Making a Difference in Your Community; MLK Day of Service 2025

Submitted by Christina Panarese, RSVP Coordinator 

 

“We cannot walk alone. And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.”

 

Many of us grew up hearing, and knowing, Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech. In his speech, Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of a world where we were all equals and worked together toward a common goal; a life filled with love and peace for all. Each year, on the third Monday of January, we honor Martin Luther King Jr. and the work he put toward that goal.

This MLK Day, January 20, 2025, at Volunteer Services we encourage you to follow his example, and give kindness, love, and peace back to your community. Help your neighbors by starting a food drive to support one of our many community food banks or signing up to help a homebound senior with their grocery shopping, being a friendly visitor, sharing your talents at a local senior center or doing a craft or science experiment with a group of kids whose families are in vulnerable circumstances.

At Somerset County Volunteer Services, we build partnerships with local organizations who provide much needed services to the community. Many of our volunteer opportunities are great for groups, so grab your family and friends, and give back to your community.

To learn more about our more than 20 partners, and the volunteer opportunities available, please reach out to Somerset County Volunteer Services at (908) 704-6358 or via email at volunteersvs@co.somerset.nj.us. And if you’re ready to take the leap, and become a volunteer, below you will find the link to our volunteer application. Once your application is submitted, our RSVP Coordinator Christina Panarese, will be in contact to help match you with the right volunteer opportunity for you!

 

Somerset County Volunteer Services Volunteer Application

 CENTRAL JERSEY HOUSING RESOURCE CENTER (CJHRC)

NEW UPDATED WEBSITE!
Community partners and clients are praising the new CJHRC website stating how easy it is to find what they are looking for, the mobile version is user friendly, the revised layout is easy to follow and the site effectively communicates lots of much needed information.  Check it out at www.cjhrc.org

 

SCAN THE CODE TO GET STARTED WITH CJHRC! 

Scan this QR Code to complete the CJHRC intake form, which is the first step for a CJHRC Counselor to assist and contact clients.   You can also call CJHRC at
908-446-0036 or email us at 2cjhrc@gmail.com.  Get important announcements by liking us on Facebook (Central Jersey Housing Resource Center) or following us on Instagram (cjhrc_housing).

  

UPCOMING 2025 FREE WEBINARS!!!

2-Day Virtual Homebuyer Webinar                                

 January 27, 2025 and January 29, 2025

(this is a 5.5-hour webinar covered over 2 days)

5:30 pm to 8:15 pm each day

Click here to see links to register

 

Want to become a homeowner but have questions? Lots of topics will be covered by experts presenting the home buying process at our 2-day virtual homebuyer webinar on January 27 & January 29, 2025 from 5:30 pm to 8:15 pm each day.  To get a certificate, it requires registering and attending both days. Once all requirements are met, you can earn a Homebuyer Certificate good for 1 year.  This certificate can assist with attaining special lower mortgage interest rates, reduced Real Estate Attorney fees and many down payment assistance grant programs. Contact a CJHRC Counselor at 908-446-0036 if you have questions or register above. 

 

Vehicle Leasing, Buying & Lemon Laws Overview

(Q&A session at end of webinar)    

 February 4, 2025

 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm

Click here to register

 

Looking to lease or buy a vehicle in the near future?  Buying or leasing a vehicle is expensive.  Monthly vehicle costs continue to rise – statistics show a 20% increase over the last 2 years.  This program is being offered since often consumers do not know what to ask before buying or leasing a vehicle and are usually unaware of the NJ Lemon Law protections. Click the link above for more details and to register.

FCHS:

• December Wellness Wednesdays: Join us for this month’s series of FCHS Wellness Wednesday webinars! These webinars take place every Wednesday at 12:30pm. Registration is required, but is free. To see January’s webinars, please visit: https://njaes.rutgers.edu/wellness-wednesdays/   
• NJ Empower to Prevent: the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP)
•  MEND Program Recruitment for 2025

 

The NDPP is an evidence-based, lifestyle change program, shown to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. The year-long virtual program focuses on modest weight loss, healthy eating and physical activity, stress reduction, and healthy coping.

Sessions are enrolling for May 2025. For more information on NJ Empower to Prevent program and eligibility for the program, contact fchs@co.somerset.nj.us

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ANR/Rutgers Master Gardeners:

• Native Plant Propagation Workshop: Join Somerset County ANR and Rutgers Master Gardeners of Somerset County for a Native Seed Propagation Workshop! The workshop will run in two sessions on January 22, 2025 and April 30, 2025. In these workshops, participants will learn about the importance of native plants, how easy it is to grow plants from seeds and incorporate them in the home landscape. Registration is required and includes BOTH sessions. Space is limited. Virtual attendance is available for those who cannot attend in person. To register, please visit https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_d0DbIDlnVMqlD0y. Additional questions may be directed to ANR Admin Assistant Ashley Higgins at higgins@co.somerset.nj.us.

This Week, A Story About Three Veterans Who Have Taken Small Steps and Made Giant Strides!

 

 

Sometimes, a little caring and education can go a long way!

