HUNTERDON UNITED LOCAL IMPACT, LASTING CHANGE
FALL 2026
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME LETTER
1
START SCHOOL STRONG 2026 VITA RECAP
2
HUNTERDON CONNECT
4
HUNTERDON UNITED
5-7
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
3
8
PROGRAM SPOTLIGHTS
9-10
BOARD ANNOUNCEMENT
11
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
12
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
13-14
COMMUNITY RESILIENCY
15
NEXT GEN VOLUNTEERS
16
UPCOMING EVENTS
17
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
18
“TOGETHER, WE ARE BUILDING A STRONGER COMMUNITY—ONE FAMILY, ONE STUDENT, AND ONE OPPORTUNITY AT A TIME.” - Jennifer Thompson, MSW, Chief Executive Officer
LETTER FROM OUR CEO There are moments when the word community can feel almost too familiar—something we say often without stopping to think about what it really means. And then there are moments when you get to see it. This summer, I saw it everywhere. I saw it in the 152 volunteers who gave time to Start School Strong. I saw it in young people working alongside adults, packing backpacks, organizing supplies and welcoming families. I saw it in businesses, donors, schools, community partners and neighbors who stepped forward because they believed that every child in Hunterdon County deserves to walk into school feeling prepared and confident. Together, we distributed school supplies to over 400 families in Hunterdon. Those numbers matter. But what stays with me is what was behind them: people showing up for people. And perhaps most inspiring was seeing the power of our young people. When we give youth meaningful opportunities to serve —not someday, but right now—they remind us that community isn't something we inherit, it is something each generation has to choose to build. That idea is increasingly important as we look toward the months ahead. At United Way of Hunterdon County, we are leaning deeply into community resiliency—our collective ability not simply to respond when something goes wrong, but to build the relationships, resources and connections that help our neighbors withstand whatever comes next. Because there is another side to the story we need to tell. Hunterdon County is often described as an affluent community. And by many traditional measures, it is. But averages can hide the experiences of thousands of our neighbors. The newest United For ALICE data tells us that 27% of Hunterdon County households—more than one in four families —are living below the ALICE Threshold.
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ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These are households earning above the Federal Poverty Level, but still not enough to consistently afford the basics where they live: housing, food, transportation, child care, health care and technology. In other words, these are our neighbors, our friends, us. At the same time that the need is growing, the resources available to meet that need are becoming less certain. We have already experienced the loss of funding that supported important work in our community, while we continue to wait for decisions about critical federal resources. Those funds matter. They affect our ability—and the ability of our partners—to connect people to services, expand access to care and respond quickly when families find themselves in crisis. But waiting cannot mean standing still. If this summer taught us anything, it is that Hunterdon County does not have to wait for someone else to strengthen our community. We can do it together. Government funding matters. Philanthropy matters. Businesses and nonprofit partners matter. But so does the volunteer who gives an afternoon. The teenager who packs a backpack. The neighbor who checks on an older resident. The employer who organizes a service day. The donor who decides that strengthening Hunterdon County is worth investing in. That is community resiliency. It is not simply how we respond to a crisis. It is what we build before the crisis comes. As we move into fall and look toward the year ahead, I believe our greatest resource is not a single program, grant or organization. It is one another. The need in Hunterdon County is real. And our response must grow with it. So I invite you to lean in with us. Volunteer. Give. Connect someone to a resource. Bring your children and grandchildren into service. Learn about ALICE. Look beyond the assumptions we sometimes make about need in our county. And help us build a Hunterdon where asking for help is met not with judgment, but with a community ready to respond. This summer, hundreds of people showed us what is possible when Hunterdon comes together. Now, imagine what we can build if we keep showing up for one another.
START SCHOOL STRONG: A COMMUNITY-WIDE IMPACT As students across Hunterdon County headed back to the classroom, hundreds began the school year prepared, supported, and ready to learn thanks to the incredible generosity of our community. Start School Strong is about so much more than backpacks. What began as an effort to provide students with essential school supplies has grown into a community-wide initiative connecting local families with resources that can make a difference throughout the entire year. This Year, Together, We: Distributed 803 backpacks and school supply kits to local students Completed 258 school meal applications, helping families access critical meal assistance Partnered with 35 community organizations to provide resources, education, healthcare, and support Engaged 152 volunteers who generously contributed 566 hours of their time Created an estimated $389,900 in direct value and household savings for Hunterdon County families The impact extended far beyond school supplies. Families were connected with healthcare and insurance resources, food assistance and healthy eating programs, financial education, bike safety information, preventive health screenings, and other services designed to support their well-being. A family may have arrived looking for a backpack, but they left knowing more about the resources available to help them thrive. To everyone who volunteered, donated, partnered, sponsored, shared resources, or otherwise helped make Start School Strong possible: thank you.
