The holiday season is here which means so is the time for giving to those in need. December in Hudson County is jam-packed with opportunities to support local charities and communities. Below, you’ll find a list of volunteering opportunities in Hoboken and Jersey City during the month of December to help you give back this season.
^^ The Hoboken Christmas Exchange last year — get more information about this year’s exchange below
December 1st — 4th Annual JustinTime Foundation Fundraiser {1422 Grand Street, Hoboken}
Gather for a day of friendship and fun with close to 400 guests at the JustinTime Foundation Annual Fundraiser. The day will kick off at 12:00PM at Pilsner Haus Biergarten and will run through 4:00PM. Silent Proceeds from all monies raised will support JustinTime’s mission of assisting families with children cope with the unexpected loss of a parent or guardian. Such support includes scholarships, children’s activities, grief counseling, emergency expenses, and more. Tickets are $90 and will allow event entry, one drink, assorted appetizers and five raffle tickets for the gift auction. Purchase tickets here.
December 1st– 18th — Hudson County CASA Toy Drive {442 Hoboken Avenue, Hoboken}
Join Hudson County CASA Hoboken in brightening the holidays for more than 300 children in the area through its annual toy drive. Gifts can be dropped off at the office at 442 Hoboken Avenue now through December 18th.
December 1st — Christmas Cocktail Party to Benefit New City Kids {720 Monroe Street, #C300, Hoboken}
Join Redeemer Hoboken for a free cocktail party to benefit New City Kids. New City Kids is dedicated to ending the cycle of poverty by setting children on the path to college. Visit the New City Kids website for more information.
December 1st — WM Hope Foundation Masquerade Fundraising Dinner {500 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawkin}
Join the WM Hope Foundation for its 2nd Annual Masquerade Fundraising Dinner. Starting at 7:00PM, this year’s fundraising masquerade dinner aims to raise $10,000 to provide a scholarship fund for 30 orphaned students at Matero Primary School in Lusaka, Zambia, for the 2019 school year. The remaining funds will go towards the 2019 AIDS Walk Zambia and cover the cost of T-shirts, food, free HIV testing for up to 500 people. Tickets are $75. For ticket purchase and more information, click here.
December 1st & 2nd—Pictures with Santa {340 Sinatra Drive & 1422 Grand Street, Hoboken}
Grab the kids and take pictures with Santa, courtesy of Hudson County CASA. Proceeds from photos and adult beverages will benefit children in foster through Hudson County CASA. Photos will be taken at House of Que from 11:00AM-5:00PM on Saturday and at Koko Klub from 11:00AM-5:00PM on Sunday. Visit the website here to learn more about pricing and setting up private photo sessions with Santa.
December 2nd — Pet Photos with Santa {235 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City}
Furry friends need support at this time of year as well. Head to the Liberty Humane Society in Jersey City with your pet to take a photo with Santa. Photo sessions and prints are $20 each and proceeds will benefit the Liberty Humane Society. Photos will start at 12:00PM and will be on a first come, first served basis.
December 2nd, 9th and 16th — Kids Give Sundays in December {700 1st Street, Hoboken}
Combining service opportunities for children with time to relax or getting shopping done is a win-win for parents. For $23 each day, parents can drop off their 4-12-year-old children for an hour and a half to spend time with other service-minded kids, hear a poignant story of giving back and prepare bagged lunches, toiletry kits, and holiday sock gifts for guests of the Hoboken Homeless Shelter. A deliciously prepared Northern Soul meal is included. Times vary for each week. For ticket purchase and more information, click here. This event is hosted by Project H.E.R.O.I.S.M.
December 4th — CASA Information Session {595 Newark Avenue, Jersey City}
The first step in becoming a CASA Volunteer is attending an information session. CASA Volunteers are ordinary people who have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of foster children. CASA is looking for people with a desire to help children with one-on-one, specialized attention. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, attend the information session starting at 6:30PM. For more information, visit CASA’s website here.
