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 with a cocktail reception at The Elan, 111 Route 46 West in Lodi, from 6 pm to 8 pm. Tickets to the event can be obtained by calling Tess Tomasi at 201-489-9454 Ext. 114 or email: ttomasi@bergenvolunteers.org.

Since its founding in 2000, the BVC has mobilized tens of thousands of corporate volunteers to help children and families by addressing pressing issues like hunger, literacy and education, delivering over $1.2 million in resources to the community.

Membership in the BVC provides companies with opportunity for networking, professional development, community impact, recognition as a good corporate citizen and free or discounted fees for BVC seminars, events and service activities.

“Now is a great time for companies to join the BVC. We’re rolling out a dynamic new program, and will announce details at our anniversary event on January 24th,” says Amanda Missey, BVC Manager. “BVC member companies will have free access to nationally-recognized leaders in the realm of corporate social responsibility. Their employees will have more opportunities for meaningful hands-on involvement, including county-wide volunteer events and customized projects. Employee participation in hands-on volunteer projects are a great way to increase their satisfaction, build strong teams and get recognition for the company’s community involvement efforts.”

Companies interested in finding out how the BVC can help them to position themselves as effective corporate citizens can call 201-489-9454 Ext. 114 by January 20th, to register to attend the anniversary event, or to get additional information about the BVC.

Expand Your Universe. Mentor.

2012-01-18T09:39:00.002-05:00

January 2012 marks the eleventh Annual National Mentoring Month.

The Harvard Mentoring Project of the Harvard School of Public Health and MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership jointly created National Mentoring Month, and are collaborating with the HandsOn Network, as well as other non profit groups to reach out to Americans to “Expand Your Universe. Mentor”.

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County, which is the local affiliate of the Hands On Network, has been sponsoring mentoring programs for more than 30 years, and is currently seeking men and women age 18 and up to become volunteer mentors to meet the increasing demand.

Through our Mentoring Youth program, caring men and women provide guidance, friendship and support to youth age 5-18 who have suffered abuse or neglect. Currently over 100 girls and boys are waiting to be matched with someone with whom they can develop a positive relationship. There is an especially great need for men to mentor boys. The next training is in April, call Francine to learn more, 201-489-9454, ext. 111.

Mentoring Moms are women who offer their experience and life lessons to help isolated and overwhelmed mothers of all ages. The volunteers spend time with mothers who are having difficulty coping with parenting, finances, child discipline, and facing daily challenges. The mentors listen, share ideas and offer encouragement, so that the mothers can learn to cope and, in the process, improve their lives and those of their children. Training begins on January 30. Call Susan to register, 201-489-9454, ext. 124.

Free six-week, 15 hour training sessions are provided to mentors in both programs. During this time, the volunteers take workshops on developing listening skills, communication and problem solving. Guest speakers such as current mentors and social services case workers share their experiences so that new mentors have the background and knowledge to help support their mentees. All mentors undergo a comprehensive screening process which includes fingerprinting and other background checks.

Both programs also need Bi-lingual Spanish-English volunteers, and both programs will offer training again in April 2012.

Janet Sharma, executive director of the Volunteer Center, says, “To be a mentor, you don’t need any special skills,” says Janet Sharma, the Volunteer Center’s executive director. “You just need to be able to listen and to offer friendship, guidance and encouragement to a child or an overwhelmed mom. And you’ll be amazed by how much you’ll get out of the experience. So, share what you know. Become a mentor.”

“Lunch and Learn” for Volunteer Managers

2012-01-13T09:09:00.000-05:00

Come and join colleagues when the Non Profit Training and Resource Center of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County hosts a Volunteer Managers’ “Lunch and Learn” Roundtable on Thursday, January 19 , from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Volunteer Center.

The Roundtables are free, but you must pre-register. To RSVP, call 201-489-9454 Ext. 118 or sign up online (link) by January 17th.

Bring your own lunch and we’ll provide soft drinks. Driving directions and parking instructions will be e-mailed to registered attendees before each session.

All professionals who work with or manage volunteers in non-profit, corporate, community, governmental or faith-based settings are encouraged to participate. Rountables are offered monthly, providing an opportunity for professional growth and interaction with colleagues as well as a forum for sharing ideas and effective practices. The programs are informal yet interactive, with time for networking and group problem solving activities. Additionally, attendees get updates on programs and services offered by the Volunteer Center to enhance agencies’ volunteer engagement.

“These Roundtables are informational as well as inspirational”, says Debbie Emery, The Center’s director of Community Volunteer Services. “Lively exchanges help participants keep their skills sharp, learn new ideas, and get answers to questions about making the most of their volunteer workforces.”

"I am a Mentor" Day

2012-01-11T06:39:00.000-05:00

Join with mentors and mentoring programs around the country and help inspire others to learn how they can make a difference in the life of a child. Now in its 11th year, National Mentoring Month focuses attention during January on the need for mentors, as well as how each of us—individuals, businesses, government agencies, schools, faith communities and nonprofits—can work together to increase the number of mentors to assure brighter futures for young people. The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is working wit the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership and the Corporation for National and Community Service to focus attention on the critical need for mentors. This year’s National Mentoring Month theme is Invest in the future. Mentor a child.

How can you help?

1. Share the Facebook event page with other mentors, mentoring programs and supporters of mentoring.

2. In January, change your profile picture to the “I Believe in Mentoring” badge.

3. Post your experience about being a mentor. Here’s a message you can adapt: “Did you know I am a mentor with [program]? Being a mentor to [first name of child] is rewarding and has helped me to [have fun, make a difference, learn new things, be a better parent, gain a better understanding of other cultures, etc.]. You can make a difference in as little as an hour a week. Find a mentoring opportunity in your local community today at www.serve.gov/mentor.”

4. Be sure to tag your program in your posts so people can learn more about the program where you mentor.

5. Feel free to post comments and suggestions on this page so other mentors can learn how you are promoting mentoring during National Mentoring Month.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Day of Service

2012-01-09T09:07:00.000-05:00

Make January 16, 2012 a day “on”, not a day “off”.

Back in 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Holiday as a national day of volunteer service, asking Americans from all walks of life to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy by taking an active role in their communities -- to make it a day “on” instead of a day “off.”

“This year’s MLK holiday, the first since the opening of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial in Washington, DC, offers a unique opportunity to build on Dr. King’s marvelous legacy by renewing our commitment to the ideals he promoted,” says Janet Sharma, executive director of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. “One of these most powerful ideals is service to our communities.

"We encourage individuals and groups to seek out ways to get involved, and we encourage agencies, municipalities and schools to think of projects that can engage people in service as a tribute to Dr. King,” continues Ms. Sharma. Ideas for projects might be include getting a space painted, having closets or pantries organized, or sponsoring a collection of items that agencies need, such as food, office or school supplies, baby or children’s products.

A wealth of ideas can be found at www.mlkday.gov. In addition, the Volunteer Center will be collecting donations of back packs, toiletry items, sweatshirts (size L and XL), and gift cards to Walmart, Shop Rite, McDonald’s, Subway, and Pizza Hut, during the week before the Martin Luther King Holiday, January 9-14, which will be distributed to homeless veterans . Click here to learn more about this project and to find other ideas on how you can get involved locally.

It’s A Wrap!

2012-01-07T09:23:00.001-05:00

The New Year is off to a flying start and the joy of the holiday season is just a blur in the past.

However, we do want to extend a very special thank you to all of the donors and agency staff members who made the 2011 All Wrapped Up Holiday Giving Program a tremendous success for nearly 4,000 people in our community.

More that 800 donors helped 900 individuals and 860 families who needed support for the holidays. Whether you adopted an individual and/or a family, or supported All Wrapped Up through a donation of cash or gift cards, your generosity, kindness and concern are greatly appreciated. Because of you, someone’s holiday was a little brighter, a little happier and a much more special.

So as we put “All Wrapped Up” to rest, we relish in the thought that you were able to Do Good and Feel Good.

Maximize Volunteer Resources!

2012-01-05T11:08:00.000-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is offering a comprehensive, six-hour course in “Essentials of Volunteer Management” on Thursday, January 26 from 9 am to 3 pm at the Volunteer Center.

Participants will “learn the ropes” from initial development to successful achievement, including these critical steps :

Planning the Volunteer Program
Recruitment and Placement
Orientation and Training
Supervision and Recognition
Evaluation of the Program

Effective practices and emerging trends in volunteer management will also be discussed, as will marketing to prospective volunteers and supporters with social media and traditional media, engaging leadership-level volunteers, and targeting recruitment efforts to specific demographic groups.

The economic benefits of an efficiently run volunteer program are obvious. Independent Sector, a Washington coalition of major charities and foundations, places the value of time donated by volunteers at $21.36 per hour, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that nearly 64 million people volunteer an average of 52 hours over a 12 month period. Volunteers can help the engine of your organization hum with productive activity!

A $75 registration fee includes breakfast, lunch and curriculum binder. Participants from Volunteer Center Member Agencies pay only $50; contact the Volunteer Center for more information on becoming a Member Agency. Class size is limited, and the registration deadline is January 20. Enrollment is first-come, first-served, so register now!

For more information about customized training or to register for “Essentials of Volunteer Management”, send an e-mail to: training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call Tess Tomasi at (201) 489-9454 Ext. 114.

Donations Needed for Homeless Veterans

2012-01-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

The Volunteer Center will be partnering with the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services to assist homeless veterans as part of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Beginning Monday, January 9, the Volunteer Center will be accepting donations of backpacks, toiletry kits (toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, soap, comb/brush, razor, shaving cream, small bag to hold items and a set of towels), and sweatshirts -- sizes large and extra large. Gift cards to Walmart, Shop Rite, McDonald’s, Subway, and Pizza Hut are also welcome.

Donors may drop off these items at the Volunteer Center, 64 Passaic Street in Hackensack, during the week of January 9-13, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with evening hours till 7:00 pm on Thursday; and from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 14. Call Barbara at 201-489-9333 or email barbaraw@bergenvolunteers.org for more information. Find out more about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the MKL Day of Service at www.mlkday.gov.

2012-01-01T09:58:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

From everyone at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County!

Help Overwhelmed Moms

2011-12-27T09:16:00.000-05:00

Make a difference in a family’s life! Mentoring Moms, a program of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, trains adult women to work with mothers who are overwhelmed by the challenges of children and life. When a mother is supported by a mentor, the entire family is helped, because mentors become important role models for the mother and the children, as well.

Mothers being mentored through the program say “It is so great to have a friend, someone I can really talk to!” “I have learned so much about raising my son.” “I feel better as a parent and a person since meeting my mentor.”

Mentors are caring women who understand how hard it is to raise children and who want to make life easier for other moms. The moms being mentored are referred through community or family service agencies. The mentors listen, share ideas and offer support as mothers deal with daily challenges of raising children and managing a household.

Registration is now open for Mentoring Moms Winter training of 5 sessions, beginning on Monday, January 30. Training is held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, 64 Passaic Street, Hackensack. Call (201) 489-9454, ext. 123 to find out how you can become a Mentoring Moms volunteer.

Where are you donations going this year?