Thank you to our sponsors:
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
Number of backpacks distributed
School Meal Applications Completed
Community Partners
Number of Volunteer Hours
Total Number of Volunteers
803 258 35 566 152
$389,900 Direct Value and Household Savings
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VITA 2026 IMPACT RECAP A Record-Breaking Tax Season for Hunterdon County United Way of Hunterdon County's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program delivered another year of remarkable impact for local families. During the 2026 tax season, dedicated IRS-certified volunteers helped complete nearly 2,000 tax appointments, returning more than $2.5 million to Hunterdon County residents through refunds and tax credits. For many households, these refunds represent critical resources used for housing, transportation, healthcare, childcare, debt reduction, and savings. The success of VITA would not be possible without the volunteers, community partners, and supporters who make this free service available each year. Together, we are helping hardworking families keep more of what they earn and build greater financial stability.
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
REAL PEOPLE. REAL CONVERSATIONS.
A STRONGER HUNTERDON. 136
7,000+
CALLS A DAY
UNIQUE WEBSITE VISITS EACH MONTH
125
619
UNIQUE TEXT SESSIONS EACH MONTH
NEW UNIQUE VISITORS LAST MONTH
Every call, text, and website visit represents a Hunterdon County neighbor looking for a way forward. United Way of Hunterdon County is here to listen, answer questions, and connect people with the resources and programs that fit their needs. On an average day, our team and volunteers answer 136 calls, spending nearly 10 minutes on each conversation. Each month, we have 125 unique text conversations, while more than 7,000 visitors turn to our website for information and support. Together, these efforts represent nearly 484 hours of human connection each month—time spent helping people feel heard and find their next step. That impact grows when our community gets involved. Volunteers help us reach more neighbors, donors make this work possible, and community partners strengthen the network of support available across Hunterdon County. Whether you can give your time, make a gift, or share United Way’s resources with someone who may need them, you can help build a stronger Hunterdon where no one has to navigate challenges alone.
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
HUNTERDON UNITED A Celebration of Impact
THURSDAY OCTOBER 15
ALBA VINEYARD 269 COUNTY RD 627 MILFORD, NJ 08848
6 - 9 P.M.
Gather with us for an evening of purpose, community, and local flavor. On October 15, 2026, the United Way of Hunterdon County invites you to our signature event, Hunterdon United: A Celebration of Impact. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Alba Vineyard, this evening is more than just a gala—it is a tribute to the collective strength of our community and the lives we are transforming together.
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
AWARDS
Join us as we honor the individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and collaboration make Hunterdon County stronger.
Jerri May-Grimes
Mark Masessa
Jill Kearney
Community Catalyst
Legacy of Youth
Community Visionary
Michael Wellons
John Rice
William Hamilton
Volunteer of the Year
Volunteer of the Year
Volunteer of the Year
Cultivating Community
Together, these honorees represent the very best of Hunterdon County, uplifting others, fostering connections, and creating meaningful change. Your support helps ensure this impact continues for generations to come.
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
INVESTING IN DREAMS: MEET OUR 2026 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT, STEPHANIE CACERES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT SPOTLIGHT At United Way of Hunterdon County, we believe education can be a powerful pathway to opportunity, stability, and a brighter future. This year, we are proud to recognize Stephanie Caceres as our 2026 United Way of Hunterdon County Scholarship recipient. Stephanie is a devoted working mother of three who is pursuing her dream of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse through Warren County VoTech. Like many adult learners, the cost of returning to school presented a significant challenge and made achieving her goals feel out of reach. "This scholarship opportunity pushed me to apply," Stephanie shared. "Having this scholarship will help me focus on my studies. I am looking for a stable career." Stephanie's story is one of determination, resilience, and a commitment to creating new opportunities for herself and her family. Her connection to United Way extends beyond this scholarship. She has participated in our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Financial Wellness webinars, utilizing available resources to strengthen her family's financial future while continuing her education. One of the most meaningful moments in Stephanie's journey came just before she left home to meet our team at the Volunteer Center. Her 8-year-old daughter asked if she needed a folder to keep her study materials organized. It was a simple gesture, but a powerful reminder that children learn by watching the people they admire most. Through her hard work and perseverance, Stephanie is showing her children that goals are worth pursuing, challenges can be overcome, and education can open doors to new possibilities. We are honored to support Stephanie as she works toward her nursing career and excited to see the impact she will make in our community. Her journey reflects the very heart of United Way's mission: empowering individuals and families with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive. Congratulations, Stephanie—we are cheering you on every step of the way.
