40 Years of Impact, A Future of Possibility

40 UNITED WAY Hunterdon County

YEARS OF IMPACT

A FUTURE OF POSSIBILITY

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 2&3 4 5&6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Letter From CEO 40 Years Celebration Volunteer Spotlights Holiday Hands Partner Spotlight Program Spotlight: VITA Program Spotlight: United In Play Stop & Shop Upcoming Events Ways To Get Involved

UNITED WAY Hunterdon County

LETTER FROM CEO

As we reflect on the past few weeks, my heart is full of gratitude. In October, we gathered with longtime supporters, community partners, volunteers, and new friends to celebrate a remarkable milestone—United Way of Hunterdon County’s 40th Anniversary.

It was a night to remember. Together, we honored four decades of impact, celebrated the individuals and organizations who have walked alongside us, and looked ahead to the future we’re building together. From our incredible sponsors to the volunteers who helped bring the event to life, we are deeply thankful for the role each of you plays in strengthening our community.

But our work doesn’t end with a celebration. As we enter the season of giving, your involvement matters more than ever. Every volunteer shift, every donation, and every shared story helps fuel programs that support thousands of local families.

There are many ways to get involved this season: Volunteer for our annual Holiday Hands program, helping make the holidays brighter for neighbors in need.

Give a gift to support essential programs year-round.

Spread the word by sharing our mission with friends, family, and colleagues.

This community has accomplished so much in 40 years—and together, we can do even more in the next 40. Thank you for standing with us, for giving your time, talent, and resources, and for believing in a stronger Hunterdon County for all.

Page 1

With gratitude, Jennifer Thompson Chief Executive Officer United Way of Hunterdon County

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF COMMUNITY IMPACT

Our 40th Anniversary Celebration on October 8th was a night filled with joy, gratitude, and community spirit. We were honored to celebrate this milestone alongside so many friends, partners, and supporters who make our work possible. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors for helping us create such a memorable evening—and for standing with us as we look ahead to the next 40 years of impact.

Page 2

BUILDING CONNECTION

This year, United Way of Hunterdon County took our Start School Strong initiative to the next level—transforming it from a back-to-school backpack program into a county-wide movement supporting the whole child and family. What began as providing much needed school supplies expanded into community fairs where families connected directly with local partners offering health screenings, financial resources, and wellness supports. Together, we helped ensure that every child walked into the new school year not just with supplies—but with confidence, connection, and care.

YOUTH IMPACT In 2025, United Way of Hunterdon County made history—training the very first coaches in our county in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Through our United in Play initiative, we’re equipping local coaches with the tools to recognize and respond to mental health needs in young athletes. Thanks to support from DICK’S Sporting Goods, Walden University and QuickChek, this work is setting the standard for what youth sports can and should be: places that build resilience, community, and connection. What started here in Hunterdon is now shaping a national model for how we care for the whole child—mind and body.

Page 3

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

This year, we are thrilled to recognize Audrey Zudick as our Volunteer of the Year. Audrey has been a cornerstone of United Way of Hunterdon County for years, dedicating countless hours to nearly every program we offer—from Holiday Hands and Start School Strong to the VITA free tax preparation program. Her unwavering commitment, kindness, and can-do spirit reflect the very best of what it means to live united.

Audrey shows up where she’s needed most—whether that means organizing donations, greeting families with a smile, or mentoring new volunteers. Her quiet leadership and deep compassion have touched hundreds of lives and strengthened the very fabric of our community. Audrey reminds us that one person’s steady dedication can spark lasting change—and we couldn’t be prouder to honor her this year.

MEET OUR CHANGEMAKERS

In 2025, United Way of Hunterdon County celebrated a new wave of changemakers who are strengthening our community from every angle. From Ed Mahn, our Community Cornerstone Honoree, and Averie Hason, our Community Catalyst, to George Mercado, Legacy of Youth Honoree, and Sweet Valley Farms and the Del Val Jr. Terriers, our Game Changers for Good— each embodies what it means to live united. These new faces and partnerships remind us that when neighbors, businesses, and youth leaders come together, we don’t just build programs— we build community.