2011-12-21T09:22:00.000-05:00

These days, it's more important than ever to carefully consider where you send your end-of-year contributions. Since 1966, The Volunteer Center has been effectively and efficiently doing good in Bergen County. Our recent audit shows that 86% of our expenditures support our programs and services, such as:

The "All WrappedUp" Holiday Giving Program, which brings holiday cheer to thousands of our needy neighbors during the holidays.
Mentoring Youth, which trains and supervises mentors for hundreds of children who have suffered abuse, neglect or isolation.
Mentoring Moms, which trains and supervises mentors for low-income mothers struggling to provide for their families.
The Chore Service, in which volunteer handypersons perform minor home repairs to the elderly and disabled - free-of-charge, helping to keep them safe in their homes.
The Non-Profit Training and Resource Center, which helps local non-profits better serve their clients and our community.
Bergen LEADS, which trains the next generation of community leaders.
Community Volunteer Services and RSVP, which link more than 100,000 people with volunteer jobs in our community.

You can be confident that your charitable dollars are well spent when you invest them in the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. Please click here to give a tax-deductible donation now.

THANK YOU for your support, and Happy Holidays!

Rotary District 7490 Helps Buy Van for Chore Service

2011-12-19T09:37:00.000-05:00

When Phil Ball, a member of the Englewood Rotary, found out that we needed to replace one of the vans for our Chore Service, he spearheaded a fundraising effort among several Rotary Clubs in the area. Several clubs in the Disrict 7490, which encomopasses northern New Jersey pitched in, and Chore now has three vans fully in operation, with crews of volunteers performing home repairs that keep the elderly and disabled safe in their homes.

“I felt that this was a worthwhile project, in keeping with the ideals of Rotary,” says Mr. Ball. “The van proudly displays the Rotary ‘wheel’ and is seen in every town in Bergen County. What a great way to show Rotary’s commitment to the community.”

“Phil Ball is a gem, and we are so grateful for his leadership in getting this fundraising effort off the ground," says Janet Sharma, Volunteer Center executive director. "This project is a perfect iteration of the alignment of Rotary's goals and those of the Volunteer Center around service to the community."

For more information about Chore, call 201-489-7790, or visit www.bergenvolunteers.org.

2012 Guide to Volunteering now available!

2011-12-16T09:47:00.001-05:00

The Volunteer Center's updated Guide to Volunteering is hot off the press! The Guide lists hundreds of opportunities for volulnteers of all ages to get involved in the community.

The guide offers tips on how groups can organize their own volunteer projects, how to host a collection drive, ideas for family volunteering and lots of information about student volunteer projects, including listings of exciting websites about youth volunteering and service learning. The Guide features an extensive index cross-referenced by interests, geographic location and time availability, as well as by volunteer jobs that are suitable for high school students, students under age 14, and families who want to volunteer together.

You can purchase a printed copy of the Guide ($5) online here or you may download a free copy right to your own computer (CLICK HERE). For more information please call Volunteer Center, 201-489-9454.

Donations Needed for Homeless Veterans

2011-12-14T09:44:00.000-05:00

The Volunteer Center will be partnering with the Bergen County Division of Veterans Services to assist homeless veterans as part of commeration of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. According to Richard Daul, director of Veterans Service, about one third of the adult homeless population are veterans. Although perfect counts are impossible to come by—the transient nature of homeless populations presents a major difficulty—it is estimated that over 100 veterans are homeless on any given night in Bergen County, and over the course of a year, approximately twice that many can experience homelessness.

In addition to the complex set of factors influencing all homelessness—extreme shortage of affordable housing, liveable income and access to health care—a large number of displaced and at-risk veterans live with lingering effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and substance abuse, which are compounded by a lack of family and social support networks.

Donations of backpacks, toiletry kits (toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, soap, comb/brush, razor, shaving cream, small bag to hold items and a set of towels), sweatshirts sizes large and extra large, and gift cards to Walmart, Shop Rite, McDonald’s, Subway, and Pizza Hut are needed.

Donors can drop off these items at the Volunteer Center’s offices, 64 Passaic Street in Hackensack, during the week of January 9 to 13, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, with evening hours till 7:00 pm on Thursday; and from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 14. Call Barbara at 201-489-9333 for more information. Learn more about this project on our website or make a monetary donation that will be used to obtain needed items for the homeless veterans.

The Chore Night before Christmas

2011-12-08T16:07:00.000-05:00

At a recent holiday party, Jack Gardner, who is a handyman volunteer with our Chore Service, shared a poem he wrote about the program and its volunteers.

The Chore Night before Christmas

By Jack Gardner, 2011

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house
The faucets were dripping, and it woke up the mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that the Chore van soon would be there

The clients were nestled all snug in their beds,

While visions of grab bars and washers danced in their heads.

And Grandma in her ‘kerchief, and Grandpa in his hat,

Had just poured themselves a second night cap.

When out in the parking lot there arose such a clatter,

Mo sprang from her desk to see what was the matter.
Away to the window she flew like a flash,
Tore open the shade and threw up the sash.

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow

Gave the lustre of mid-day to the parking meters below.
When, what to her wondering eyes should appear,
But a shinny white van, and eight trusty volunteers.

With a little old driver, she knew in a drop,

It must be that fellow the guys call, Joe Pop.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name!

"Now Stephen! now, Denis! now, Edward and Glen!

On, Joe! on, Mike! on, Harvey and Len!
To the top of the porch! to the top of the steeple!
Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away good people!"

As yellow forms that before the wild hurricane pour,

When they slip off the clipboard and fall to the floor.
So up to the church-top the volunteers they flew,
With a sleigh full of grab bars, smoke detectors, and doorbells too.

And then, in a twinkling, Mo heard in the skies

The coughing and burping of each one of her guys.
As she drew in her head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney Joe Pop slid without making a sound.

He was dressed in flannel and denim, from his head to his foot,

And his new Chore hat all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of supplies he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a plumber, just opening his sack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!

No time to spare, he was in quite a hurry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up with a smile,
And the whiskers of his chin were as white as a bathtub tile.

The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth,

And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath.
He had a broad face and not much of a belly,
But it still shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly!

He wasn’t chubby or plump, but yet a right jolly old elf,

And Mo laughed when she saw him, in spite of herself!
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head,
Soon gave Mo to know there was nothing to dread.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his task,

And stopped all the leaks, then took a swig from his flask.
Gathering up all of his tools, and charging them not one cent,
He gave his head a nod, and up the chimney he went

He sprang to his van, gave a whistle like a train,

And away they all flew like a clear flowing drain.
But Mo heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove home that cold night,
"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a safe-night!"

Our Fourth Honoree is...

2011-12-01T09:27:00.002-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year with a Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the Dolce Palisades Hotel in Palisades, NY.

Over the past few weeks we’ve been introducing our distinguished honorees to you; so far you’ve met William “Pat” Schuber, Becton Dickinson (BD), and United Water. Now we’d like you to meet TD Bank.

TD Bank, “America’s Most Convenient Bank®” is committed to making a meaningful and positive contribution to the individuals, families, businesses and communities where it does business. TD Bank has generously supported the Volunteer Center with grants to purchase a new van for its Chore Service, which provides home repairs for the elderly and disabled; to underwrite training of mentors for its two mentoring programs, Mentoring Moms and Mentoring Youth; and to launch Bergen LEADS, the area’s premier civic leadership program. TD Bank is also a member of the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council, through which hundreds of employees participate in initiatives that help low income families and children, and TD Bank sponsored the Kids’ Events at the recent Bergen Bike Tour, with proceeds benefitting the Volunteer Center and Tomorrows Children’s Fund.

The Heart of Gold Gala is “black tie optional” and will feature cocktails at 7 pm, dinner at 8 pm, followed by entertainment by Beatle Magic – The Ultimate Beatles Experience, who will recreate the aura, look and sound of the Fab Four through numerous phases of the Beatles’ phenomenal career. After the show, there will be dancing until midnight.

For further information check out www.heartofgoldgala.org or call Jane He at (201) 489-9454, Ext. 125.

Major sponsors of the Heart of Gold Gala to date are: BD, United Water, TD Bank, Reader’s Digest, PSE&G, and Lakeland Bank.

All Wrapped Up Needs YOU!

2011-11-28T11:48:00.000-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County's "All Wrapped Up" holiday giving program is in full swing! We've received requests from nonprofit agencies to help 4,000 people. We’ve been busy matching donors with people in need, but we still have a long way to go. More than 300 individuals and 400 families still need to be matched with donors.

Individuals, families, civic groups, corporations and business associations are encouraged to "adopt" an individual or a family in need.

Requested items include such basics as winter coats, warm sweaters, slippers, or books and toys for children. Gift cards for supermarkets and discount department stores are on everyone's list, too.

To help, sign up online. We'll match you with an individual or family and email their profile back to you within 24 hours.

Call Debbie at 201-489-9454, ext. 118 for further information.

Times are tough, so please do whatever you can to help our neighbors right here in Bergen County!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:01:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving

from everyone at the Volunteer Center!

Our Third Honoree is...

2011-11-23T09:58:00.000-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year with a Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the Dolce Palisades Hotel in Palisades, NY.

Over the past few weeks we’ve been introducing our distinguished honorees to you; so far you’ve met William “Pat” Schuber and Becton Dickinson (BD). Now we’d like you to meet United Water.

United Water New Jersey provides water services to approximately 750,000 people throughout Bergen and Hudson counties plus several hundred in Sussex and Passaic counties. United Water has been a good friend of the Volunteer Center throughout its existence. In 1994, the company helped to establish a unique public-private collaboration that became the Bergen County Campership Fund. This initiative, for which the Volunteer Center continues to serve as custodian of funds, has since generated more than $500,000, enabling children of low-income families to enjoy the healthful benefits of summer daycamp. United Water helped to establish and remains deeply committed to the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council and Bergen LEADS. United Water has hosted various fundraising and networking events for the Volunteer Center, as well as providing ample supplies of water for numerous special events.

The Heart of Gold Gala is “black tie optional” and will feature cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment by Beatle Magic – The Ultimate Beatles Experience, in keeping with a sub-theme of the gala “With a Little Help from Our Friends.”

Deadline to purchase tickets is Monday, November 28, and tickets are $175 per person. To purchase sponsorships, on-line journal ads or tickets, visit www.heartofgoldgala.org. For more information, contact Jane He at (201) 489-9454, Ext. 125.

Major sponsors of the Heart of Gold Gala to date are: BD, United Water, TD Bank, Reader’s Digest, PSE&G, and Lakeland Bank.

Teens Learn Leadership Skills

2011-11-21T15:44:00.000-05:00

13 teens from around the county spent their Teacher’s Convention break honing their leadership skills at the Volunteer Center’s Youth Leadership Institute.

The teens participated in such hands-on experiences as community mapping, a “what if” survival scenario, and team-building activities that involved building towers out of straws and tape. Each activity was specially designed to help the teens learn to function as teams, to learn about leadership styles and to use their new-found skills to plan service projects that benefit our community.

The Youth Leadership Insitute is designed to ignite in students the desire for civic engagement and while providing them with the leadership skills they will need to create effective service activities, whether in school, in a group or on their own. The Institute was originally developed by Prudential Financial and implemented by the Points of Light Foundation.