UNITED WAY
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Hunterdon County
CURRENT DONATION NEEDS: Mac & Cheese Cups Canned Soup (Pull-Tab) Ramen Noodles Microwavable Meals
DROP OFF ANYTIME AT: United Way Volunteer Center 20 Fulper Road Flemington, NJ 08822
PANTRIES WITH PURPOSE More Than Food—A Pathway to Stability Every child deserves access to nutritious food and the support they need to thrive. Through Pantries with Purpose, United Way of Hunterdon County is bringing food assistance into schools, helping meet students’ immediate needs while supporting greater stability for their families. This school-based program focuses on kids, providing access to nutritious food and connecting families with additional resources that support financial security, health, and overall well-being. With dignity, choice, and community connection at its heart, Pantries with Purpose helps students and their families feel supported—at school and beyond. Community support makes this work possible. Donations, volunteers, and partnerships help keep school-based pantries ready to serve local children and their families.
UNITED WAY
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Hunterdon County
HOLIDAY HANDS A PLACE FOR JOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
The holidays are a time for sharing, celebrating, and making memories. For families facing a tight budget, they can also bring extra worry. Holiday Hands brings our Hunterdon County community together to help make the season brighter. Families who are approved for the program are invited to visit the Holiday Hands Gift Shop at United Way of Hunterdon County’s Volunteer Center. At their scheduled appointment, they can choose gifts for their children and a household item for each adult. We want every family to feel welcomed and have the joy of choosing something that feels right for them.
Volunteer Opportunities Local donors, businesses, schools, and community groups help fill the Gift Shop with gifts and household essentials. Whether you donate an item, organize a gift drive, or become a sponsor, your support helps families celebrate the season.
Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers bring Holiday Hands to life. They help families with applications, sort donations, prepare the Gift Shop, and offer a warm welcome during family visits. There are opportunities to lend a hand throughout October, November, and December. There’s a place for you in Holiday Hands. Every gift, hour, and act of kindness helps bring a little more joy to a Hunterdon County family this season.
LEARN MORE UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
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BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
WELCOME OUR NEWEST BOARD MEMBERS United Way of Hunterdon County is proud to welcome several new members to our Board of Directors. Each brings unique professional expertise, community knowledge, and a shared commitment to improving lives across Hunterdon County. Their leadership will help guide our mission and strengthen our efforts in education, financial stability, health, and community resilience.
Todd Spidare Todd Spidare is a 15-year resident of Hunterdon County. After more than 25 years in sales and marketing in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries, he is now a local business owner and entrepreneur. Having supported United Way financially for many years, Todd is excited to have the opportunity to contribute his time, experience, and perspective as a member of the Board of Trustees. He looks forward to helping broaden United Way’s impact by connecting available resources with the individuals and families who can benefit from them. In his spare time, you are just as likely to find Todd slowing down on a hiking trail and enjoying the outdoors as you are to find him on a race track doing anything but slowing down.
Tori Benjamin Tori is a Client Advisor with CW Advisors with more than two decades of experience in wealth management. She serves on the Leadership Team and Advisor Innovations & Standards Committee, where she helps advance the firm's strategic initiatives and commitment to advisory excellence. She is passionate about empowering others through financial education and community service. She also volunteers with Savvy Ladies, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing women with access to free financial guidance and resources.
Nancee Washington Levin A longtime volunteer and passionate community advocate, Nancee brings a deep commitment to strengthening Hunterdon County through connection, collaboration, and service. Inspired by the impact United Way creates for local individuals and families, she is eager to help support initiatives that unite people, partnerships, and purpose to create lasting change.