Page 4

HELP HUNTERDON COUNTY NEIGHBORS CELEBRATE WITH DIGNITY, JOY, AND HOPE. As the holidays approach, we’re proud to launch Holiday Hands— a cherished United Way of Hunterdon County program that helps thousands of adults, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities celebrate the season. Each year, more than 1,700 local families receive support so our neighbors most in need can feel the true spirit of giving.

BE THE REASON THE SEASON SHINES:

VOLUNTEER

Holiday Hands depends on volunteers of all ages and backgrounds—students, retirees, families, youth groups, and company teams—to make the magic happen. Shifts are available in October, November, and December.

Volunteer roles include: Greeting clients and assisting with applications Processing forms and data entry Scheduling appointments and translating applications Shopping registries and organizing our Holiday Hands store Guiding clients during gift pick-up Decorating the store at the Volunteer Center

Page 5

How to sign up: Scan the QR code or visit our website to choose your shift. Bring a friend, a colleague, or your whole team!

GIVE WHAT MATTERS:

DONATE

Your generosity fuels Holiday Hands from start to finish.

Make a gift: Monetary donations stretch the farthest, ensuring every family’s needs are met.

Grocery Gift cards: We aim to give every family a grocery card to offset the cost of food over the holidays.

In-kind support: New, unwrapped items most requested by families (details on our website).

Every dollar—and every donated item—turns into dignity, joy, and relief for a neighbor right here in Hunterdon County.

AMPLIFY YOUR IMPACT:

SPONSOR

Organizations can make an outsized difference while engaging their teams in meaningful service.

Sponsorship benefits include: Curated volunteer opportunities and preferred time slots Logo placement on our website as a key supporter Acknowledgment on social media, in our weekly enewsletter, and annual impact report Press release recognition Spotlight features highlighting your team’s volunteer contributions Interested? We’ll tailor a sponsorship that aligns with your company’s community goals.

Together, we make the holidays brighter—for everyone.

Page 6

Join us as a volunteer, donor, or sponsor.

Volunteer Contact: Laura Hernandez at laura@uwhunterdon.org Donor/Sponsor Contact: Helen French at helen@uwhunterdon.org

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT We’re proud to highlight Financial Resources Federal Credit Union as this month’s Partner Spotlight! Their generous support helps United Way of Hunterdon County continue empowering local families and strengthening our community. As President & CEO Frank Almeida shared, “We are proud to support the important work and lasting impact of the United Way of Hunterdon County. At a time when resources are increasingly limited and community needs continue to grow, organizations like United Way play a vital role in strengthening the fabric of our communities. We value our partnership and share in their commitment to helping our neighbors build brighter, more resilient lives.”

THE VISION At United Way of Hunterdon County, our vision is simple but powerful: create lasting change by working together. Transformational work happens when organizations, companies, and neighbors align around a shared purpose—helping families live better, healthier, more stable lives. Our partnerships aren’t transactional; they’re transformational. Every collaboration— whether expanding mental-health access, supporting ALICE households, or creating youth opportunity—moves Hunterdon from good to game-changing.

Here’s the bottom line: no one can do it all, but when each of us does a little, we accomplish a lot. Every volunteer hour, sponsorship, and act of generosity compounds into real outcomes.

Ready to partner in change? Contact Helen French at helen@uwhunterdon.org.

Page 7

EMPOWERING OUR COMMUNITY

ONE TAX RETURN AT A TIME Our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is making a powerful impact right here in Hunterdon County!

In 2025, 70 dedicated volunteers helped file 1,695 tax returns, bringing back over $1.8 million in refunds to local residents. Across our regional United Way affiliates, volunteers prepared more than 10,000 tax returns, securing $12.5 million in refunds for hardworking neighbors—many of whom are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households.

These refunds often cover critical expenses like rent, utilities, food, transportation, and child care—making a direct difference in the stability and well-being of local families.