For more information on how to plan an institute for your school or youth based group, please contact Debbie Emery, Program Director at demery@bergenvolunteers.org or 201-489-9454, x118.

Our Second Honree Is...

2011-11-16T14:10:00.001-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year with a Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the Dolce Palisades Hotel in Palisades, NY. Over the next few weeks we will introduce you to our honorees. We introduced William “Pat” Schuber last week; next up is Becton Dickinson (BD).

BD is a global medical technology company headquartered in Franklin Lakes. Since its founding in 1897 by local residents Fairleigh Dickinson and Maxwell Becton, BD has been dedicated to improving people’s health, and its reach now extends around the world. The company conducts business in approximately 50 countries and has more than 29,000 employees worldwide. While BD is a Fortune-500 company with a reach around the world, its people and its heart stem from roots deep in Bergen County.

BD has been a staunch supporter of the Volunteer Center’s Business Volunteer Council, the company is a committed investor in the ongoing success of Bergen LEADS, and over the past several years BD has provided more than $100,000 in support for Volunteer Center programs and events. In addition, the Volunteer Center is honored to coordinate the judging of BD’s prestigious Henry Becton Award for Community Impact, which recognizes the involvement of employee volunteers across the globe. BD is a wonderful company and a good neighbor, and BD has a heart of gold!

Tickets are $175 per person or $1,750 for a table of 10. To purchase sponsorships, on-line journal ads or tickets, visit www.heartofgoldgala.org. For more information, contact Jane He at (201) 489-9454, Ext. 125.

Major sponsors of the Heart of Gold Gala to date are: BD, United Water, TD Bank, Reader’s Digest, PSE&G, and Lakeland Bank.

Business Leaders of Tomorrow Lend a Helping Hand

2011-11-12T10:36:00.003-05:00

Volunteers with Business Leaders of Tomorrow (BLT) at Fairleigh Dickinson University added a special flair to our Mentoring Youth program’s Halloween party, helping to serve food, make crafts, play games and dance with scores of kids in costumes ranging from the festive to the frightful.

In addition to holding social and educational events at FDU, members of BLT also enjoy volunteering to help in the community. “Working with the Volunteer Center of Bergen County was a very rewarding experience,” says Jill DiMaggio, BLT president. “What they do for those in need is so generous. We saw that they put a lot of hard work and dedication into making what they do the best.”

“We were happy to donate our time and efforts for such an important cause,” she continues. “All the work paid off when we saw the smiles on their faces. We all had a great time. We look forward to helping at Mentoring Youth the holiday party in December!”

Our first honoree is...

2011-11-10T10:12:00.001-05:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year with a Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the Dolce Palisades Hotel in Palisades, NY. Over the next few weeks we will introduce you to our honorees. First up is William “Pat” Schuber.

Mr. Schuber is the Seminar Director for Bergen LEADS, which was launched by the Volunteer Center of Bergen County in 2008 and now stands as the county’s premier civic leadership program. His breadth of knowledge, coupled with his enthusiasm for all facets of Bergen County -- its history, government, economy and systems of healthcare and education, to say nothing of its politics and increasing diversity – is a key asset of this dynamic and engaging program. Mr. Schuber served as Bergen County Executive for 12 years and left office respected by residents across the political spectrum. He has also served 9 years as a member of the New Jersey State Assembly, 4 years as Mayor of the Borough of Bogota, and currently serves as a Commissioner of the Port Authority.

The Heart of Gold Gala is “black tie optional” and will feature cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment by Beatle Magic – The Ultimate Beatles Experience, in keeping with a sub-theme of the gala “With a Little Help from Our Friends.”

Major sponsors of the Heart of Gold Gala to date are: BD, United Water, TD Bank, Reader’s Digest, PSE&G, and Lakeland Bank.

Oh, What a Night It Was

2011-11-08T11:33:00.000-05:00

Who knew a party at IKEA could be such fun! But that’s what it was when nearly 150 friends and members of the Business Volunteer Council of Northern New Jersey poured into the IKEA store in Paramus last Friday (October 28) “Fun & Games with the BVC,” presented by Hudson City Savings Bank.

Guest-contestants took part in The Price is Right, Scavenger Hunt, the Hudson City Money Machine, and Wheel of Fortune, with stand-up comedian Mark Malkoff as our exceptional game-show-host. Our silent auction was another success, with bidders winning fabulous prizes.

The biggest success of the night was that guests filled four huge shopping carts with donations to the Center for Food Action’s Weekend Snack Pack Program, which provides snacks for kids.

Funds raised support the BVC’s initiatives that benefit low-income children and their families.

View Photos from the event here.

Thank you again to our 2011 Fun & Games sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor: Hudson City Savings Bank

Host: IKEA - Paramus

Rockland Electric

TD Bank

Hunter Douglas

State Farm Insurance

United Water

Heart of Gold

2011-11-03T16:53:00.000-04:00

Celebration is the order of the day when the Volunteer Center of Bergen County celebrates its 45th anniversary with a Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, December 3, 2011, at the Dolce Palisades Hotel in Palisades, NY.

Awards will be presented to one individual -- William “Pat” Schuber -- and three companies – BD, United Water and TD Bank – whose support of the have Volunteer Center and the Bergen County community is exemplary.

The Gala will be “black tie optional,” with cocktails at 7 pm followed by dinner and performance by Beatle Magic – The Ultimate Beatles Experience, that will recreate the aura, look and sound of the Fab Four through numerous phases of the Beatles’ legendary career. After the show, there will be dancing until midnight.

Major sponsors of the Heart of Gold Gala to date are: BD, United Water, TD Bank, Reader’s Digest, PSE&G, and Lakeland Bank.

It's All Wrapped Up Time Again!

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County's "All Wrapped Up" holiday giving program is in full swing! We've received requests from nonprofit agencies to help 3,500 people in need, and we are now matching them with donors -- like you! - who want to help. Requests are for such basic items as winter coats, warm sweaters, slippers, or books and toys for children. Gift cards for supermarkets and discount department stores are on everyone's list, too.

To help, sign up online. We'll match you with an individual or family and email their profile back to you within 48 hours.

Individuals, families, civic groups, corporations and business associations are encouraged to "adopt" an individual or a family in need. Call us at 201-489-9454, ext. 118 (Debbie Emery) if you need more information.

Times are tough, so please do whatever you can to help our neighbors right here in Bergen County!

Moms Learn Valueable Lessons

2011-10-28T15:16:00.000-04:00

Staff of TD Bank’s branch on River Street in Hackensack recently offered a financial literacy workshop to mothers, children and mentors in the Mentoring Moms program while providing an inside view of how banks operate.

During the workshop mothers toured the bank and gained valuable tips on how to use the resources at the to maintain good money management habits. Participants engaged in a lively discussion about breaking the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck and learned the benefits of online banking, monthly budgeting and the impact of compound interest. At the end of the evening all felt better prepared to make wiser banking decisions.

Thank you TD Bank for providing such a great service and for being a great community partner!

Shopping for a Cause!

2011-10-24T15:20:00.000-04:00

While shopping online this holiday season, you can help the Volunteer Center with every purchase. Through igive.com, a percentage of every purchase you make will go to the Volunteer Center, or another charity of your choice. You can shop at more than 600 stores, including favorites like Target, Barnes & Noble, Gap, Amazon, Travelocity and much more. Just lick the link to igive.com and fill out the simple registration form. It only takes a minute to register, and $5 will be donated to the Volunteer Center right off the bat if you sign up and shop within 45 days. Please follow the directions on the iGive website to learn more about how you can help.

Bergen LEADS Alum Survives Cancer Three Times & Models to Promote Awareness

2011-10-20T15:41:00.000-04:00

According to the National Cancer Institute, although cases of colon cancer have declined over the past two decades, the number of people diagnosed under age 50 has jumped by 40%! Volunteer Center Board Member and Bergen LEADS alum David Dubin of Haworth is one of those cases.

Dave was initially diagnosed with colon cancer at age 29, then again at age 40. Two years later, doctors removed a third cancer from his kidney. He is now featured as Mr. January in the newly released 2012 Colondar, a calendar produced by national nonprofit The Colon Club.

You can meet Dave in person on November 17th, at the Haworth Apothecary, 169 Terrace Street, Haworth, NJ. It's part of their "Shop for a Cause" holiday event, where you can also purchase The Colondar.

To read more about Dave and the other colon-cancer-survivor models, visit www.colondar.com. The Colondar can be purchased online for $16.50

Remaining Volunteer Manager’s Roundtable Scheduled

2011-10-18T11:33:00.001-04:00

Keep your skills sharp, find out about new ideas, share resources, and get answers to your questions about making the most of your volunteer workforce.

Please join us for monthly lunchtime discussions on volunteer management. These sessions are informal yet interactive, so bring your lunch and be prepared to learn from and share with other local industry professionals. We'll also have time for networking and group problem-solving activities.

Date/Time: Thursday, Oct. 27, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Date/Time: Friday, Nov. 18, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Date/Time: Thursday, Dec. 15, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Click here to register online for the Volunteer Managers' Roundtable.

2011-10-15T10:24:00.000-04:00

The Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC) is holding its annual fundraising event, Fun and Games with the BVC, on Friday, October 28th from 6:00 - 10:00 pm at IKEA, 100 IKEA Drive, Paramus.

For the party, a portion of IKEA will be transformed into a game-show stage, with guests grabbing vouchers for cash and prizes; the Price is Right with contestants vying for fabulous IKEA prizes; an intriguing store-wide scavenger hunt; and the ever-popular Wheel of Fortune.

Master of Ceremonies and game show host for the evening will be Mark Malkoff, who gained worldwide attention in 2008 when he moved into the Paramus IKEA store and lived in one of the room displays for five days while his apartment was being fumigated. The videos chronicling his adventure won the 2009 PR Week Campaign of the Year, and can be seen at www.marklivesinikea.com.

“We are delighted that Mark will be ‘coming home’ to IKEA and will set the tone for a zany and fun-filled evening,” says Amanda Missey, BVC Director.

Tickets are $50 per person, which includes an international all-you-can eat buffet, silent auction, great swag bags and entertainment. Tickets can be purchased on-line here.

This annual fund raising event helps the BVC impact the lives of low-income children and families by addressing the issues of literacy, well-being, hunger and education. In the past eleven years, the BVC has generated and distributed over $1.2 million in resources to families in need.

Presenting sponsor for Fun and Games with the BVC is Hudson City Savings Bank. Additional sponsors to date include IKEA, BD, TD Bank, Rockland Electric, Hunter Douglas, United Water and State Farm Insurance.

BoardLink: Connecting Leaders with Non-profit Organizations

2011-10-13T11:01:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County is hosting a one-day training for people interested in serving on a non-profit board or who wish to become better board members.

Sponsored by TD Bank, together with the alumni of Bergen LEADS, BoardLink will be presented on Saturday, November 5, from 9 am to 3 pm at the offices of TD Bank, 1100 Lake Street in Ramsey. Cost to attend is $100 per person, which includes breakfast, lunch and all course materials. A group rate of 3 registrations for $175 is also available to agencies that are members of the Volunteer Center. Pre-registration is required for this limited-seating program. Register on-line here or call 201-489-9454 Ext. 199.

