Monday, December 18, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Monday Crew #1!

According to a MetLife/National Alliance for Caregiving report, it is estimated that about 34 million Americans are caregivers at some level for an older parent or other relative—and of that number, 15% live one or more hours away from the care recipient.  Approximately one-third of requests for Chore Service come from relatives of the client’s, who are concerned about the ability of their loved ones to continue living safely in their home and age in place.


 
Mike Silverstein, Paul Siegel, Al White, Mike Cargill make up the Monday, Chore Van #1 crew.


Ms. J  emails:  “Grandpa needs help!  I stumbled across your website while trying to find some extra help for my grandfather.  He is in his 80’s and just returned to his home after a prolonged hospitalization.  He is having a hard time keeping up with simple home maintenance.  My family and I live in Florida, so we aren’t able to be with him all the time.  We noticed that he doesn’t have any smoke alarms in the house.  Can you help? (an appointment was scheduled asap) Thank you so much.  It’s people like your volunteers that really prove there is still some good in the world!”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Monday, December 11, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Tuesday Van #1 Crew!

Interesting fact:  A nursing home stay costs $75,000-$100,000 per year.  A study by the Weintraub Foundation showed that home repairs help an elderly person live at home for 13 months longer than expected (K. Walker, Baltimore Sun, 2012)



Terry O’Connor, George Ann Muller and Harvey Rappaport are the Tuesday, Chore Van #1 team.


Mrs. C writes:  “I’m sending a B-I-G thank you to your organization and volunteers.  I didn’t know what to expect when I scheduled my repairs, and I was a little apprehensive.  When I saw your team of 3 volunteers with warm smiles and name tags displayed, I immediately felt at ease.  The speed and expertise with which they fixed everything—from a dangerous protruding screw on a doorplate, to installing a lock, to tightening a toilet seat—was most impressive.”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Monday, December 4, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Nunzio!

For the past 5 years,  Nunzio Garzino has been volunteering for Chore with the Thursday, Chore Van #2 crew.  Prior to his retirement, he was a Senior Vice President/Branch Manager for Prudential Financial, Thompson McKinnon Securities and Wachovia Securities.  His financial career spanned 44 years.  He loves to play golf, and is out on the golf course two or three times a week, sometimes participating in tournaments and club championships.  He considers himself a ‘jack of all trades’ when it comes to handyman skills.  He and his wife also volunteer at their local church. 

“I could say that I volunteer for Chore because it gives me something to do, but the reality is that I enjoy helping other people.  How many times have we received compliments from widows and widowers—I don’t have enough fingers and toes to count them all.  We hear comments from our clients such as: ‘Oh, I only owe $36 for two grab bars installed by Chore?  I called a local handyman and he wanted to charge me $300 for the first grab bar, and $150 more for the second one.  Being of service is what keeps me coming back week after week and year after year.  Plus all the Chore volunteers are great to work with, especially the ones on my Thursday crew.”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Thursday, November 30, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Jim!

Jim Bergen’s last occupation was as a freight elevator operator across the street from the Work Trade Center—he witnessed the collapse of the Twin Towers on 9/11.

Before that, he worked in the auto repair business and as an apartment building superintendent.  He enjoys crossword puzzles and will take a stab at fixing anything!  He was inspired to join Chore 3 years ago by his now disabled friend and former Chore volunteer Kevin, and he has been a member of the Wednesday, Chore Van #1 crew ever since.  

He tells the story of the 85 year old lady who pushed him out of the way so she could show him exactly what she wanted him to fix.  When the subject of age came up, she politely informed him that he was ‘no spring chicken himself’!  “Being a part of Chore means helping people who can’t help themselves.  I get more satisfaction out of doing what I do on Wednesdays for some needy person than if I were getting paid for it!”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Monday, November 27, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Bruce!

