Monthly Archives: October 2023

5 Fun Ways Grandparents Can Leave a Legacy of Giving

Explore interesting ways grandparents can foster generosity in grandchildren, creating a meaningful legacy of giving.

The role of a grandparent in a child’s life is incredibly special and holds immense influence. As a grandparent, you have a unique opportunity to shape your grandchild’s character, instill values, and leave a legacy that extends far beyond material possessions. 

One of the most impactful legacies you can leave is teaching them the importance of giving and cultivating charitable habits. This not only helps create a more compassionate and caring individual but also contributes to a kinder and more empathetic society. The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is inherently powerful and intimate, making it an ideal platform for imparting such important life lessons. 

This article will explore various ways grandparents can inspire and nurture a spirit of generosity in their grandchildren, leaving a legacy that truly makes a difference.

5 Fun Ways Grandparents Can Leave a Legacy of Giving

1. Model Generosity

Modeling generosity is vital in child development as it cultivates empathy, instills moral values, and promotes gratitude. It’s simple: children learn by observing adults! 

When they see adults being generous, it teaches the value of community cooperation and sets a positive example for children to emulate, shaping them into compassionate individuals.

Meaningful Way to Instill Giving

Does your family legacy include a rich history of philanthropic deeds? Share about the generous acts that have shaped your family’s story over the generations. If possible, explain how these acts of kindness left their imprint on the world.

2. Volunteer Together

Volunteering promotes empathy and understanding of others’ circumstances, vital for developing a giving nature.  This firsthand experience helps kids of all ages understand the struggles faced by others, fostering compassion and a desire to help. 

Also, volunteering together nurtures a giving nature, encouraging children to contribute positively to their communities and beyond. This sense of social responsibility, once developed, often extends beyond the volunteering experience, influencing other areas of life as well. 

Volunteerism in Action

Find a local agency that has volunteer opportunities for “kids” of all ages — from your youngest grandchild to you! If you’re in the New Jersey area, consider contacting one of our partner agencies and helping at the Nutley Family Service Bureau Food Pantry or Family Service League, or one of the other 9 agencies we support.

3. Set up a Charity Jar

This creates a visual representation of the act of giving, serving as a tangible reminder of the importance of giving. It allows children to see their contributions accumulate over time, reinforcing the notion that every little bit helps. 

This hands-on approach not only makes the concept of charity more accessible but also makes the act of giving a routine part of their lives. Furthermore, it can spark conversations about charity, generosity, and the impact of their actions on the wider community.

Giving in Action

Choose a transparent jar and position it in a visible spot for everyone to see. Think about marking levels on the side of the jar to track the growing contributions. Set up friendly contests to fill up the jar before a specific event, such as a holiday or birthday. 

4. Involve Kids in Charitable Decisions

Allowing your grandkids to play a part in charitable decisions helps them to understand the thought process behind giving. In addition, it helps to remind them of their value and involvement, fostering a sense of responsibility. Moreover, it cultivates a culture of generosity in their hearts, preparing them to be thoughtful and giving individuals in the future.

Explain Your Why

Talk with your grandchildren about the causes you back and why they matter to you. Explain how your donations help and the real changes they make. If you’re a supporter of a Greater Newark Holiday Fund partner agency, share their website and explore the good work happening in Newark thanks to these initiatives.

5. Read Books about Giving and Kindness

Literature can be a powerful tool in shaping behaviors and values, including generosity. 

Grandparents reading to their grandchildren is a powerful bonding experience that imparts valuable life lessons and wisdom. These shared moments can shape a child’s understanding of the world, foster empathy, and instill important values. Additionally, these sessions enhance a child’s mind, imagination, speech, and cultivate a lifelong love for reading and learning. The impact of these shared experiences can profoundly influence a child’s life. 

Books to Read Today

To influence your grandchild in the area of giving and generosity, numerous books beautifully illustrate these concepts. In addition to the ones listed in a recent article called Cultivating Generosity in Kids: Inspiring Giving Through Reading, consider an old favorite: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. This classic picture book explores the selfless love and generosity of a tree for a boy as he grows up and demonstrates empathy and the enduring power of unconditional giving and the profound impact it can have on our lives. 

Learn more about our partners: Impact by the Numbers: Family Service Bureau’s mental health sessions

Leaving a Legacy of Generosity

The role of a grandparent is not just about spoiling grandchildren with love and treats; it’s about shaping their character, instilling values, and leaving a legacy of generosity. To support you on this incredible journey, we have created a guide called 10 Ways to Raise Kids to Give, filled with practical tips and strategies. 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to positively impact the kids in your life. Click here to download our free guide now and start nurturing a spirit of giving in your grandchildren today. 