Volunteers are the heart of VITA. Their dedication ensures our neighbors receive every dollar they deserve, while navigating the often complicated tax filing process with dignity and support.

We’re now recruiting volunteers for the 2026 tax season!

Whether you have tax experience or simply a willingness to learn, we’ll provide training and support so you can make a tangible impact.

VITA

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE Page 8

LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP

DESERVES THE CHANCE EVERY CHILD TO PLAY, GROW, & THRIVE For many families in Hunterdon County, the joy of youth sports is out of reach—not because of interest or ability, but because of cost.

United in Play breaks down those financial barriers, making youth sports more accessible and inclusive for ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families. Through partnerships with trusted local leagues, we cover registration fees, equipment costs, and more—ensuring every child has the chance to get in the game.

But we go beyond the field. United in Play also equips coaches with tools to support kids’ mental health needs, creating a positive, inclusive environment where every child can grow —not just as an athlete, but as a whole person.

YOUR GIFT GETS KIDS IN THE GAME It can cost up to $800 to get a child on the field.

For ALICE families, that often means sports are simply not an option.

Your donation changes that.

Every dollar helps cover the costs of participation, gear, and mental health supports —so no child is left on the sidelines.

Page 9

Ways to Give: Donate online: uwhunterdon.org Mail a check to: United Way of Hunterdon County 20 Fulper Road, Flemington, NJ 08822

SHOP FOR GOOD THIS NOVEMBER AT STOP & SHOP We’re excited to share that United Way of Hunterdon County has been selected as a nonprofit partner in the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program for November 2025!

Throughout the entire month, when you purchase a $2.50 reusable Community Bag at the Stop & Shop located at 334 State Route 31 in Flemington, $1 will be donated directly to United Way of Hunterdon County.

This simple act of shopping with purpose helps us continue our mission to support families, strengthen our community, and create lasting change here in Hunterdon County. By choosing a reusable Community Bag, you’re not only helping the environment—you’re also making a meaningful impact right here at home.

Program Dates: November 1–30, 2025 Participating Store: Stop & Shop, 334 State Route 31, Flemington, NJ Your everyday purchases can make a real difference. Pick up a Community Bag during your next grocery run and join us in supporting a stronger, more sustainable community for all.

Page 10

UPCOMING EVENTS Nonprofit CEO Roundtable

November 18th | 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT

Advocacy in Action November 21st | 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT

Coffee & Chat with the CEO  November 25th | 9:00am - 10:00am EDT VITA Volunteer Orientation December 3rd | 10:00am - 12:00pm EDT

VITA Volunteer Orientation

December 3rd | 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

HBA Community Gives Back December 5th | 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT

Alternative Treatment - Medical Cannabis and its Benefits December 9th | 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT

To register visit: uwhunterdon.org/events

Page 11

MAKE SPIRITS BRIGHT WAYS TO GET INVOLVED Advertise With Us Place an ad on our website, newsletter, or social media and showcase your business while supporting community impact.

Donate / Give Monthly Your generosity helps United Way bridge the gaps for ALICE families right here in Hunterdon.

Volunteer Opportunities Give your time and talents to projects that make a real difference in our neighborhoods.

Corporate Sponsorships & Group Projects Engage your company or team in meaningful service opportunities that strengthen community ties.

Giving Tuesday Participate in Giving Tuesday, the global generosity movement. Check our social media or watch for an email about how to get involved

Advocate Spread awareness about ALICE, United in Play, and other initiatives making change across Hunterdon County.

Page 13

THANK YOU

HUNTERDON COUNTY Together, we are strengthening our community through support for ALICE families and programs like United in Play.

This progress relies on you—neighbors, partners, donors, and volunteers.

Your contributions drive real change, with every filled backpack, delivered training, and supported family showcasing the power of collective effort.

SCAN TO GIVE OR GET INVOLVED

STAY CONNECTED

Website: www.uwhunterdon.org Follow us on social media @hunterdonuw

@uwhunterdon

@UWhunterdon

United Way Hunterdon County

United, we create impact. United, we build hope. United, we thrive.

UNITED WAY Hunterdon County