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William Hamilton
John Rice
Michael Wellons
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Four United Way of Hunterdon County Volunteers Named Finalists for Governor’s Volunteerism Award
TAKE ACTION LIVE UNITED United Way of Hunterdon County is proud to celebrate four dedicated volunteers who have been named finalists for the New Jersey State Governor’s Volunteerism Award. Michael C. Wellons, John L. Rice, William Hamilton, and Audrey Zudick were selected from hundreds of candidates across New Jersey for their outstanding commitment to public service and the meaningful impact they have made in our community. The Governor’s Volunteerism Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional vision, dedication, and tenacity while inspiring others through service. Being named a finalist is a testament to the time, energy, and heart these four volunteers have given to making Hunterdon County a stronger community. At United Way of Hunterdon County, volunteers are at the heart of so much of what we do. Michael, John, William, and Audrey exemplify the spirit of service that helps bring people together, strengthen our community, and create lasting change.
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We are grateful for their continued ded their contributions recognized at the s congratulating Michael, John, William, a deserved honor!
Audrey Zudick We are grateful for their continued dedication and proud to see their contributions recognized at the state level. Please join us in congratulating Michael, John, William, and Audrey on this welldeserved honor!
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
CONNECTING HUNTERDON COUNTY TO INFORMATION, OPPORTUNITY AND ONE ANOTHER Partner Spotlight
At United Way of Hunterdon County, we believe strong communities are built through connection —connection to essential services, reliable information, meaningful opportunities and neighbors who are ready to help. That shared belief makes Brightspeed a natural and valued community partner. Brightspeed is an internet provider working to expand reliable connectivity in rural and suburban communities, including Hunterdon County. Its mission is grounded in the belief that where someone lives should not limit their access to the internet—or the opportunities that come with it. By investing in infrastructure and supporting community-centered initiatives, Brightspeed is helping more people connect to the resources they need to learn, work, grow and thrive. That commitment is reflected locally through Brightspeed’s support of United Way of Hunterdon County and its role as the presenting partner of Hunterdon Connect, our new hyperlocal community resource database.
Making Local Help Easier to Find Hunterdon County is home to an extraordinary network of nonprofit organizations, public agencies, community groups, schools and service providers. Yet finding the right resource can still be difficult— especially for someone facing an urgent need or navigating a challenge for the first time. Information may be scattered across websites, flyers and social media pages. Programs change, eligibility requirements can be confusing, and residents may not know where to begin. Hunterdon Connect was created to make that process easier. The online platform brings trusted information about local services, programs and opportunities together in one accessible place. Residents can use Hunterdon Connect to explore resources related to food, housing, health, mental health, financial stability, youth and family services, older adult support, transportation, volunteer opportunities and more. For nonprofit organizations and service providers, the platform also offers a way to increase visibility, share current information and strengthen connections across the county. By making it easier for organizations to find one another, Hunterdon Connect can encourage referrals, reduce duplication and create new opportunities for collaboration. With Brightspeed’s support, United Way can continue building the platform, engaging local organizations and helping residents discover the support available close to home. “When local nonprofits succeed, entire communities benefit,” said Sabrina Anderson, Local Marketing Manager, at Brightspeed. “That’s why Brightspeed is proud to support the United Way of Hunterdon County and the important work they’re doing to make a lasting difference in Hunterdon.”
UNITED WAY
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Hunterdon County
Digital Connection Is Community Connection Reliable internet access is about far more than convenience. It can connect a student to an educational opportunity, help a job seeker submit an application, allow an older adult to access telehealth services or give a family the information it needs during a difficult moment. For a rural county like Hunterdon, digital connectivity is an increasingly important part of community resilience. Brightspeed’s work to strengthen internet access and its investment in Hunterdon Connect address two sides of the same challenge: ensuring people can get online and helping them find meaningful, trustworthy information once they are there. This partnership also reflects an important truth about lasting community impact: no single organization can do it alone. Progress happens when businesses, nonprofits, public agencies and residents bring their strengths together around a shared purpose.
When local nonprofits succeed, entire communities benefit. — Sabrina Anderson, Local Marketing Manager, Brightspeed
Brightspeed brings expertise in connectivity and a commitment to the communities it serves. United Way brings trusted relationships, local knowledge and a network of partners working every day to support Hunterdon County residents. Together, we are helping create a community where resources and opportunities are easier to reach. We are grateful to Brightspeed for believing in the vision behind Hunterdon Connect and for investing in a more connected Hunterdon County. Visit HunterdonConnect.org to explore local resources, discover opportunities or add your organization to the growing network.