“Serving on a non-profit board can provide recognition, visibility, networking, career enhancement and the ability to effect change by addressing important social needs,” says Amanda Missey, Director of Bergen LEADS. “But along with the benefits comes responsibility to help the organization accomplish its mission and achieve its goals.”

New Jersey is home to more than 31,000 non-profit organizations, with 3,600 in Bergen County alone. These organizations employ 7% of the workforce and spend more than $33 billion annually, constituting a significant portion of the state’s economy. A non-profit organization is only as strong as its leadership, and local non-profit boards are eagerly seeking skilled and knowledgeable volunteers to help guide their organizations.

“BoardLink offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about board structure, strategic planning, fiduciary responsibility, ethics, advocacy and fundraising. A thorough understanding of these topics is critical to serving – and serving well – on a non-profit board” continues Ms. Missey. “Upon completion of the workshop, the Volunteer Center will help match participants to a board that is in need of their particular skills, talents and interests.”

For more information about Bergen LEADS, or the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, visit www.bergenvolunteers.org, or call 201-489-9454.

Youth Leadership Training Offered

2011-10-11T10:14:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center is offering an innovative program that provides students currently in grades 8,9 and 10 with leadership skills they can put to use in school and in the community.

A two-day Youth Leadership Institute will be presented on Thursday and Friday, November 10 and 11, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm each day. The sessions will be held at the Volunteer Center’s offices in Hackensack. Class is limited to 25 students.

Those are required to submit an application form, available by calling 201-489-9454 ext. 118 or via email: demery@bergenvolunteers.org. Deadline for submission is November 1, 2011. Upon acceptance to the program, the fee for each student is $50.00.

The interactive curriculum of the Youth Leadership Institute is designed to spark in students enthusiasm for getting involved. The workshops, which provide the caliber of leadership training typically available only to corporate executives and government leaders, feature a challenging series of lessons and exercises on community needs analysis, goal setting, team building, project planning, decision-making and other leadership dynamics.

Debbie Emery, Director of Community Volunteer Services and certified Youth Leadership trainer says, “The Youth Leadership Institute is a great way for students to enhance their community involvement, which is increasingly important as they look toward fulfilling school requirements and applying to colleges.”

“Today’s students want to make a difference in their own communities, and are willing to tackle complex social issues,” continues Ms. Emery. “By attending this workshop, students will learn how to plan for and develop service programs in their schools and youth organizations. Leadership, whether on a team, in a club setting, in the classroom, is important to develop in our children for their future and ours.”

For more information on the Youth Leadership Institute, call Debbie Emery at (201) 489-9454 ext. 118, or email demery@bergenvolunteers.org.

Fun Time at the Zoo!

2011-10-06T10:11:00.000-04:00

Thanks to a couple of generous donors, kids in the Volunteer Center's Mentoring Youth program enjoyed a great day at the Bronx Zoo with their mentors. Intrigued by the panoply of animal life and the exotic settings, the full-day trip added another dimension to our goal of helping abused and neglected kids see a brighter future.

Thanks so much to all who recognize the value of such outings. They mean the world to the kids!

Company Does Good!

2011-10-03T09:45:00.002-04:00

United Water recently donated three contractor-grade studfinders to the Volunteer Center’s Chore Service. Each of our three vans will now be equipped with one, and this will greatly help our volunteers when they install grab bars and railings in the homes of seniors and people with disabilities throughout Bergen County.

Our crews of Chore handyman volunteers perform minor home repairs at no cost, other than for materials used, to keep seniors and disabled persons safe in their homes.

Call 201-489-7790 to volunteer as a handyperson, or to make an appointment for service.

Bergen Bike Tour Success!

2011-09-29T10:12:00.000-04:00

THANK YOU to everyone who made

the 16th annual Bergen Bike Tour on

Sunday a tremendous success!

We had a great time and we hope you did, too!!

Our goal this year is to raise $80,000 -- and it’s all up to you! All riders need to be busy raising funds to support our two great charities: Tomorrows Children's Fund and The Volunteer Center of Bergen County. Turn in your pledges by November 11 to be eligible for great prizes! Learn more about how to raise funds for the Bergen Bike Tour on our website, www.bergenbiketour.org.

Thanks you again to all of our truly outstanding sponsors: TD Bank, CUNet/Peterson’s-a Nelnet Company, JDD Alderisio, Apax Partners, EisnerAmper, Jamis Bicycles, Inserra ShopRite, Lakeland Bank, NeoStem, Oritani Bank Charitable Foundation, PNC Bank, Ramsey Auto Group, Tanis & Sons, Volvo, Baker Sports Marketing, Bolkema Fuel Company, Columbia Bank, Compensation Solutions, Dunkin’ Donuts, Flackman Goodman & Potter, P.A., Flavor and Fragrance Specialties, Garden State Wiper, Hackensack University Medical Center, KRE Group, Robert E. Martini, LLC, Murphy, Miller & Baglieri, LLP, Nisivoccia, LLP, Nowell, Amoroso Klein Bierman, P.A., Rockland Electric Company, Andrew Rubenstein, M.D., Rudy’s Inflight Catering, Sanzari Companies, Sharp Electronics, Sovereign Santander, United Water, Withum Smith+Brown, Zerega Custom Pasta Company, Aldo’s/The Brickhouse, Allendale Bar & Grill, Applebee’s, Bollinger Insurance, Downes Tree Service, Excel Physical Therapy, La Cena Fine Foods, Lowenstein Sandler, Malesardi Quackenbush Swift & Company, REI, Topline Products Co., Inc., Wells Fargo.

Your support is greatly appreciated!

To view photos from the event please click here!

Companies: Do well by doing good!

2011-09-27T12:04:00.000-04:00

Successful businesses across the country are learning that getting involved in the community contributes to the bottom line. To help local companies find out how maximize employee engagement, the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council is hosting an all-day training “Employee Volunteer Program Nuts and Bolts.”

Date/Time: Fri., November 4, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Location: BMW of North America, Woodcliff Lakes

Fee: $100, or $75 for BVC members

Course Leaders: David Warshaw & Jo Ann Dow-Breslin

David Warshaw, Principal, Vistas Volunteer Management Solutions

After leading GE's award-winning global volunteerism program and serving as a corporate public relations executive for 27 years, David is now applying his talents as founder of Vistas Volunteer Management Solutions to aid businesses and nonprofits build their volunteer programs into strategic assets. David is a past chair of the Points of Light Foundation's National Council on Workplace Volunteerism and is on the Board of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. David is a current appointee to the New Jersey Governor's Advisory Council on Volunteerism and Community Service.

Jo Ann Dow-Breslin, Owner, JD Communications, LLC

Jo Ann has a broad background in employee volunteer management and community affairs. As PSEG’s Manager-Community Affairs for 16 years, she developed new approaches to volunteer management and found ways to motivate and recognize employee volunteers. She is a member and past co-chair of the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council. She has served on the Corporate Volunteer Council (CVC) Advisory Council for the HandsOn Network/Points of Light Institute, and as a co-chair for New Jersey’s Statewide Business Volunteer Council. Currently, as the owner of JD Communications, Jo Ann assists corporations and nonprofits with community initiatives, grants management and communications services.

For more information on this training or to register, contact bvc@bergenvolunteers.org or 201-489-9454 ext. 119.

Bergen Bike Tour Today - Rain or Shine!

2011-09-25T04:40:00.002-04:00

The Bergen Bike Tour is on rain or shine today, Sunday, September 25th, come on down to Darlington Park in Mahwah, NJ.

We will be there from 7:30 am and throughout the day cheering on riders,
enjoying a delicious BBQ, and raffling off great prizes.
Click here for the schedule for the day.

Pre-registration is now closed, but you can register on-site. We accept cash, checks (payable to Bergen Bike Tour), Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

The Bergen Bike Tour benefits two outstanding local charities: Tomorrows Children’s Fund and The Volunteer Center of Bergen County.

Bergen Bike Tour - this Sunday!

2011-09-22T11:23:00.000-04:00

Don’t miss the chance to register online for the 16^th annual Bergen Bike Tour, this Sunday, September 25th, at Darlington Park in Mahwah!

Hundreds of cyclists will be pedalling on behalf of Tomorrows Children’s Fund and The Volunteer Center of Bergen County, two outstanding local organizations. We'll have food, fun, music, massages, and great prizes on hand for everyone there!

You can sign up on online until Friday at 2:00pm. You can also register Sunday at Darlington Park. The 50-mile ride kicks off at 8:00 am, 25-mile at 9, and 10-mile at 10:30. Enjoy breakfast before your ride courtesy of Dunkin' Donuts and a barbeque after courtesy of Inserra Shoprite Supermarkets!

Find out everything you need to know at bergenbiketour.org or call us at 1-877-BER-BIKE. See you there!

Volunteers Needed for Post Hurricane Clean Up

2011-09-21T10:16:00.000-04:00

Volunteers are needed who can help clean up flooded-out homes. If you would like to be trained in this specialized skill, contact UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), which is well known for providing this service. Click here for details.

Women Needed to Help Mothers and Families in Need!

2011-09-19T13:42:00.001-04:00

Do you want to make a difference in someone's life? Do you enjoy working with women and families? If so, Mentoring Moms needs you!

Mentoring Moms, a program of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, trains and supports volunteers who help overwhelmed mothers who are struggling with the responsibilities of children and life.

Volunteer mentors are caring women who understand how hard it is to raise children and want to make life easier for another mom. Whether it is giving emotional support by being a sympathetic listener or providing practical assistance by connecting a mother to community resources, volunteer mentors offer the needed support and resources that help strengthen a family. Parenting is hard work and most parents need someone they can turn to when they need a shoulder to lean on or some practical advice - our mentors fill that role.

If you are interested in volunteering or finding out more information, please contact the Mentoring Moms program at 201-489-9454, ext. 123. Our next training begins Monday, October 3, 2011 at 7:30 pm at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County in Hackensack.

Thank you for your support!

2011-09-17T11:07:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who came out to support the Volunteer Center of Bergen County at Blue Moon Mexican Cafe on August 9, 14, and 15.

Your generous support (and deliciously full bellies) help our work in the community flourish. To find out how, click here!

Introducing: FUN and GAMES with the BVC!

2011-09-14T10:44:00.001-04:00

The Northern New JerseyBusiness Volunteer Council (BVC) invites you to join us for our all-new, fun and fabulous fall fundraising event. Your $50 ticket will get you a mouth-watering, all-you-can-eat international buffet, beer/wine, spectacular silent auction, 50/50 raffle, mystery bag drawing, stand-up comedy, game show-style games, overflowing swag bags, and more! Proceeds will benefit BVC efforts to provide resources to low-income children and families in our community.

We'll also welcome comedian Mark Malkoff back to IKEA! Known for living in our very own Paramus IKEA (click here to find out all about it), Mark will host Fun & Games and bring his zany brand of humor to the event.

