As part of its commitment to sustainability and community resiliency, New Jersey Resources hosted its annual “NJR You Days” to support local nonprofit organizations at historic Fort Hancock on Sandy Hook.
Over the course of two days this summer, more than 200 employees from across NJR participated in activities such as painting, landscaping, and refurbishing the facilities at the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium and Sandy Hook Childcare Center.
“New Jersey Resources has long shared a deep connection with the communities we serve – it is a part of the identity and culture of our company,” said Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources. “NJR You Days is an important part of that commitment. It’s an opportunity for us to give back and make a meaningful difference where it is needed most. The work our employees accomplished this year at the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium and the Sandy Hook Childcare Center will benefit these organizations and have a lasting impact on our communities for years to come,” Westhoven added.
During NJR You Days, employees dedicated approximately 1,000 hours of service to transform the facilities at both locations. At the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium building, they primed and painted over 300 spindles, porch decks, trim, conference rooms, classrooms, offices, and hallways. Additionally, they redid all landscaping, restored driveways, and built new wader racks.
At the Sandy Hook Childcare Center, employees primed and painted the entire exterior of the building along with sheds and flower boxes. They also restored driveways, created a new nature corner, re-sanded playgrounds, and fabricated a picnic table around a tree.
Both nonprofits operate on tight budgets; thus, the extensive work completed by NJR helped them achieve long-term projects that might otherwise have been unattainable. This allows these organizations to focus on their core missions: promoting wise use of New Jersey’s coastal resources and providing safe environments for children.
NJR You Days was established by NJR to unite employees with area nonprofit groups to foster positive change within its service territory. Since 2009, employees have contributed approximately 14,000 hours of service to assist 14 nonprofit groups through this annual program.