December 5th—A Night for Celebrating our Autism Community {14 Bright Street, Jersey City}
KFM Making a Difference, a non-profit organization started by Kerry Magro, is hosting a night to celebrate the autism community in the area. Head to Brightside Tavern for an evening of food, drinks, karaoke, and fun to support the organization’s mission of supporting children with special needs through scholarships and sensory-friendly events. Tickets are $60 and there will be a cash bar. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
December 6th — Chili Cook-Off Planning Team Meeting {501 Garden Street, Hoboken}
Join the TRUE Mentors team as they kick off planning the 10th Annual Chili Cook-Off with a goal of raising $30,000 to support the organization. TRUE Mentors is a one-to-one mentoring program for children aged 7-17 in Hoboken. The meeting will be held at Moran’s Hoboken and will begin at 7:30PM.
December 6th — Holiday Masquerade Sparkling Wines from Around the World {80 Christopher Columbus Drive, Jersey City}
The Rotary Club of Jersey City is proud to host “Holiday Masquerade Sparkling Wines Tasting from Around the World!” All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Foundation of Jersey City. Tickets are $80 and include a sparkling wine tasting experience from 7:00PM-10:00PM, super buffet, and dance party from 10:00PM onward with a cash bar. Cocktail masquerade attire is appreciated. Visit the Facebook Page for more information.
December 7th — PAD PAWS Whiskers in the Warehouse Holiday Fundraiser {350 Warren Street, Jersey City}
Animals are in need during this time of year as well. PAD PAWS Animal Rescue is hosting its Holiday Fundraiser. Join the organization for a night of pawtastic treats, cattails, raffle prizes and shopping in Lulu’s recycled boutique. The event will be held at the newly renovated Modera Lofts and tickets are $30. For more information and to purchase tickets click here.
READ: Holiday Markets in Hoboken + Jersey City This Holiday 2018 Season
December 7th — HFA Holiday Party & Toy Drive {1422 Grand Street, Hoboken}
Join the Hoboken Family Alliance on December 7th from 3:30PM to 6:00PM at Kolo Klub for festivities and fun to be shared by the whole family. Take a picture with Santa, enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, appetizers and nibbles. Attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy or pajamas for HFA’s Annual Toy & Pajama Drive to help spread holiday cheer to families in need. A cash bar will be available as well. For more information, visit the Facebook Event page.
December 7th — Kids Dream Big Foundation 2018 Holiday Party {225 River Street, Hoboken}
The Kids Dream Big Foundation is hosting its 3rd annual holiday party. Kick off the giving season by celebrating at one of Hoboken’s finest venues, the W Hotel, and take in breathtaking views of Manhattan while sipping on perfectly curated holiday cocktails. Party and network with some of New Jersey’s best and brightest from C-level executives, professional athletes, to founders and more. Tickets are $95 and proceeds will raise money for the 4th Annual KDB Holiday Shopping Spree for Kids. Tickets include access to a full open bar, prizes, KDB swag, and photo booth. The event will begin at 8:00PM. For more information and ticket purchase, click here.
December 7th & 8th — Hoboken Grace 4th Annual Christmas Gift Exchange {301 Garden Street, Hoboken}
The fourth annual Hoboken Grace Christmas Gift Exchange is underway and is making the holiday season brighter for hundreds of children. Hoboken Grace has partnered with Hoboken Housing Authority, HOPES, North Hudson Community Action Corps, Hoboken Family Planning, The Jubilee Center TRUE Mentors, In Jesus Name Charities and Hoboken Early 100 to identify families in need. Those looking to assist can either adopt a family and purchase items on their wish list or can sign up to be an “Elf Volunteer” to deliver presents to families. Donor gift drop-off is available on December 7th from 8:00PM-10:00PM and December 8th from 9:00AM-12:00PM. Recipient pick-up will take place on December 8th from 4:00PM-7:00PM. For more information, visit the Hoboken Grace Christmas Exchange website here.
December 8th — New Hope Holiday Care Packages {472 Bergen Avenue, Jersey City}
The New Hope Missionary Baptist Church will be supplying approximately 200 families in the Jersey City area with Holiday Care Packages. The church needs personal supply donations including cotton socks, toothbrushes, granola bars, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, nail clippers, lip balm, tissues, etc. to distribute to families in need. Supplies can be dropped off at the church office any weekday from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Volunteers are also needed to package supplies on December 8th at 12:00PM. For more information, visit the website here.