Prior to joining Chore 3 years ago with the Wednesday, Chore Van #1 crew, Bruce Linke managed a team that was responsible for writing and maintaining raw material, in-process package materials, artwork and finished product specifications for a global consumer products company.  In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, motorcycling, home repair and kitchen remodeling. 

“When I retired, I wanted to donate some of my free time and skills to help others.  I’ve been in many residences and it is sometimes sad to see the condition of peoples’ environments.  Regardless, most people are appreciative of what we do and it’s a good feeling to know that you helped to make things a little better for them.”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Monday, November 20, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Bill!

Bill Nugent was Director of Military Sales/Marketing, world -wide Military commissaries, exchanges and ships afloat before retiring and joining Chore in 2010, as part of the Friday, Chore Van #2 crew.  He also volunteers at his swim club and has been a mentor of veterans at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Yellow Ribbon Program.  He enjoys golf, spends time at his local health club and working on his yard. 

“Chore provides an opportunity to troubleshoot problems, learn some new things, enjoy camaraderie of fellow volunteers and clients and give back to society.”

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - George Ann!

George Ann Muller works for NBC as a lighting director part time.  She has been volunteering with Chore for the past 7 years, with the Tuesday, Chore Van #1 crew.  She is also involved with the Chance At Life Cat Rescue organization.  In her spare time she enjoys gardening and carpentry.

“Chore means that people can stay in their homes longer, and that is important.  Also, it is very difficult to get anyone to come out to do minor fixes—that’s where Chore comes in.  People need our help and I am happy to offer it.  As the only woman on the crews, I am often met with surprise, and also I am asked if I am married to one of the guys!"

Learn more about the Chore Program online here.

Monday, October 30, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Pete!

Pete Tilgner volunteers with Chore on Mondays and Wednesdays, on the Chore Van #2.  He has been with us for 8 years.  He was an art teacher for 37 years at Ben Franklin Middle School before retiring.  Hiking and trail maintenance and development are two of his other interests.  He was a New York/New Jersey Trail Supervisor for Sterling Forest State Park for 14 years, and currently helps maintain seven miles of trails at the Tenafly Nature Center.  

Since retirement, for the past 17 years he has been creating his own art work in the form of digital/manipulated photo images, samples of which can be found at petertilgner@photoart.com .  “Chore means being with like-minded friends doing work that helps people live safer, better lives.  I volunteer for Chore because it allows me to use the skills I have developed over the years—the work gives me satisfaction in knowing that I was instrumental in keeping our clients safe at home.  The added benefit is not only meeting the people of Bergen County, but also working with my fellow volunteers.  Every day is an adventure.  A trailer park on Route 46 or a high rise in Fort Lee—we see it all.  The most recent memorable moment was a client in Teaneck who had a majestic cat that required a pet ladder to climb into the easy chair it was regally occupying.  I enjoy the pets in peoples’ homes.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Lowell!

Lowell Patton has been volunteering for Chore for the past 6 years, and is a member of the Friday, Van #2 crew.  He is a graphic artist and set designer, and worked in video animation.  In his spare time, he still creates computer animation for friends, constructs cabinets and works on maintaining his vacation home in the mountains. “I feel a great sense of satisfaction in helping others in need.  I always try to inject a bit of humor where possible, when interacting with the clients—they all seem to enjoy that.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Redefining Retirement - A New Initiative of the Bergen Volunteer Center

Redefining Retirement - A New Initiative of the Bergen Volunteer Center

Volunteer Manager Louisa Hellegers and her team of Redefining Retirement  Matchmakers have started to get the word out about the important role retirees play in keeping Bergen County's non-profit community and its volunteer opportunities informed, invigorated, and in tune with providing great services through engagement.

You can find this dedicated group of volunteers all over our county. "Office" hours are once a month in 5 sites: Garfield, Englewood, Teaneck,
Westwood and Ridgewood. Check them out on Bergen Volunteer Center's website
by clicking on http://bergenvolunteers.org/redefining-retirement.html.

To find out more, contact Louisa Hellegers at
lhellegers@bergenvolunteers.org.

