The Volunteer Network's "HATS OFF" Event
Flies High in the Community!!

Members of the Apprentice Choir of the Newark Boys Chorus School perform at the Volunteer Network's "Hats Off" event	Leann Martin from All Stars Project performs

Hundreds of volunteers from all over Essex County were honored in a countywide event that was recently held at Newark Academy in Livingston. The Volunteer Network, a division of NCJW Essex County Section, sponsored a volunteer recognition reception that embraced local non-profit agencies and their volunteers throughout Essex County.

Community service agencies, hospitals, libraries and schools were represented by some of their most special volunteers of this past year, who have shared their time and talents to make a difference in their community. Each volunteer received a certificate and gift in honor of their service to the Essex County area. Michele Howe of the Newark Star Ledger was recognized for her commitment to volunteerism through the media, and Prudential Financial was honored as the recipient of the NCJW Crystal Award for their contribution to community service. Marlene J. Waldock, host of New Jersey Business on News 12 New Jersey and owner of 1st Impressions Communications in Verona, charmed the audience as the Master of Ceremonies. Several local volunteer agencies provided the entertainment including Leann Martin from All-Stars Project of Newark, the Newark Boys Chorus School, Michael Sanflippo, Director, and Caroline Paraody, Accompanist and Vocal Coach, and Paige Sandusky from the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Performing Arts in Manhattan. The vocal group, The Mood Swings, who perform weekly in Maplewood, also participated. Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. of the Office of the County Executive presented a certificate declaring a proclamation making April 23 to 29, 2006 Volunteer Week in Essex County. Also on hand were students from Newark Academy who volunteered their time to decorate, serve food, and greet guests.

The Volunteer Network, one of the many nonsectarian services sponsored by NCJW Essex County Section, helps to build a strong community by connecting teens and adults with volunteer opportunities at more than 150 nonprofit agencies in and around Essex County.

Master of Ceremonies, Marlene Waldock (center) with Event Chairs (l to r) Barbara Murray and Avery Dykman	(l to r) Barbara Murray, Event Co-Chair, with The Salvation Army Representative and Roberta Schmidt, NCJW Director of Community Services
Prudential Financial Community Volunteer Committee
Representatives of The Newark Museum
The Juvenile Conference Committee
The Jewish Family Service of MetroWest