Remember, the legacy you leave is the life you lead. Let’s make it count!

A Special Event by Jewish Family Service

A Jewish Family Service special summer event celebrates the esteemed 1861 Society.

In the summer of 2023, Jewish Family Service of MetroWest NJ (JFS) hosted an extraordinary appreciation event for the esteemed 1861 Society. 

Held at the stunning home of Eve & David Sorkin, the event served as a platform for laughter, learning, and heartfelt stories from the JFS President and other leaders. As they shared their reasons for contributing to this 150-year-old social service agency, the event became a testament to the transformative power of giving.

A Memorable Gathering

The event organized by JFS brought together members of the 1861 Society and showcased the profound impact of their contributions. Against the backdrop of the beautiful Sorkin residence, attendees enjoyed an evening filled with camaraderie, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the vital role JFS plays in the community.

Messages of Support and Inspiration

As influential leaders took the stage, they used their voices to amplify the importance of giving back. Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt stories, they shed light on the remarkable work carried out by JFS and articulated the reasons behind their unwavering support for this respected organization.

Illuminating the Path: The Holiday Fund

In a world where compassion and support can make all the difference, we invite you to join us in creating a meaningful impact through your generous contribution to the Holiday Fund. 

By supporting this vital initiative, not only do you directly benefit JFS, but you also lend a helping hand to ten other agencies that play crucial roles in illuminating the path for those in need within communities across New Jersey.

Together, let’s make a difference in the lives of those in need and foster a stronger, more inclusive society. Join us in this journey by donating at www.holidayfund.org/donate. 

Jewish Family Service of MetroWest NJ: Feeding Hope by Delivering Meals to Those in Need

Jewish Family Service of MetroWest New Jersey makes an impact by delivering meals to thousands.

Amazing news from Jewish Family Service of MetroWest New Jersey! A team of 46 dedicated volunteers have made a significant impact in our community by delivering an incredible 4,729 meals to over 180 clients.

Delivering Meals And Support

Each meal delivered is a message of care, support, and community solidarity. These volunteers are not just delivering meals, they’re delivering hope and comfort to those who need it the most.

This initiative exemplifies the spirit of giving and shows how every act of kindness can create a ripple effect of positive change. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of these volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service.

To each of the 46 volunteers – thank you for your selfless service. Your efforts are truly making a difference!

Donate To Provide Essential Help

Did you know that a gift to the Holiday Fund directly benefits critical organizations like Jewish Family Service of MetroWest New Jersey? Each donation you make has a profound impact, providing essential aid to those in New Jersey who are most in need. Your contribution to the Holiday Fund isn’t merely a monetary gift; it’s a lifeline for those seeking hope. Spread hope by donating online today.

Celebrating SAVE’s Impactful Summer

SAVE is making significant strides in sexual violence prevention through education and community outreach.

This summer has been nothing short of remarkable for the Family Service League’s SAVE program. Their mission to prevent sexual violence has seen them take significant strides in our community, and the Holiday Fund is thrilled to celebrate their work.

A Season of Prevention

From June through August, SAVE embarked on a series of collaborations with 16 distinct local organizations. The objective? To deliver indispensable education on sexual violence prevention.

SAVE is a part of Essex County’s Sexual Assault Team, which consists of Forensic Nurse Examiners, Law Enforcement, and SAVE’s Confidential Sexual Violence Advocates.

The team has two goals: To provide direct services to survivors of sexual violence and their families and to work to prevent sexual violence through education and advocacy.

Over the summer, the trainings offered by SAVE encompassed a broad range of crucial topics. These included healthy dating, consent, and cyberbullying, all of which are vital components of sexual violence prevention. They didn’t stop there. SAVE also zoomed in on specific areas such as Sexual Violence 101, College Campus Sexual Violence, and Elder Abuse Sexual Violence, thereby ensuring a comprehensive approach to the issue.

Community Outreach

In addition to these educational endeavors, SAVE was actively involved in numerous community outreach events. Their participation saw them share valuable information, provide referrals, and distribute educational materials on prevention. This hands-on approach underscores their commitment to making a tangible difference in our community.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Momentum

As we reflect on the summer’s achievements, we’re filled with anticipation for what’s to come. We look forward to supporting SAVE and their community partnerships, contributing to the shared goal of a safer society.