Monday, October 16, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Steve!

Steve Kaplowitz has been a member of the Thursday Chore Van #1 crew for 5 years.  Prior to retiring, he worked in IT for 35 years, and he was a consultant to large companies setting up HR, Payroll and Benefits Systems. 

 Volunteering is a way of life for Steve; in addition to Chore, he delivers meals for Pascack Valley Meals on Wheels, he visits at-home clients and delivers holiday meals for the Jewish Home in Rockleigh, and he is on the Board of the Warriors’ Run, Inc., a charity motorcycle ride benefiting veterans’ organizations.  When he has some free time, he enjoys fishing and winter skiing, bicycling, and is forming a motorcycle riding club with friends. “We visited a shut-in client who spent her days looking out her window at goings-on outside.  Her roll-down window shade stuck in the down position and she could not raise it.  She could not enjoy doing what she loved.  I removed the roller, rolled it up, reinstalled it, and it worked perfectly.  From that one minute’s work, I saw the joy restored in her face.  I find my time with Chore as an enjoyable day spending time with the friends I have made on the crew; hearing stories from our clients, and giving back to people who need our help, as thanks for my and my family’s blessings.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Monday, October 9, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Paul!

Prior to joining Chore’s Monday Van #1 crew 12 years ago, Paul Siegel was a civil/industrial engineer.  He also volunteers on the Architectural Control Committee of his Homeowners’ Association.  In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his grandchildren, fishing, playing cards and ‘tinkering’ around the house.  “I take great pleasure in helping others, and when they thank us profusely, it gives me a true sense of ‘worth’.  Volunteering with Chore also gives me an opportunity to wake up at an ungodly hour, as though I were back in the rat race!”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Teen LEADS comes to the Applied Technology High School

The Bergen Volunteer Center is excited to announce our launch of the newest TeenLEADS program, Applied Technology High School (ATHS) TeenLEADS.  This high school program, located on the Paramus Campus of Bergen Community College, provides students a unique educational experience through a blend of academic high school curriculum, college classes, and hands-on technical training. With a curriculum that is centered on “smart machines,” students will learn to apply math, science, and technology to hands-on projects in the fields of automation, electronics, and advanced manufacturing. Through this program, students will learn essential skills needed to pursue a career in a wide variety of areas including engineering technology. This training will be coupled with the dual enrollment coursework needed to allow students to earn advanced standing into several technical associates programs at the college, including an A.A.S. program in General Engineering Technology. Associates degrees earned at Bergen Community College are transferable to all four-year public colleges and universities in New Jersey. 
“ATHS TeenLEADS will give our students an opportunity to explore their community and civic engagement as an exciting addition to their academic programs.  The students that are participating in this school year-long exploration have chosen to do so as a club,” stated teacher and program advisor Gebhardt Zurburg. Debbie Emery, Director of Community and Youth Engagement for the Bergen Volunteer Center added, “This is going to be a terrific opportunity for students to look at Bergen County- based issues, including law and public safety, environment, healthcare, and government.”

Teen LEADS is a leadership program for high school students to learn about local government and public policy. Students analyze community issues and develop new approaches to problem solving. The program is designed to get students excited about public policy and how their community is governed. At the completion of the program, students will have developed the tools needed to affect change in their community and transform lives.  To find out more about this program, contact Debbie Emery at demery@bergenvolunteers.org or 201-489-9454, x202.

Monday, October 2, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Mike, Dennis, & Andy!


According to a 2014 Bergen County Health Assessment, 1 in 3 households has at least one adult over the age of 65. Some of these people move into nursing homes or managed care facilities, as mobility and overall health begin to decline,  but as people are living longer and healthier lives, they’re opting to stay in their homes longer,--a process referred to as Aging in Place.  A survey by AARP found that 90 percent of seniors want to remain in their own homes.  By providing minor enhancements like grab bars or interior railings, Chore helps residents continue to live in their beloved homes safely.