You won't want to miss this party! For more information or to order tickets, just click here to visit us online or email us at bvc@bergenvolunteers.org.

Volunteer at the Bergen Bike Tour!

2011-09-12T09:38:00.001-04:00

Whether or not you actually ride in the Bergen BikeTour, you can still help and support two great causes. You can volunteer!

The 16th annual Bergen Bike Tour will be on Sunday, September 25, with myriad activities at Darlington Park, in Mahwah. Family-oriented and fun-filled, the event raises funds for the Volunteer Center of Bergen County and Tomorrows Children's Fund at Hackensack University Medical Center.

Volunteer slots are available between 6:30 am and 1:00 pm, and volunteers can help with set up, serve breakfast, prepare goodie bags, clean up, and cheer on riders. All volunteers receive a free, top-quality long-sleeve event t-shirt and refreshments. Join the fun! Register to volunteer online or contact Debbie Emery at 201-489-9454, x 118.

Save the date to serve!

2011-09-08T09:43:00.001-04:00

Here is a list of the 2011-2012 Days of Service. Learn more about these days and others like it on our Upcoming Events Page.

SEPTEMBER 11 NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2011
www.911day.org

www.thousandactsofcaring.org
Help to remember and honor in a positive way those lost and injured on 9/11 and the many who rose in service following the attacks.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2011
www.usaweekend.com/diffday
Make A Difference Day, nicknamed the "national day of doing good," is a national community service effort designed to challenge and reward volunteers. Every year on the fourth Saturday in October, more than one million people spend the day "making a difference" within their communities, engaged in service projects and activities.

NATIONAL FAMILY VOLUNTEER DAY - SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2011
http://www.nationalfamilyweek.org/
Thousands of families across

America

volunteer on this day, performing tasks to benefit their communities. This service day is designed to expose families to the benefits of working together; and to introduce and encourage community service as a family unit. This day is the kick off for NATIONAL FAMILY VOLUNTEER WEEK.

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY - MONDAY, JANUARY 16, 2012
www.mlkday.gov
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. believed that success is measured "by the quality of our service relationship to humanity." The King Holiday is promoted as a community service initiative to remember, celebrate and organize to meet the challenge of Dr. King's philosophy on public service. Honor Dr. King for the issues and causes he worked so hard for with a day “on,” not a day “off.”

NATIONAL YOUTH SERVICE DAY - FRIDAY, APRIL 20 - SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2012
www.ysa.org
National Youth Service Day encourages communities all across the country to recognize young people for their involvement in community problem solving efforts.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK - SUNDAY, APRIL 15 - SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012
www.handsonnetwork.org/nationalprograms
National Volunteer Week designates a special time to recognize and celebrate the tremendous efforts of volunteers at the local, state and national levels.

Support a Rider at the Bergen Bike Tour

2011-09-06T09:39:00.001-04:00

Support your favorite Bergen Bike Tour rider at the click of a button! Visit our Bergen Bike Tour Support a Rider Page. Enter the name of the cyclist and the amount you wish to pledge. It’s that simple! You can also donate through the Bergen Bike Tour Firstgiving page.

Your donation will support two well respected local non profits: the Volunteer Center of Bergen County and Tomorrows Children's Fund.

Join us at the Bergen Bike Tour to cheer on your rider, Sunday, September 25. Register now! For more information call 1-877-BER-BIKE or visit www.bergenbiketour.org.

Register to Ride!

2011-09-01T09:35:00.001-04:00

The 16th Annual Bergen Bike Tour will be held on Sunday, September 25th at Darlington Park in Mahwah. Register TODAY and take advantage of our discounted early registration fee - $35 per person; $70 for a family of four. Starting Saturday, September 17th, registration is $40 person; $70 for a family of four. Register to ride at www.bergenbiketour.org or call 1-877-BER-BIKE.

The Bergen Bike Tour is a family-oriented, fun-filled event with proceeds benefiting two local charities: the Volunteer Center of Bergen County and Tomorrows Children’s Fund. The Bergen Bike Tour is a great way for families to get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors and do good in the community - - all at the same time! TD Bank is sponsoring special activities for kids, including a "Kids’ Ride" for kids 10 and under plus crafts, games, music and more! Cyclists of all ages and abilities are welcome to ride routes of 10, 25 or 50 miles through Bergen County's most scenic areas.

See you on September 25th!

Operation Goody Bag

2011-08-30T15:27:00.000-04:00

Students at Eastbrook Middle School, in Paramus, are paying tribute to those lost on September 11, 2001 by participating in Operation Goody Bag. Operation Goody Bag is a student-centered, service-learning project dedicated to remembering September 11th. Its mission is to perform tributes remembering those who perished and express appreciation to our Military Men and Women, Veterans, and First Responders, through the gift of a Goody Bag.

Operation Goody Bag has ongoing activities through the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. For information on how you can be involved, contact Jane Cosco at janecosco@operationgoodybag.org. This is a great opportunity for people of all ages and families as well as schools and companies. And remember -- you can report your good doings on our Thousand Acts of Caring website.

Call to Change Lives

2011-08-23T09:54:00.001-04:00

The Volunteer Center’s mentoring programs want you! Fall training is right around the corner.

Mentoring Moms are mentors and role models to isolated and/or overwhelmed mothers; training starts on October 3. Please call Cindy at 201-489-9454, ext. 123 for information or to register.

Mentoring Youth (formerly VIPS), are adult role models to children who have experienced abuse, neglect, trouble or isolation. Training for this program starts on September 21; both men and women are invited to call and register today. Please call Francine at 201-489-9454, ext. 111.

If you

find satisfaction in helping others

seek opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment

enjoy making new friends

want to get give back

... call today!

NEW! Volunteer Opportunties

2011-08-19T09:51:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center’s Chore Service is looking for volunteers. Each Chore volunteer is scheduled one day a week as part of a crew, and each crew is assigned 4-5 service calls per day. Chore volunteers should be able to perform minor household repairs such as those that most homeowners do and should be available on a regular basis so they can be scheduled with a regular crew. Call Maureen McCormick at 201-489-7790 for further information.

Community Blood Services, Allendale, is looking for a volunteer who has a Ph.D. or M.S. with lab/research experience. Stem cell experience preferred. This ongoing project involves working with a blood donor database; project is managed by Roger Mrowiec, Ph.D, Director of our Stem Cell Division, and Dennis Todd, Ph.D., President and CEO. Interested parties should contact Volunteer Director at 201-389-0459.

Heightened Independence in Progress (HIP), Hackensack, Project Downtown Access needs volunteers to survey businesses along Main Street to identify problems of access. HIP will then reach out to these businesses providing information about barrier removal so their facilities can be accessible to all customers. Volunteers can work alone or partner with another volunteer, and can survey as little or as much as they wish. Call Nancy Hodgins at Bergen HIP, 201-996-9100, x26 or email her, nhodgins.ber@hipcil.org.

The Volunteer Center occasionally needs the assistance of volunteers to help with mailings. If you’d like to be called when we need help, please email info@bergenvolunteers.org. Thank you!

Thousand Acts of Caring

2011-08-17T09:47:00.001-04:00

September 11 will always recall a horrific day. But it has also become a national day of doing good in remembrance of those who lost their lives, those who suffered as the result of the attacks, and those who rose in service afterwards. Thousand Acts of Caring is the Volunteer Center's way of helping people pay tribute in remembrance of September 11, 2001.

We encourage you to visit thousandactsofcaring.org and briefly describe your act(s) of caring. Whether you help a neighbor, donate food, or give blood, every act can make a big difference.

Visit Thousand Acts of Caring and share your way of remembering.

Local Companies Sponsor Bergen Bike Tour

2011-08-15T15:46:00.000-04:00

We are delighted to recognize several area companies as sponsors of the 16th Annual Bergen Bike Tour, set for Sunday, September 25 at Darlington Park in Mahwah. Proceeds benefit Tomorrows Children’s Fund and the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. Companies support these 2 organizations not only with sponsorship, but also by forming company teams, donating products and encouraging customers and employees to ride and to volunteer!

Sponsors to date include TD Bank; CUNet/Peterson’s, a Nelnet Company; Apax Partners; EisnerAmper; Inserra ShopRite; Jamis Bicycles; Lakeland Bank; NeoStem; Oritani Bank Charitable Foundation; PNC Bank; Tanis & Sons; Baker Sports Marketing; Bolkema Fuel Company; Columbia Bank; Compensation Solutions; Dunkin' Donuts; Flackman Goodman & Potter, P.A; Flavor & Fragrance Specialties; Garden State Wiper; Hackensack University Medical Center; KRE Group; Murphy, Miller & Baglieri, LLP; Nowell Amoroso Klein Bierman, P.A.; Rockland Electric Company; Andrew Rubenstein, M.D.; Robert E. Martini, LLC; Rudy’s Inflight Catering; Sanzari Companies; Sharp Electronics; Sovereign Santander; United Water; Withum Smith+Brown Global Assurance; Zerega Custom Pasta Company; Aldo's/The Brickhouse; Allendale Bar & Grill; Applebee's; Bollinger Insurance; Downes Tree Service; Excel Physical Therapy; La Cena Fine Foods; Lowenstein Sandler; and Topline Products.

Thank you sponsors!

Difficult economic times have really affected our charities,” says Phil Murphy, chairman of the event. “TCF and VCBC provide programs and services that help children with cancer, the frail elderly, people with disabilities and families in crisis. Services are in jeopardy, so we encourage community-minded companies and cyclists to support this great event.”

More than 400 cyclists will ride routes of 10-, 25- or 50-miles through some of northern Bergen County's most scenic areas. There will also be a "Kids Ride" for children 10 and under.

For more information, visit http://www.bergenbiketour.org/ or to become a sponsor of this stellar event, call Jane He at 201-489-9454, ext. 125.

Thanks, and come again

2011-08-11T09:22:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who supported the Volunteer Center by dining at Blue Moon Mexican Café in Woodcliff Lake and Wyckoff on Tuesday, August 9.

We apologize to those who went to the Englewood restaurant and found it closed. We did not know that they remodeled and would be reopening the next day. To compensate, Blue Moon has generously offered to extend the event to next Monday, August 15 and Tuesday, August 16, at all three locations.

The Englewood site will be open, but just incase here is the telephone number, 201-541-0600.

Click here to print the flyer (which you will need to present to your server, or no credit will be given to the Volunteer Center). The date says August 9, but Blue Moon will honor it. Again, thank you!

Companies Provide Tools for School

2011-08-09T09:45:00.001-04:00

The Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC) is sponsoring a collection to provide school supplies for hundreds of children who are from low-income families, in foster care, or who are homeless. Community-minded companies are invited to participate in the “Tools for Schools” initiative, which runs until the end of August. Employee volunteers will collect school supplies and deliver them to non-profit organizations including various locations of Head Start and the Center for Food Action plus Children’s Aid and Family Services (Paramus) and Youth Consultation Services (Hackensack). You can also make a donation to the program online here.

“School begins soon, and children will be given a list of supplies that they need,” says Tess Tomasi, BVC Coordinator. “In these difficult economic times, families are struggling. While school supplies may be low on the list of priorities, children cannot do without them.”

