Getting to
know you...
Carolyne Rao was tired of seeing the same old doom and gloom on the news. Armed with her camera and a big heart, Carolyne began “The Feel Good Project of Bergen County.” Here, we will display some of her work, and get a peek into the hearts and souls of our neighbors who share their stories of accomplishments, joy and all things positive.
“I
have been volunteering since I was 17 years old. Fourteen years ago I had the opportunity to start this non-profit organization so that I could open up more doors for individuals with disabilities and provide them opportunities where they can really flourish and shine, learn and grow. That’s what Camp Acorn is all about. Camp Acorn is a social program for children and adults with disabilities. The impact that I have and the ability that I have to help these individuals live life to its fullest has really made a difference in my life.”
Cathy Carisi, Ed. S.
Executive Director and Founder of Camp Acorn School Psychologist Lodi resident for more than 40 years
“O
ne of the things I was the most proud of being a part of was (when) ... a man had a heart attack at the Lodi Boys and Girls Club. I was the first officer there… I came running in, saw him, and I’ve been an EMT for a while, so I started initiating CPR and the ambulance came. We ended up shocking him. And, between... me, the Lodi police and the Lodi Ambulance Corps, we were able to save his life. I still get choked up thinking about it. A year later… the guy who had the heart attack gave me a little gift. He gave me a desk clock and on the clock it said ‘Thank you for the gift of time.’”
James Lapp
Sergeant at the Bergen County Sheriff’s Department Lodi resident for 31 years Continued on pg. 50
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July/August 2015