Mike Conlon, Dennis Beezley, and Andy McDonough are the Friday, Chore Van #3 crew

Mr. M writes:  “Once more you have come to my rescue.  Thanks to the grab bars you installed, I am now able to visit parts of my home that I have not seen in over 5 years!  Many thanks to the crew for making this possible.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Thursday, September 28, 2017

Help Hurricane Victims with MedShare

Dear Friends and Volunteers of MedShare,

Like all of you, we’ve watched events in Texas, Florida & Puerto Rico unfold with a heavy heart and a desire to help our fellow citizens. Flooding has displaced thousands and many communities have been entirely cut off by flood waters. Clinics in the area have been cut off from supplies and support. Many hospitals have been evacuated while others are relying on backup systems. Clinics around the state have been inundated with a higher volume of patients as people leave the Houston region for safety. 

MedShare is asking for your support.  We are partnering with the Texas Diaper Bank to help families care for their loved ones, and are collecting basic care items to ship to Houston area medical organizations.  Below is a list of needed items that can be brought to the MedShare warehouse in Secaucus, NJ. 

·        Diapers sizes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
·        Adult diapers for senior citizens (sizes M/L and L/XL)
·        Pull-ups sizes 2T-3T, 3T-4T,  and 4T-5T
·        Wipes

We are also collecting personal hygiene items:

·        Hand Sanitizer
·        Soap
·        Shampoo
·        Toothpaste
·        Toothbrushes
·        Infant Formula (Powdered only)
·        Dressings
·        Bandages

MedShare will collect, warehouse and deliver all donated items to our partners on the ground.  So that we do not create an additional burden on first responders, we will ship all of the collected supplies based on the needs of our partner organizations. 

MedShare is also closely monitoring Hurricane Irma as it approaches Florida, and will be ready to collect items for the people of that state should they need our support. 

Items can be delivered or shipped to MedShare (701 Penhorn Avenue, Unit #3, Secaucus, NJ 07094).  Drop off hours are Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm, and Saturdays from 9:00am – 12:00pm.

To learn more about MedShare’s current disaster response relief efforts, please click http://www.medshare.org/flood-relief/.  

If you have any questions, please email Jason Montagna, jmontagna@medshare.org.  We are grateful for your ongoing support!    

Monday, September 25, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Ed L.!

Prior to joining Chore and the Friday, Van #2 crew about  1 ½ years ago, Ed Leone was in the graphic arts business—publishing, printing and distributing trade, higher ed and college text books-- for almost 40 years.  He enjoys golf and working with his hands.  He also volunteers in his town’s Community Band, playing the trumpet, after a hiatus from playing for almost 36 years.  He says he needs a little work, but is looking forward to successfully re-mastering this instrument again this summer!  “In the short time I have been with Chore, I find it is a valuable resource for seniors and disabled persons, to be able to have repairs done, that they no longer can do themselves.  It leaves me with a good feeling that I was able to help our clients make their lives a little better.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Monday, September 18, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Bob, John, Lee & Elliott!

Although our name:  ChoreVolunteer Handyman Service is not an acronym, a recent client made this suggestion as to what  “Chore” stands for:  Caring Handypersons Offering Repairs for the Elderly.  What do you think?  Anyone have any other ideas?


Bob Nafash, John Tercek, Lee McQuaid and Elliott Wolk make up the Friday, Chore Van #1 crew.

Mrs. A writes: “Truck Number 1 (John, Elliott, Lee and Bob) are a blessing.  They understand what kind of repairs are important to me.  They were prepared and very helpful.  Chore Service is a gift.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Thursday, September 14, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Mike, Pete, Tim & Tom!

The volunteers at Chore perform minor home repairs that seniors and disabled homeowners can neither do themselves, nor find anyone else to do so.  Having our clients live safely and comfortably in their own homes has always been our goal.


Mike Schear, Pete Tilgner, Tim Africano and Tom Van Hook are the Wednesday, Chore Van #2 crew.