Here’s to more progress, more education, and an even greater positive impact!

You, too, can join us in supporting Family Service League’s initiatives by contributing to the Holiday Fund. Donating is simple at holidayfund.org.

Family Service League: Celebrating Steps Towards Healing Through Counseling

Family Service League is pivotal in combating domestic violence by providing critical counseling sessions amidst high abuse rates.

In a world where the prevalence of domestic and family violence is alarmingly high, it’s organizations like the Family Service League of Essex County that play a pivotal role in fostering change. Let’s take a moment to recognize their recent contribution of successfully provided 871 counseling sessions to domestic violence/family violence clients.

Counseling For Justice

This is more than just a number, it’s a testament to the dedication and compassion of those working tirelessly to support individuals dealing with hardship. Each session represents a step towards healing, empowerment, and change. They symbolize the courage of survivors, the dedication of counselors, and the power of a community that refuses to be silent in the face of injustice.

The Critical Importance of Counseling Services

The importance of these counseling services cannot be overstated. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on average, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. This equates to more than 10 million women and men each year. In the face of such staggering statistics, the work done by organizations like the Family Service League becomes all the more critical.

Support Family Service League And Others

As we celebrate the remarkable achievements of the Family Service League of Essex County, let’s remember that their work is made possible through the generosity of individuals like you.

The Holiday Fund supports the FSL and ten other organizations that provide crucial social services in New Jersey. These services range from counseling sessions for survivors of domestic violence, to food pantries for those facing housing insecurity, addiction, and so much more.

Donate to the Holiday Fund today and become a part of this wave of change. Together, we can make a difference.

Introducing New Community Career & Technical Institute: Empowering Students For Success

New Jersey post-secondary school is dedicated to empowering students for success in fields like allied health, building, automotive, and culinary arts.

One of the Holiday Fund’s esteemed partner agencies, New Community Corporation, is proud to operate New Community Career & Technical Institute (NCCTI), an accredited post-secondary school dedicated to offering comprehensive training in various fields, empowering students for success. At NCCTI, they are committed to bringing relevant and affordable programming to the community, with a focus on allied health, building trades, automotive, and culinary arts.

A Conducive Learning Environment for Educational Excellence

NCCTI strives to provide an educational environment that is conducive to learning. Faculty members are experienced professionals who are passionate about their fields and dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. NCCTIs understand that each student has unique educational goals, and they are eager to help you map out a plan for your career path.

Comprehensive Supportive Services for Student Success

As part of the New Community Corporation (NCC) family, NCCTI is able to offer additional supportive services to our students. These services include family and individual counseling, access to an emergency food pantry, transitional housing information, assistance with accessing a credit union, financial literacy and planning, and specialized training opportunities. NCCTI believes that comprehensive support is essential for student success, both inside and outside the classroom.

Stretching Beyond Limits: Expand Your Capacity and Development

NCCTI believes that education should not only be a means to acquire knowledge but also an opportunity to stretch beyond one’s limits and expand personal capacity and development. The school provides a safe and inclusive environment where students can explore their interests, discover their talents, and unlock their full potential. They encourage our students to embrace challenges, take risks, and push themselves to reach new heights.

Connecting with Prospective Students: NCCTI Holds Open House

Recently, NCCTI held an open house event to connect with prospective students interested in their programs. The event was a tremendous success, allowing potential students to learn more about the courses offered, meet faculty members, and get a glimpse of the vibrant learning community at NCCTI.

New Community Career & Technical Institute is committed to empowering students for success. Whether you aspire to work in the automotive industry, building trades, healthcare, or culinary arts, the institution here to support you in fulfilling your educational goals and achieving a rewarding career.

New Community Corporation: Celebrating Resolved Crisis Intervention Cases

Let’s take a moment and recognize the accomplishments of New Community Corporation. This NJ-based agency recently celebrated the successful resolution of 57 Family Crisis Intervention Unit cases. 👪

Each case closing signifies a family that has overcome crisis and regained stability and hope. It’s also a testament to the dedication, hard work, and compassion of the team at New Community Corporation. Their relentless efforts have ensured that these families received the support they needed during their challenging times.

Join us in supporting organizations like New Community Corporation in their important work. Every case closed brings us one step closer to a community where every family can thrive, even in the face of crisis.

Supporting NCC and the other Holiday Fund agencies is easy – simply give online.

A huge thank you to the team at New Community Corporation – your commitment to serving families in crisis is truly making a difference! 🙏