The BVC is coordinating the drive to collect the school supplies based on lists developed in coordination with the social service agencies. This year’s goal is to collect $35,000 worth of school supplies. Any company wishing to participate can contact Tess Tomasi at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, at (201) 489-9454 Ext. 114 to receive an organizational packet with complete instructions on how to organize and conduct the campaign.

Sponsors of the 2011 “Tools for Schools” campaign include State Farm, PSEG, IKEA, United Water, Orange & Rockland Electric, and BD.

A Summer Makeover

2011-08-04T15:09:00.002-04:00

Mentors, moms and kids in our Mentoring Moms program enjoyed "makeovers" galore when Parisian Beauty Academy, in Hackensack, hosted the fifth annual night of beauty expressly for our program. 40 guests were treated to haircuts, facials and manicures, with services provided free of charge by stylists who donated their time.

Many of the women we mentor live on a shoestring and rarely have the opportunity to enjoy this kind of pampering. As one mom said, "This was such a treat - I haven't been to a hairdresser in years!" It was great fun for everyone.

The Mentoring Moms program recruits, screens, trains and supervises caring mentors for overwhelmed mothers in need of guidance in parenting and life skills as well as in sustaining their families. For more information on the Mentoring Moms program or how you can help please visit the Volunteer Center of Bergen County’s website.

Family Fun at the Bergen Bike Tour

2011-08-01T14:33:00.001-04:00

The 16th Annual Bergen Bike Tour is a great way for families to spend time together, get some exercise, enjoy the outdoors and do good -- all at the same time! The Bergen Bike Tour will be held on Sunday, September 25th, at Darlington County Park in Mahwah. Routes of 10, 25 and 50 miles are available for riders of every level. Kids’ Events, sponsored by TD Bank, will feature a special ride for those 10 and under on small bikes, big wheels and tricycles on our special Kids' Ride track. The TD Bank Kids' Events will also include clowns, fire trucks to explore, pumpkin painting, face painting, games and crafts - including a lesson in origami - and much more.

After the ride, riders of all ages are invited to the family fun picnic featuring a home-cooked barbeque lunch, plus prizes and fun for the whole family. Two Jamis bicycles will be raffled at $5 per ticket. Register online at http://www.bergenbiketour.org or call 1-877-BER-BIKE (237-2453).

Charity and Spice!

2011-07-29T13:05:00.000-04:00

Join the Volunteer Center for Community Night at Blue Moon Mexican Café, Tuesday, August 9th. Blue Moon will generously donate 20% of all Dine In, Take Out, and Gift Card purchases to the Volunteer Center.

Visit one of the three Bergen County locations: Englewood, Woodcliff Lake or Wyckoff from 11:00am – 9:00pm to partake in this truly spicy fundraiser.

All guests must print out the flyer, found here, and hand it in to your server upon arrival. Without the flyer we receive no credit.

Invite your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors or anyone else who might not want to cook on August 9th and have a fiesta for the Volunteer Center! You have to eat somewhere - why not Blue Moon Mexican Café?

Community Gardens to Promote Healthy Eating

2011-07-27T09:48:00.000-04:00

The Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC), a coalition of companies whose members work year round to help children and families in the community, has kicked off a brand new initiative, BVC Community Food Gardens.

A component of the long-running Brown Bag Buddies, a summer food collection program, the BVC Community Food Garden Program will address the nutrition needs of low-income children by expanding access to fresh produce and promoting healthy eating.

“Too often, families don’t have enough money for the monthly food bill, and fresh fruits and vegetables don’t fit into that budget,” says Tess Tomasi, BVC Coordinator. “But according to the New Jersey Anti-Hunger Coalition’s Every Child, Every Day Campaign, fresh produce is a critical part of the fight against childhood hunger.”

BVC member agencies identified neighborhoods with a high prevalence of family poverty, and contacted community based organizations serving those families, so that there would be a way to distribute the harvested fruits and vegetables.

The BVC is sponsoring four community gardens in 2011, in Garfield, Hackensack and Teaneck. Companies and individuals are still needed to support the existing gardens in the form of donations of resources like tomato cages, watering cans - even salad spinners - or money to cover any unexpected expenses as the gardens grow, and to support future gardens in Bergen County. Visit the BVC website at www.nnjbvc.org to make a donation to the Community Garden Project.

Visit the BVC's website to find out how to get involved with this or other projects of the Business Volunteer Council.

New Volunteer Opportunities Posted

2011-07-20T14:25:00.002-04:00

Visiting Homemakers, Hackensack, is looking for volunteers who can stain a brand new handicap ramp and stairs at their home office located on Union Street in Hackensack. Volunteers can contact Michele Ogden at 201-488-0041 ext. 15.

Family Promise of Bergen County, Ridgewood, needs volunteers to assist with a new weekend program for families at the Family Promise shelter in Ridgewood. Volunteers are needed to work in 4 hour shifts between 8:30am - 6:00pm. Volunteers will assist in activities and monitor the group. Volunteers can call Jane Bellis at 201-833-8009.

Christian Overcomers, Garfield, is looking for volunteers to assist disabled patients at their retreat in Canadensis, Pennsylvania from July 18-22 and August 22-26. Volunteers will be trained to work with patients. Minimum age is 17. Registered Nurses and LPNs are also needed to assist in distributing medication to campers. Volunteers can call Debbie White at 973-253-2343.

Volunteer Management for Results: How to Create and Sustain Success

2011-07-14T09:10:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center is offering a comprehensive, six-hour course on “Essentials of Volunteer Management: From Development to Achievement” on Thursday, August 4, 9am - 3pm. The $75 registrationfee includes breakfast, lunch and extensive course materials in a binder. Participants from Volunteer Center Member Agencies pay only $50; contact the Volunteer Center for more information on becoming a Member Agency.

Participants will “learn the ropes” of volunteer management as they cover important benchmarks for success, including:

Planning the Volunteer Program
Volunteer Recruitment and Placement
Orientation and Training
Supervision and Recognition
Evaluation of the Program

Best practices and new trends in volunteer management will be discussed, including how to use social media and traditional media to market to volunteers and other stakeholders, how to engage leadership-level volunteers, and how to target recruitment efforts to specific demographics.

Volunteers are a major economic factor in communities across the country. The most recent data from Independent Sector values volunteer time at $21.36 per hour. Combined with the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ data showing nearly 64 million people volunteering an average of 52 hours per year, the value of volunteering is more than $71 billion. This means that volunteering is worth the investment of managerial talent.

“Volunteering is definitely worth the investment in managerial talent,” says Janet Sharma, executive director of the Volunteer Center. “The Volunteer Sector has been facing numerous challenges due to the economy and shrinking work force. By implementing the practical solutions offered in this workshop, volunteer coordinators can improve their professional skills and learn to manage people who are eager to give their time and talent to help our community.

“We know that volunteers must be engaged to be effective,” continues Sharma. “Ensuring that those who manage volunteers have the necessary skills is critical to the success of non-profit organizations. This day-long workshop will benefit newcomers to the field as well as those already deeply invested.”

For more information about customized training or to register for “Essentials of Volunteer Management”, send an e-mail to: training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call Tess Tomasi at (201) 489-9454 Ext. 114.

Register Now for the Bergen Bike Tour

2011-07-12T14:29:00.000-04:00

Sign up now for Bergen Bike Tour! This family-fun event on Sunday, September 25, benefits the Volunteer Center of Bergen County and Tomorrows Children’s Fund. The event ride features routes for cyclists of every ability from novice to expert! Each ride begins and ends at Darlington Park, in Mahwah, and family fun includes a special Kids’ Ride, barbeque, clowns, face painting, crafts, music, games, prizes and more!

You can register any of four ways - 1) Online at http://bergenbiketour.org/signup.htm; 2) Download and print a registration form; 3) Call 1-877-BER-BIKE; or 4) Register at the event on 9/26/10.

All riders are expected to turn in $100 per individual or $200 per family (4 members), with all proceeds split between two outstanding organizations: the Volunteer Center of Bergen County and Tomorrows Children’s Fund. Every pre-registered rider will receive 5 silicone bracelets to give as a 'thank you' to friends and family who support your ride.

Several local companies are stepping up to support the Bergen Bike Tour: TD Bank; Peterson’s, a Nelnet Company; Apax Partners; Jamis Bicycles; Inserra Shoprite; Oritani Bank Charitable Foundation; and PNC Bank. Sponsorship opportunities begin at $500, and sponsors of $1,000 or more get their logo on the t-shirt and can register an unlimited number of employees at no extra charge. (All riders are expected to raise at least $100 - $200 for families - in donations.)

For further information, call 877-BER-BIKE, or visit www.bergenbiketour.org.

Summer Food Drive for Kids

2011-07-07T15:39:00.000-04:00

The Northern New Jersey Business Council (BVC) is helping needy families this summer through "Brown Bag Buddies," a summer food drive. The BVC is spreading the word to area businesses to enlist their help in ensuring that low income families and their children don’t go hungry this summer.

"Believe it or not, July and August are the busiest months of the whole year because the kids are home from school,” says Thelma Fedele, director of community and government relations for the Center for Food Action. “Children are not getting school lunches or breakfasts and, at the same time, donations of food go down."

Now in it's eleventh year sponsoring "Brown Bag Buddies," the BVC welcomes participation from businesses large and small as well as from civic and faith-based organizations. Our goal is to collect $30,000 in food and cash, which will be donated to the Center for Food Action, by the end of July. You may request an organizational packet, which gives step-by-step instructions for organizing and promoting your Brown Bag Buddies campaign, by calling the Volunteer Center at 201 -489-9454 x 114 or emailing ttomasi@bergenvolunteers.org. You can also make a donation to the program here; your cash will be used to buy discounted gift certificates at grocery stores for needy families.

Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T07:02:00.000-04:00

Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July!

Free IT!

2011-07-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center’s Non Profit Training and Resource Center will present a workshop on technology, “IT Virtually For Free,” on Monday, July 11 from 10-noon at the Volunteer Center, in Hackensack.

Free or low-cost information technology is available, and non-profits can easily learn to utilize it. Attendees at this workshop will learn how to manage IT needs on a minimum budget, save files, maintain and organize donor lists, and manage their non-profit’s day-to-day operations.

Topics will include:

Google docs
Search engines and how to use them
The basics of internet marketing
Google Apps
iContact Free
TechSoup
Smartphones

Course leader is Richard Luna of Protected Harbor, a computer services outsourcing provider which offers numerous services in for non-profits and growing companies in New York, New Jersey and Texas. Mr. Luna has been involved in the computer and programming field for more than 25 years. His customers include the Library of Congress as well as such Fortune 100 companies as Mellon Bank, CSC, Xerox, Bankers Trust and others.

The cost to attend is $15, which includes all course materials. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, e-mail training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call (201) 489-9454, ext.114. Register on-line here.

HandsOn Network Announces Innovation Hubs and We’re One of Them

2011-06-30T09:29:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center of Bergen County has been named an “Innovation Hub” by HandsOn Network, its national affiliate partner. The Center is one of 10 organizations so designated as learning labs for community involvement that will drive innovation, build strong leadership and advance volunteer engagement through acquired skills and knowledge. The announcement was made at the National Conference on Volunteering and Service which was held in New Orleans from June 6-9, 2011.