Mrs. M writes: “I am elated that I can finally use my garden hose without looking like I just came out of the shower! Water was squirting all over the place and ME, until your crew readjusted the hose connection.  The gentlemen who came to assist me were knowledgeable and so polite.  God bless them.  I know it was just a hose, but to me—it was like getting a diamond ring!


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Monday, September 11, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Mike C!

Mike Conlon has been a part of the Friday, Chore van #3 crew for the past 5 years.  Before retiring, he was a heating and air-conditioning engineer with the New York Board of Education.  In his spare time, likes to play golf and enjoy his 19 grandchildren!  “I enjoy meeting all the clients and being able to help them.  I also enjoy interacting with the other Chore volunteers.  This is a valuable service for senior citizens and disabled persons.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Thursday, September 7, 2017

Helping to Destigmatize Recovery from Addiction

The New Jersey Recovery Advocates will be holding their annual event at Liberty State Park on Saturday September 16, 2017 with a walk at 10 am and a concert at noon.


The event will feature bands, food trucks, vendors and speeches surrounding the reality of recovery.

NJ Recovery Advocates is a  grassroots organization that hopes to eliminate the isolation, shame, stigma and discrimination associated with addiction.


Heroin addiction is a growing epidemic, permeating every county. Addiction to opiates, alcohol and other substances are threatening our families, schools, and communities. Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding this deadly disease often prevents individuals from seeking the treatment they so desperately need.

Amongst our entertainment, NJRA will feature a salsa band to better attract the marginalized Hispanic community who have been isolated by cultural and language barriers. The festival is free and open to the public.

With the New York City skyline as a backdrop and, most fitting, the Statue of Liberty standing tall and strong, this event will celebrate freedom from addiction. Join New Jersey as they form together to remove the barriers who seek healthy and productive lives in recovery.

The @BCVolunteers and @BergenLEADS are proud to support and promote the work of New Jersey Recovery Advocates. Let's all work together to support those in recovery stay healthy and strong!

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Mentoring Moms Takeover the Parision Beauty Academy for Back to School Makeovers!




Areli and her children from the Mentoring Moms program show off their new stylish haircuts after their appointment at Parisian Beauty Academy. 

Every summer for the past 8 years the Parisian Beauty Academy, a Paul Mitchell Partner School in Hackensack, has invited the Mentoring Moms families to their salon for a private event.  This annual event is a family favorite for mothers who often struggle to make ends meet and can’t afford routine haircuts in a professional salon. The cosmetology students, instructors and staff at Parisian offer free haircuts so that every mom and child who attends the event leaves the salon with a clean haircut, a smile on their face and ready for back to school.

Thank you to the staff of Parisian Beauty Academy for your continued effort to help others in the community.

Monday, September 4, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Andy!

Andy McDonough has been with Chore for 8 months, as part of the Friday, Van #3 crew.  He worked right out of college for a large construction company in Pennsylvania as a carpenter framing houses.  For most of his career, he was a university professor teaching human anatomy and related subjects to physical therapy students at New York University. In addition to being an adjunct professor at over a dozen schools in the New York-Metro area, he also taught in Taiwan and Russia.  He enjoys woodworking and is a semi-professional photographer.  He also volunteers with Meals on Wheels. “Volunteering with Chore provides me with a chance to help people in the community and spare them some of the expense of hiring carpenters, plumbers and electricians.”


Support Chore and the many other programs at the Bergen Volunteer Center at our Annual Hearts of Gold Gala on Thursday, November 9 at the Stony Hill Inn. Visit bergenvolunteers.org to learn more.

Thursday, August 31, 2017

Hurricane Harvey and Volunteerism

I think we are all thinking about Hurricane Harvey and the people of southeastern Texas.  And of course, we want to know what we can do to help.  I met recently with Jocelyn Gilman and Muraad Abussalaam of the NJ Red Cross and they offered lots of great information that I am happy to pass along.
 