We’re proud to offer our veterans a series of seven workshops focused on managing chronic pain using holistic alternatives to opioids. The goal is to prevent or reduce dependency and addiction to opioids. The workshops introduce the veterans to pain management solutions like gentle exercise, yoga, physical therapy, and chiropractic care.

And guess what..?! This past year, three vets started a mini walking club around their campus and are already telling us how they are feeling less pain and taking fewer opioids!! One of them is so thrilled because he doesn't wake up during the night anymore to take a painkiller - how wonderful is that?!

Your support helps us deliver these critical resources to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

Together, we can honor their service by giving them the tools they need to heal and thrive. Please join us by making your gift today!

Will you please join us in making a gift to this cause? Every dollar donated will be matched thanks to an amazing family in our community doubling your impact! By supporting this initiative, you’re investing in the health and well-being of youth and families and empowering individuals, all of whom deserve a healthy, purposeful life. 

Please visit here to make your tax deductible gift today.

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/bf1216b0/GuKXiEGFtEiObjhKZE2MsA?u=http://www.communityincrisis.org/

Annual Winter Coat Drive

(Pictured: Officer Tamburello, Stephanie Billitz, Lisa Federico)

The Peapack and Gladstone Police Department conducted their second annual Winter Coat Drive from November 4th -December 6th 2024 with the goal to help families in need with new or used coats, winter hats and gloves. Thanks to the generosity of the community, coats as well as numerous hats, scarves, and gloves were donated to the police department and dropped off at the Somerset County Department of Human Services to be distributed to local non-profit organizations that support Somerset County residents. Thank you to those who donated this holiday season!

Hi, my name is Lisette and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Master’s degree from Rutgers University, specializing in Management and Policy with a focus on Global Social Work and the Latino(a) Initiative for Service Training (LISTA). With over five years of experience, I have worked directly with children and families from diverse backgrounds, helping them navigate systemic barriers and advocating for their needs.

I currently serve as the Mental Health Administrator for Somerset County, and I am committed to being a strong advocate and voice for the local community. As a member of the Latinx community, I am dedicated to connecting individuals and families with resources and services that cater to diverse cultural and social backgrounds.

Outside of my professional work, I enjoy traveling and hiking, often exploring top trails with my family. I have made it a personal goal to visit all 63 national parks in the U.S., and to date, I have visited 26 of them. My adventures are an important part of my life, allowing me to bond with loved ones while exploring the natural beauty of the country.

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My name is Natasha Joseph-Williams. I am a master’s level Social Worker that graduated from Rutgers University. Most of my experience includes working in a non-profit providing intensive case management, ABA therapy, and working with the aging population.

Currently, I am the Human Services Navigator for the Department of Human Services, and I will be based at the Franklin Food Bank where I will be assisting the residents of Franklin with navigating community-based resources and application assistance.

When not working, I like to go for walks at various waterfront locations, hang with my family and friends, travel, and watch a lot of reality tv. A fun fact about me is that I was born in Montreal, Canada and I encourage everyone to visit at least once if you haven’t!

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My name is Brittany Lopez Cruz, and I’m a recent graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Throughout my studies, I developed a passion for community health and supporting others, volunteering with several non-profits and leading initiatives like the Rutgers Culture of Health program. As a mentor with the Rutgers Futures Scholars Program, I guided high school students, fostering leadership and empowerment.

I’m excited to apply my passion for public health and community service as the Human Services Navigator, where I will assist neighbors in accessing community resources and provide application support. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues on initiatives that promote well-being, equity, and community support.

In my free time, I enjoy nature, visiting amusement parks, baking, and spending time with family and friends.

Below are various job opportunities available within Somerset County including with partner agencies/organizations. For all inquiries, contact the organization directly.

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Community in Crisis

Data and Communications Coordinator (Part-Time)

Description:

Lead outreach through data-informed and driven social media management, and community engagement.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong ties to Somerset County and knowledge of local resources.
• Second language fluency is strongly preferred to better serve our diverse community.
• Passion for community-driven recovery support. 

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to kmusgrove@communityincrisis.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Position details here.

 

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Community in Crisis

Peer Recovery Specialist (Full-Time)

Details:

Provide direct support to individuals in recovery, connect them to local resources, and build a recovery-friendly environment.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong ties to Somerset County and knowledge of local resources.
• Second language fluency is strongly preferred to better serve our diverse community.
• Passion for community-driven recovery support. 

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to kmusgrove@communityincrisis.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Position details here.

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United Way

Tax Preparation Program Support (Part-Time)

Job Type:

• Part time, temporary - 15 hours per week – January 6 – April 15

Compensation:

$20 an hour not to exceed 200 hours

Benefits – up to 4 hours of paid time off (PTO)

Primary Responsibilities:

• Manage online schedule using Acuity Online software

• Update and maintain appointment calendars for tax sites

• Return phone messages and schedule tax appointments

• Manage email messages in tax prep mailboxes

• Make reminder calls 24 hours before scheduled appointments

• Provide administrative and logistical support for VITA Program

• Coordinate the distribution of equipment and supplies to tax sites before and during the filing season

• Monitor supplies and re-order as needed

Click here for full job description.