Hunterdon Connect: Resources. Opportunities. Community. All connected. Powered by Brightspeed. About Brightspeed Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C. and with assets and associated operations in 20 states, Brightspeed provides broadband and telecommunications services through a network platform capable of serving more than 7.3 million homes and businesses. Our 4,000 employees are committed to building a future where more communities benefit from a more connected life, deploying a state-of-the-art fiber network and a customer experience that makes being connected as simple as it should be. For more information, please visit www.brightspeed.com
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Hunterdon County
BUILD COMMUNITY RESILIENCY: VOLUNTEER Stronger connections. Local action. A more resilient Hunterdon County.
A resilient community starts with neighbors who show up for one another. When we give our time and talents, we build connections, strengthen local support networks and help our community meet challenges together. Not sure where to start? Scan the code to discover where your interests and talents might be best suited and connect with a meaningful volunteer opportunity. Does your organization have volunteer opportunities you’d like listed? Connect with us and discover how you can have them listed as well.
find your fit Ready to take the next step? Explore Volunteer Hunterdon and make volunteering part of your story.
SCAN TO FIND YOUR VOLUNTEER FIT
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
NEXT GENERATION OF VOLUNTEERS small hearts. big hands. lasting impact. Meet the next generation of volunteers helping build a stronger Hunterdon County. This season, young volunteers showed what it means to care for their community. By sharing their time, energy and kindness, these kids reminded us that you don’t have to be a grown-up to make a difference. To every young volunteer who participated this season: thank you for showing up, pitching in and bringing your kindness to our community.
Ava & Sienna Saykay Young volunteers Ava and Sienna brought big hearts and helping hands to United Way’s first Start School Strong event in Clinton! Alongside their mom, Melissa, the girls welcomed families, jumped in wherever help was needed, and helped children get ready to begin the school year feeling confident and supported. Their kindness and enthusiasm showed how volunteers of every age can make a meaningful difference. For Ava and Sienna, the experience was just as special—they went home eager to tell their dad and grandma about their day helping neighbors. Thank you, Ava and Sienna, for sharing your time, energy, and care with our community!
Alexandria Township Students
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An unexpected day off from school became a day of giving back for a group of eighth graders from Alexandria Township! These young volunteers spent their break serving their community with United Way, jumping in with helping hands and a willingness to make a difference. Along the way, they showed that some of the most meaningful lessons happen outside the classroom—by showing up, supporting neighbors, and discovering the impact we can have together. Thank you to these young community leaders for turning a day off into a day ON for Hunterdon!
UPCOMING EVENTS Hunterdon United: A Celebration of Impact Thursday, October 15 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
VITA Volunteer Open Houses
Wednesday, October 7 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 14 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 19 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Coffee & Chat with our CEO Thursday, October 22 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 19 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. Cooking Together With Sue Tuesday, October 20 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. Holiday Hands Application Assistance October 26 and 27 Morning, afternoon and night time appointments available Shop Smart, Stay Safe: Protect Your Money This Holiday Season Wednesday, November 4 12:00 p.m.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Saturday, November 14 9:00 – 3:00 p.m. Mission Control Board Leadership Training Saturday, January 9 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
To register visit: uwhunterdon.org/events
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
WAYS TO GET
INVOLVED
FIND YOUR FIT SCAN TO DOWNLOAD OUR VOLUNTEER FIT APP
Volunteer Opportunities
Give your time and talents to projects that make a real difference in our neighborhoods.
Donate / Give Monthly Your generosity helps United Way bridge the gaps for ALICE families right here in Hunterdon.
Corporate Sponsorships & Group Projects Engage your company or team in meaningful service opportunities that strengthen community ties.
Advocate
Spread awareness about ALICE, United in Play, and other initiatives making change across Hunterdon County.
Advertise With Us
Place an ad on our website, newsletter, or social media and showcase your business while supporting community impact.
Get Involved: Attend a Webinar or Class Attend a webinar or class on topics such as financial wellness, mental health, and local resources, and gain practical information you can use in everyday life.
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UNITED WAY Hunterdon County
THANK YOU
HUNTERDON COUNTY Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient community. From supporting ALICE families to launching innovative programs like United in Play, none of this would be possible without YOU—our neighbors, partners, donors, and volunteers. Your time, generosity, and advocacy fuel real change. Every backpack filled, every training delivered, every family supported is a testament to what happens when a community comes together.
STAY CONNECTED Website: www.uwhunterdon.org Follow us on social media:
@hunterdonuw
@uwhunterdon
@UWhunterdon
United Way Hunterdon County
SCAN TO GIVE OR GET INVOLVED
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller
United, we create impact. United, we build hope. United, we thrive.
UNITED WAY Hunterdon County