Ten month old Astro Arriaga sleeps in a Red Cross Shelter in Victoria, Texas.
Photo by Daniel Cima for The American Red Cross – August 26, 2017
 
The most important thing to know in the wake of a natural disaster is that cash donations are actually the best way to help. Money can be used to get local supplies and to give direct aid to victims.  While we often think about sending supplies, we need to recognize that things are hard to transport over long distances and hard to store.  With so much of southeastern Texas flooded, any in-kind donations are being routed to Dallas--3 and 1/2 hours away.

When making a donation, be sure that you have chosen a reputable nonprofit.  The NJ Division of Consumer Affairs warns us to avoid "charities" that have Hurricane Harvey in their names, as they might be scams.

You can donate blood locally and it will help supplies nationwide, which will help Harvey victims. There are other good suggestions for ways to help in this article.

Finally, another way to not feel so helpless in the wake of so much suffering is to get involved locally. Start by making sure you and your family are prepared for a man-made or natural disaster.  The Red Cross has a new free app (available at the iTunes App Store and Google Play) that provides incredible information and functions.

Perhaps you want to be trained as a Red Cross or CERT team volunteer, so that you can be ready if and when you are needed.

Jocelyn and Muraad reminded me that each year, most of the time the Red Cross is responding to house fires. Fire prevention, fire safety and smoke detectors are things we can take care of immediately.  By taking care of ourselves and our neighbors, we insure that the resources needed in Texas can get there.

Stay safe. Stay involved. #bergengivesback #bcvolunteers

Lynne


Monday, August 28, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Lowell, Bill, Ed and Carlos!

New Jersey Magazine honored Chore through its “Seeds of Hope” award, recognizing charitable organizations and residents of the Garden State.  Additionally, Chore was chosen out of several hundred applicants to be featured in a WABC-TV special, Volunteers Across America, which was aired on ABC affiliates throughout the country.  Chore has also been featured on numerous TV and radio newscasts, in stories on talk shows and in print media in the Northern New Jersey area.


Lowell Patton, Bill Nugent, Ed Leon and Carlos Arizaga are the Friday, Chore Van #2 crew.


Mr. and Mrs. S write: “Thank you for your excellent and prompt service.  This was our first experience with Chore and it was First Class—all the way!  Skillful and professional phone gal in the office and skillful and efficient “techies” on the van! 

Thursday, August 17, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Mike!

Mike Silverstein has been a Chore volunteer for three years, and is part of the Monday, Chore Van #1 crew.  Prior to his 35 years as a full time college professor, he was employed by manufacturing and consulting firms as an industrial engineer.  After retiring from full time teaching in 1997, he taught part time until 2014. He recently became chairperson of the MS Swim-In Board, and is a member of both the senior housing and transportation committees in Teaneck. He enjoys woodworking and has created over 100 wine cork-corkboards for friends and family.  He was a competitive bullseye shooter and competitive small bore rifle shooter for many years.  “I enjoy working with my mind and hands, and also enjoy the camaraderie of working with people my own age, helping individuals who are less fortunate financially or physically than I.”

Monday, August 14, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Rob, John, Tom & Steve!

The Chore Program and its volunteers have been featured in an article about giving back to the community in an issue of ‘This Old House’ Magazine.  Chore is a recipient of the prestigious NJ Governor’s Award for Service to Senior Citizens.  Chore was named a Daily Point of Light by the Points of Light Foundation, the Corporation of Community Service and the Knights of Columbus for its remarkable record of community service and exemplary volunteerism. 


Rob Rossi, John Tercek, Tom Veit and Steve Kaplowitz are the members of the Thursday, Chore Van #1 crew.


Mrs. O writes:  “I commend you on such excellent help for us seniors, so in need.  The Chore crew worked so hard at my home for an extended time to put air conditioners in for me and my disabled son.  I am 83 years old and living on a limited income.  We never could afford outside help.  I cannot thank you enough for these very special men you sent!  We seniors are so lucky for this organization and I hope everyone is as grateful as I am for all of you.”