“The world is evolving rapidly with dramatic changes in how people live, work and interface with technology. All of these also affect how and why people decide to get involved in their communities,” says Amy Smith, president of Atlanta-based HandsOn Network. “To keep up with these changes, HandsOn Network is investing in select affiliates to help all affiliates stay on the cutting edge of innovation, create new ways to connect with individuals and create positive change in communities.”

In addition to the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, the other Innovation Hubs are: Boston Cares, Chicago Cares, HandsOn Central Ohio, HandsOn Greater Portland, HandsOn Twin Cities, New York Cares, Seattle Works, Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County and Volunteer Marin/Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership.

The Innovation Hubs initiative will provide grant funding and executive leadership focused on innovation. The model for this innovation framework is based on trends identified by David La Piana, which include:

Redefining participation due to demographic shifts
Abounding technological advances
Organizing of work in new ways through networks
Rising interest in civic engagement and volunteerism
Blurring of sector boundaries

“Innovation is key to addressing the challenges communities across the country are facing,” says Janet Sharma, executive director of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. “As an Innovation Hub, we will be able to conceive and develop new ideas and programs that we will be able to share with the entire HandsOn Network for the benefit of all Americans.”

Over a period of three years, the practices and learning emerging from the Innovation Hubs will form the blueprint for evolving the model of civic engagement to meet 21st century needs of both volunteers and the communities in which they engage.

HandsOn Network is the volunteer-activation arm of Points of Light Institute and includes 250 community action centers that deliver 30 million hours of volunteer service each year across the country and in 16 countries around the world. These centers help people plug into volunteer opportunities in their local communities, partner with more than 70,000 corporate, faith and nonprofit organizations to manage volunteer resources, and develop the leadership capacity of volunteers. For more information, please visit www.HandsOnNetwork.org.

RSVP Celebrates Another Fantastic Year!

2011-06-27T16:40:00.001-04:00

Our Retired & Senior Volunteer Program celebrated Older Americans Month in June with a festive luncheon hosted by Classic Residence in Teaneck. 40 of our outstanding volunteers plus several guests attended the celebration. Each was presented with a personalized certificate and a beautifully colorful pin that says it all: “I Make a Difference.”

Jane Linter, Director of the Bergen County Department of Human Services, spoke about the power and importance of volunteering and the special ways volunteers enhance services of all kinds.

RSVP volunteers share their life of experience and knowledge in many ways: tutoring, reading to children, delivering meals, making friendly phone calls, preserving our environment, assisting at local blood banks and teaching computer skills.

If you are interested in sharing your time and talent to make the world a better place, please contact us at 201-489-9333!

Toot Your Corporate Horn!

2011-06-23T09:10:00.002-04:00

Sponsorships are available -- and registration is now open -- for the 16th Annual Bergen Bike Tour, which will be held on Sunday, September 25. Proceeds from the event benefit Tomorrows Children’s Fund at Hackensack University Medical Center and the Volunteer Center of Bergen County.

This unique family-oriented event, headquartered at Darlington Park in Mahwah, features cycling routes of 10, 25 and 50 miles through some of Bergen County’s most scenic areas followed by a festive home-cooked barbeque with fun and games for kids. Sponsorships begin at $500, and corporate sponsors at the level of $1,000 or may register unlimited number of employees at no extra charge. Plus -- the company’s logo will be featured on the sturdy long-sleeve t-shirt distributed to every rider and volunteer. TD Bank has already signed on as Kids’ Event sponsor, which features a Kids’ Ride for children under 10 plus crafts, activities, games and prizes.

“Each year, the Bike Tour turns over an average of 80% of the proceeds to the Volunteer Center and Tomorrow’s Children, a rate that far surpasses most events of this kind, and we are very proud of our philanthropic efficiency. Sponsorships allow us to keep expenses low and give the maximum amount to our charities. We’re looking forward to a tremendously successful event!” says Phil Murphy, Chairman, who is a CPA with Murphy, Miller Baglieri of Glen Rock.

Riders can register for the Bike Tour online now at http://www.bergenbiketour.org/.

For further information about corporate sponsorship or organizing a group to participate in the Bike Tour, call 877-BER-BIKE.

Introducing HandsOn Connect!

2011-06-21T13:05:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center is proud to introduce HandsOn Connect, a new state-of-the-art online database that connects prospective volunteers with a broad array of volunteer positions throughout our community. The layout and functionality are easy to use and will help you find volunteer oportunities that suit time, interest and location. You can sign up online and then share your experiences via Facebook,Twitter or any of the social networking tools linked directly to the site.

But that’s just the beginning! We encourage you to take some time and tour the new site and browse its fantastic functionality. This new technology with help your volunteering life be productive, easy to manage and fun! Click here to get started today!

Welcome to the Volunteer Center

2011-06-17T11:44:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center would like to welcome new Board members Patrick Fletcher, River Edge; Roger Monaco, Fort Lee; Joe Sherman, West Orange; Wendy Blacher, Allendale; Bob Johnston, Emerson; Karen Corso, Mahwah; Ann Lota, Hawthorne and James Brown, Teaneck.

Each brings a fresh perspective and tremendous talent that will enhance our programs and operations.

We look forward to working with all of you!

Catch the action at the Forum on the Future of Education

2011-06-13T10:26:00.000-04:00

Can’t make it out to the Bergen LEADS Forum on the Future of Education tomorrow? Don’t fret, because you can watch it streaming LIVE online!

With the help of our friends at the New Jersey School Boards Association, we will be bringing you all the action live from the event. Simply go to , http://www.livestream.com/njsba, tomorrow at 3:00pm and tune into the presentations by members of Bergen LEADS Class of 2011.

If you’d still like to attend the event, call Amanda Missey at 201-489-9454, ext. 119 or email her at amissey@bergenvolunteers.org.

No matter how you watch, you won’t want to miss it!

Forum on the Future of Education

Tuesday, June 14 - 3-5 PM

Bergen Community College – Moses Training Center

NonProfit Training: Plain English IT

2011-06-10T12:11:00.000-04:00

The Volunteer Center’s NonProfit Training and Resource Center will present a unique workshop targeted to those who deal with information technology: Plain English IT: Maximizing Your Technology While Minimizing Your Pitfalls on Friday, June 17 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Non-profit board members, executives, managers and any staff or volunteers who work with secure information will benefit from attending this workshop which, while comprehensive, is not a “techie-only” presentation. The workshop will be in plain English with concrete, easy-to-understand examples illustrating topics including:

E-mail pitfalls—secure file and e-mail transfers
Secure communications
HIPAA compliance
Cloud computing—what is it and how does it apply?
Network operations
Network security
How to purchase equipment and software
Improving your IT services while reducing expenses

Course leader is Richard Luna of Protected Harbor, a computer services outsourcing provider which offers website hosting and marketing, desktop outsourcing, and e-mail system services for non-profits and growing companies in New York, New Jersey and Texas.

Mr. Luna has been involved in the computer and programming field for more than 25 years—his customers include Fortune 100 companies such as the Library of Congress, Mellon Bank, CSC, Xerox, Bankers Trust and others.

Class size for Plain English IT is limited, and participants will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration and pre-payment ($35 or $25 for Agencymembers) is required. For more information or to register, e-mail training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call (201) 489-9454, ext.114.

Culmination of Bergen LEADS Seminar Year

2011-06-08T09:00:00.000-04:00

The Bergen LEADS Class of 2011 will celebrate completion of their seminar year on Tuesday, June 14. The culminating event will be a Public Forum on the Future of Education, which will be held at Bergen Community College from 3-5 PM, followed by graduation festivities.

Since the first Bergen LEADS monthly seminar last September, a recurrent theme running through every debate, presentation and site visit is that the current economic situation is forcing every provider of service at all levels of government to find ways to cut expenses and end duplication of services.

For their class project, Bergen LEADS participants were charged with researching the education system of 73 local school districts and exploring solutions to streamline the system, maintain standards, and ultimately ease the tax burden on Bergen County residents. Teams will present ideas around four main topic areas at the Forum:

Opportunity for Change through cooperation. Intriguing opportunities that school districts have been unable to implement because of a lack of personnel and/or expertise, coupled with intriguing ideas for substantive change.
Expanding use of technology to enhance learning. Many school systems offer online and distance learning opportunities; learn about the costs and benefits of gearing this system up to scale.
Delivery of Special Education. Special education is complex and costly for local school districts to provide. The team will discuss a service delivery model based upon multi-district consortiums.
Consolidation. A look at the potential cost savings if school districts in Bergen County shared district administrators (business managers, purchasing departments, human resources, transportation coordinators, etc...).

The Forum is open to the public free of charge. For more information about Bergen LEADS, and to register for the Forum, email amissey@bergenvolunteers.org or call 201-489-9454. ext. 119.

Graduation festivities are reserved for class members and other invited guests.

16th Annual Bergen Bike Tour!

2011-06-06T09:20:00.001-04:00

Save the Date!!!

Non-Profit Dilemma: Managing Change

2011-06-03T10:19:00.000-04:00

Non-profit leaders are invited to “Leadership and Managing Change,” a workshop on Wednesday, June 22, from 9:30 am to 12:00pm at the Volunteer Center, 64 Passaic Street in Hackensack.

In today’s competitive environment, “doing everything right” is not enough to achieve your organization’s full potential. You need enthusiastic executives and managers who can inspire their teams to work well with each other, welcome change and accept responsibility. An organization can be transformed by approaching problems in a different way.

Through experiential exercises, agency leaders will understand why they act the way they do, and see their natural leadership tendencies surface. They will learn how their attitudes and choices of behavior impact others and what personal changes will enhance their leadership skills to produce the most positive results for them and their organizations.

Course leader is Bob Williams, executive vice president and director of marketing of CultureWorks, Inc., a performance consulting company that enables people to transform their work environments to realize maximum performance and results.

Class size is limited, and participants will be enrolled on a first-come, first-served basis. Pre-registration and pre-payment is required ($35, $25 Agency Memebrs); the deadline for registration is June 17. For more information or to register, e-mail training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call (201) 489-9454, ext.114.

Your Help is Needed!

2011-06-01T14:26:00.000-04:00

In Monday’s Record, Harvy Lipman pointed out local pantries’ need for food. You can read the article here.

You can help! Local pantries need food now, and the situation is expected to get much worse during the summer. Contact a local branch of the local Center for Food Actions. Click here to view a list of items needed.

Carlstadt: Tues and Thurs 10am-3pm
301 Hoboken Road 07072
201-956-7630

Englewood: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Tuesday 9am-7pm
192 West Demarest Avenue
201-569-1804

Fairview: Tues and Thurs 9:30am-3:30pm, Wed 4pm-7pm
239 Anderson Avenue 07022
201-945-5831

Hackensack: Mon-Fri 9:30am-3:30pm
316 First Street 07601
201-883-9375

Mahwah: Tues-Fri 10am-2pm; Monday 10am-6:30pm
90 Ridge Road 07430 (next to Mahwah Library)
201-529-2029

Palisades Park: Mon and Fri 10am-4pm
451 Grand Avenue 07650
201-956-7630

Ringwood: Tues and Thurs 10am-1pm
145 Carletondale Road
201-529-2029

Saddle Brook: Mon, Wed, Thurs and Fri 9:30am-3pm
224 Midland Avenue
201-703-9857

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-30T07:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Memorial Day

from the Volunteer Center!