Monday, August 7, 2017

Meet the Chore Volunteers - Joe C!

Joe Cutolo has been with Chore since 2009, and he works on two crews each week—the Monday Chore Van #3 and Tuesday, Chore Van #2.  Prior to joining Chore, he worked in the oil industry for 40 years and operated oil tankers world-wide.  When he is not volunteering for Chore, he spends much time as Commander of American Legion Post 21 in Cresskill, supporting veterans and the community.    In his spare time, he enjoys making wooden model sailing ships and gardening.  “I have been fortunate in my lifetime and enjoy helping those who can use a helping hand.  I derive a great sense of satisfaction.  It is a reminder that my problems are insignificant compared to those of some clients we visit.  I have made some good friendships with the Monday and Tuesday crews, and we have shared many different repair techniques and skills.”

Thursday, August 3, 2017

WHAT'S ON MY MIND!

 
Bergen County's Hidden Therapeutic Gem - by Elma

One of the greatest advantages of getting the opportunity to work at the Bergen Volunteer Center is the ability to visit the many institutions in Bergen County - many of which I had not known about before.

One such institution was the New Alliance Academy. Just a few weeks shy of summer vacation, Debbie Emery had invited me to go along with her and Eric Fuchs-Stengel to New Alliance Academy. Pulling up to the school, taking in its beige building hooded by its green canopy, I thought nothing of it. I thought nothing of it because I was not familiar with the institution.

But, when I stepped inside I was overwhelmed by its significance.

New Alliance Academy is a high school for teenagers experiencing acute psychological distress. In addition to meeting the student's’ educational needs, the Academy also provides continuum of care which provides the students with emotional and therapeutic services. 

As I walked through their halls, I witnessed the impact of New Alliance Academy. The classrooms were lined with bookshelves containing everything from classic literature to political commentary books. The walls were covered with the artwork from the students and their well written papers.

I also had the opportunity to talk with the teachers. The investment and care which they showed for their students was remarkable. They, including the principal, knew each student at a personal level.

Their care for the students allowed them to see the need to engage them in community service. The three of us were there to discuss the importance of becoming involved in the community. Volunteerism encourages unity, leadership, confidence, discipline, and commitment. These are skills that are important for all students to possess, regardless of the type of school they attend.

Although I was there to inform the faculty of New Alliance Academy about the significance of community service, I came away, that day, learning more about Bergen County.

Our county has hidden gems. For me, the New Alliance Academy was a gem that I had the privilege of uncovering.

 


Tuesday, August 1, 2017

A Message From Our CEO

Dog Days of Summer

Growing up, my father was a college administrator. Now married to a high school principal, August has continued to be that quiet before the storm, that period of reflection before the rush of the fall semester.  August through Labor Day has always been the run up to the "new year" for me and a time for resolutions and plans. 

So what are nonprofits doing in August?  Most are planning for a VERY busy September through December.  And all are thinking about how to engage volunteers in their important work.  

Here at the Bergen Volunteer Center we are: 

--Actively recruiting volunteers for our programs--Chore handypersons, and mentors for moms and teen agers;

--Making-It-Home is gearing up to furnish the new Veterans apartments in Emerson in September;

--Opening days for Bergen LEADS, Teen LEADS and College LEADS are being finalized;

--Office hours for our Redefining Retirement "matchmakers" are being scheduled;

-- And we are planning the Fall Volunteer Fair to be held on September 12th at the Paramus Park Mall.

So in the dog days of summer, the quiet before that first school bell rings, as you curl up with the last stack of beach novels and magazine articles, we hope you will also think about volunteering this fall.  And remember two things:

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart."
--Elizabeth Andrew 

AND

"Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. . . . You don't have to know the second theory of thermodynamics in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."
--Martin Luther King, Jr.

Enjoy the Dog Days of Summer,
Lynne