Public Forum on Future of Education

2011-05-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

Bergen County has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, and 60% of a homeowner’s tax bill goes to education. One remedy to out-of-control taxes might be to reduce costs associated with education. Bergen LEADS, the premier local civic leadership program for adults that is sponsored by the Volunteer Center of Bergen County, will present a Public Forum on the Future of Education on Tuesday, June 14. The event is the culmination of the Bergen LEADS seminar year.

The Bergen LEADS Class of 2011 has been exploring options to redesign the business of public education in Bergen County, with the goal of reducing the cost per student while maintaining or improving quality. Teams will present their models at this Forum, which will be held at Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Road, in Paramus, from 3-5 PM. The forum is open to the public free of charge but pre-registration is required; call 201-489-9454 Ext.119 to register or e-mail amissey@bergenvolunteers.org.

Party Like It’s 1966!

2011-05-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

Join us Saturday, December 3 as we celebrate the Volunteer Center’s 45th anniversary at our Heart of Gold Gala – With a Little Help from our Friends!

Companies Encouraged to Organize Summer Food Drives for Children

2011-05-23T13:52:00.000-04:00

Thousands of children from needy Bergen County families receive lunch during the school year through subsidized school meal programs. When schools close for summer vacation, these meals are not available, and low-income families often have to make the choice between paying rent or buying food.

To address this critical need, the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC) is coordinating a summer food drive. Companies are invited to host food drives from May to July to help low-income families; employee volunteers in participating companies collect “kid-friendly,” non-perishable breakfast and lunch food items.

The food collected during this initiative, entitled Brown Bag Buddies, will be delivered to the Center for Food Action and other local food pantries during the months of June, July and August.

A free information kit that describes the program and provides “how-to” instructions on running an employee food drive is available from the BVC, and can be obtained by calling 201-489-9454 Ext. 114, or email ttomasi@bergenvolunteers.org.

Since 2000, the Brown Bag Buddies initiative has distributed more than $326,000 worth of food and grocery gift cards. The goal for 2011 is 10,000 pounds of food. The sponsors for this year’s drive are United Water, BD, Rockland Electric and Sealed Air.

“We’re asking all companies in northern New Jersey to encourage their employees to participate in this summer food drive,” says Tess Tomasi, BVC Coordinator at the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. “Remember, hunger never takes a vacation.”

For more information about Brown Bag Buddies or other BVC programs, visit us online at www.nnjbvc.org, or contact us at (201) 489-9454, Ext. 114 or ttomasi@bergenvolunteers.org.

Summer Program Teaches Youth Leadership Skills

2011-05-20T10:20:00.002-04:00

The Volunteer Center is offering an innovative summertime program that provides young people with the leadership skills to play an active role in the community. The Center’s Youth Leadership Institute is taking applications for a summer session June 27-30, at Bergen Community College, in Paramus. Youth Leadership is open to students entering grades 8, 9 or 10 in September of 2011.

Prospective participants are required to submit an online application form by May 31. Upon acceptance to the program, the fee for each student is $200.00.

The mission of the Youth Leadership Institute is to provide youth with the encouragement, peer networks and leadership skills necessary for them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and begin a life-long journey of service. The interactive curriculum, of the caliber of training typically available only to corporate executives and government leaders, features a challenging series of lessons and exercises on community needs analysis, goal setting, team building, project planning, decision-making and other leadership dynamics.

For more information on the Youth Leadership Institute, call Debbie Emery at (201) 489-9454 ext. 118 or email at demery@bergenvolunteers.org.

Workshop on Creative Facility Issues for Non Profits

2011-05-18T11:33:00.001-04:00

The Volunteer Center invites non-profit leaders to “Creative Facility Options for Non-Profits—How Non-Profits are Looking at Facilities, Sharing Spaces, and Financing the Facilities They Want”. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, June 8, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon at the Volunteer Center’s offices in Hackensack.

Participants will get guidance and answers to such questions as:

Should you own or rent your facility?
Can you renegotiate your lease?
What are the benefits of co-locating with other non-profits?
Can you afford to purchase a facility?
What financing and subsidies are available to buy your facility?
What are your energy efficiency options; how to take advantage of solar energy and energy efficient choices.

The course leader is Keith Timko from Real Estate Advisory and Development Services (READS), a 501(c)3 organization that is an industry leader in non-profit real estate development. Since its inception in 2003, READS has developed more than $100 million of non-profit real estate. Its markets include charter schools, day care facilities, supportive housing, non-profit office facilities and manufacturing housing. READS can help groups further their mission, have a broader impact on the community, and bring organizational and long-term financial stability.

“Nearly all non-profits need a space in which to operate,” says Tess Tomasi, Volunteer Center training coordinator. “And while non-profits are experts at their own causes, they aren’t usually experts at real estate. This workshop can help them explore options for developing the right kind of space and how to get the financing that makes it a reality.”

Pre-registration and pre-payment is required; the fee is $35 and includes all course materials. The deadline for registration is June 3. For more information e-mail training@bergenvolunteers.org, or call (201) 489-9454, ext.114. Register on-line here!

A great Day at the Derby

2011-05-16T10:10:00.000-04:00

The band was playing, the drinks were flowing and the energy was buzzing as well over 200 guests spent a fantastic afternoon at the Volunteer Center’s 19th annual Derby Day Party. Held at White Beeches Country Club in Haworth, this year's Derby Day Party raised more than $35,000 for the Volunteer Center's programs and services in the community.

Highlights were silent and live auctions of fabulous items such as a 46" 3D Sharp TV, trips, Coach bag, Tiffany pearls and much more. MC Damian Albergo and auctioneer Bill Diana led the festivities and encouraged enthusiastic bidding, and everyone cheered as "Animal Kingdom" came from behind to win the Run for the Roses.

Judge for the “Most Elegant Hat” contest was VC Board member, Susan Russ and for the “Most Outrageous Tie” contest was Haworth Mayor John DeRienzo. Winner of "Most Elegant Hat" was Carol Nastos and of "Most Outrageous Tie" was Rashawn Gerald.

Thanks to all who attended and to our generous corporate sponsors: Sony, BD, The Reader's Digest's Association, TD Bank, Bergen Jaguar, Compensation Solutions, Englewood Hospital, Oritani Bank, 201 Magazine, Bergen.com, and Bergen Health & Life.

Donating Online: How to Make it Work for Your Non-Profit

2011-05-11T09:58:00.001-04:00

The Volunteer Center is presenting a very timely workshop that notn only covers basic options for using online donation tools, but also will help you decide the best option for your organization. We’ll examine how donation tools work and compare several, such as Razoo, Network for Good, JustGive and Guidestar. We’ll also discuss strategies for maximizing the effectiveness of your online donation process.

Our presenter is Marion Conway, an independent consultant working exclusively in the non-profit sector. A a popular workshop presenter, board retreat facilitator and speaker, Marion has published articles in Charity Channel’s Nonprofit Board and Government Review, Stevenson’s Major Gifts Report, and Canadian Fundraiser.

Date/Time: Tuesday, May 17, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Course Leader: Marion Conway – Marion Conway Consulting

Registration Fee: $45, $35 for member agencies (click here to register)

Audience: Board, Executive, Development, Communications, Marketing

Big Book Success!

2011-05-04T13:33:00.000-04:00

Over 2,000 books for children and adults were collected by the Northern New Jersey Business Volunteer Council (BVC) for a “Big Book Giveaway” held April 30 to benefit the children and parents in the Volunteer Center of Bergen County’s two mentoring programs: Mentoring Moms and Mentoring Youth. This project is part of the BVC’s annual Books in a Bag initiative, in which employee volunteers collect, sort, bag and deliver books to help children of low-income families discover the joy of reading. Since 2000, the BVC has distributed nearly 70,000 books through this program.

Motivating children to read is an important factor in student achievement and creating lifelong successful readers. Research has shown that children who are motivated and spend more time reading do better in school. Families in both mentoring programs often struggle to pay for food, rent, and utilities, so books are far down on the list of “must have” items. Consequently, the children and parents rarely own books of their own and many of the children neither read nor are read to. “Providing books is an important encouragement for reading,” says Ellen Rafferty, of BD, co-chair of the BVC.

To learn more about the BVC, visit www.nnjbvc.org.

Volunteer Center Receives Grant From TD Charitable Foundation

2011-05-02T09:59:00.000-04:00

The TD Charitable Foundation recently awarded a $10,000 grant to the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. Funds will support its Mentoring Moms program, which matches overwhelmed mothers, many of whom are single parents, with women mentors who help them with parenting issues, financial issues and generally act as confidants and friends, helping the mothers provide for their families.

The funds will be used to provide support workshops, as well as outings and trips for these families, many of whom have suffered from poverty, homelessness or isolation.

“We are so grateful to TD Charitable Foundation for supporting the mothers and children in our programs,” says Cindy Andrake, Program Director for Mentoring Moms. “Time spent with their mentors is free time. Free of the many things that have been hard for them to face daily in their environment. What a gift to have this respite and safe zone with a giving friend.”

To find out how to become a mentor, or to pledge a donation to support the Mentoring Moms program, call (201) 489-9454, or visit www.bergenvolunteers.org and click on mentoring programs.

Workshop on Creative Facility Issues for Non Profits

2011-05-01T09:23:00.000-04:00

Participants will get guidance and answers to such questions as:

Should you own or rent your facility?
Can you renegotiate your lease?
What are the benefits of co-locating with other non-profits?
Can you afford to purchase a facility?
What financing and subsidies are available to buy your facility?
What are your energy efficiency options; how to take advantage of solar energy and energy efficient choices.

Derby Day has Just the Ticket

2011-04-26T09:30:00.001-04:00

Only a ticket to our Derby Day party on May 7, will give you an exclusive opportunity to bid on FOUR Yanks vs. Red Sox tickets!

But that’s not all! We have beautiful Tiffany pearls, a fantastic beach houses in Point Pleasant and Martha’s Vineyard, a trendy Coach bag, and great sports memorabilia! Check out more Auction Items here or view our slideshow below.

All proceeds benefit a great cause. Just a taste of what you are supporting is the Volunteer Center’s new online database that links prospective volunteers with volunteer jobs. Our youth service activities are helping students, schools and groups do good work in the community. Our two Mentoring programs are helping more than 100 abused or neglected children and over 50 overwhelmed mothers towards a brighter future. Our Chore Volunteer Handyman Service keeps hundreds of seniors safe in their homes. Bergen LEADS is developing a new generation of community leaders schooled in issues of critical importance to Bergen County. Our Business Volunteer Council helps children and families in need.

So step right up! Join us May 7 from 3:30 – 7:00pm at White Beeches Country Club in Haworth. Get your tickets now online or call Jane He, 201-489-9454, ext. 125, to reserve your spot today!