December 8th — Holiday Toy Drive & Happy Hour {322 2nd Street, Jersey City}
The 8th Annual Jersey City Ties Holiday Toy Drive & Happy Hour will take place on Saturday, December 8th at Lucky 7! Attendees are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy or gift card appropriate for children ages 5-14 years old. Please, no toy guns or nerf guns. All toys and gifts collected will be distributed to members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County. Cash donations are also accepted and will be matched by Jersey City Ties. For more information, visit the Jersey City Ties Facebook Page.
December 10th—Hoboken Community Dinner {221 Jackson Street}
Join neighbors and community members for a Hoboken Community Dinner. The Mile Square can feel like a family and this dinner will bring the community even closer. Assistance is needed for food donations and serving. Click here to sign up for food donations.
December 11th — Hoboken Shelter 15th Annual Winter Auction {92 River Street, Hoboken}
The Hoboken Shelter is a staple for so many in the Mile-Square. Join the team for a night of fundraising, food, and entertainment to support the shelter’s mission of providing basic needs for thousands throughout the year. The 15th Annual Winter Auction will be held at Birch starting at 6:30PM. Tickets are $40 and include drink specials, light appetizers and silent auction/tricky tray prizes. Tickets can be purchased here.
December 11th—CASA Information Session {100 Bloomfield Street}
The first step in becoming a CASA Volunteer is attending an information session. CASA Volunteers are ordinary people who have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of foster children. CASA is looking for people with a desire to help children with one-on-one, specialized attention. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, attend the information session starting at 7:00PM. For more information, visit CASA’s website here.
December 12th — Pinnacle Mortgage Inc. Coat Drive {612 Newark Avenue, Hoboken}
The team at Pinnacle Mortgage Inc. is asking for help in its 2018 Coat Drive. Please bring new or gently used coats, hats, gloves and scarves to 612 Newark Avenue from 3:00PM-8:00PM. Enjoy holiday drinks and snacks when you stop-by.
December 12th—Party with Purpose Cocktail Making Class {72 Hudson Street}
Party with Purpose, a Hoboken 501(c)3 organization that supports local children’s charities, is getting in the holiday spirit with its first cocktail making class. Head to The Winston for an evening of booze, friends and fun while supporting a worthy cause. The event starts at 7:00PM and tickets are $40 and a portion of the proceeds will support Party with Purpose’s mission to work hard, play hard and give hard. Tickets can be purchased here.
December 13th — Teddy Bears with Love {104 Hudson Street, Hoboken}
Join the Fairfield University Northern New Jersey Alumni Chapter leadership team and celebrate the holiday season. Bring a teddy bear or stuffed animal to donate to Fairfield University’s 20th annual Teddy Bears with Love Drive. The event will take place at Cooper Union in Hoboken and will start at 6:00PM. For more information, visit the Facebook Page here.
December 13th— Wintertide: A Celebration of the Season {704 Jefferson Street, Hoboken}
Celebrate the Season of Giving by supporting Family Promise of Hudson County! Wintertide: A Celebration of the Season promises to be a one-of-a kind concert led by American musician and band leader, Jeremy Beck. The inaugural Wintertide will feature an immersive world music experience for all in attendance, including original compositions and new arrangements of your favorite Christmas classics performed by 10 acclaimed musicians. Proceeds from the event will benefit Family Promise of Hudson County, a shelter for families experiencing homelessness. Wintertide will be held on Thursday, December 13th at St. Ann Catholic Church at 8:00 p.m., with a reception following. Tickets can be purchased for $25 here at or by calling (201) 659-1114. For additional information, please visit the Family Promise site here.
December 14th — HCLF’s Annual Gala Dinner {200 Hudson Street, Hoboken}
The Hudson County Latino Foundation is celebrating the holidays with its annual Gala Dinner. Admission tickets will afford a buffet dinner with beer and wine and a donation to the Hudson County Latino Foundation. This event allows the Foundation to continue to serve Hudson County through education, health care, and community development initiatives. Tickets for the Gala can be purchased here.
December 15th — Winter Coat Giveaway {472 Bergen Avenue, Jersey City}
The New Hope Missionary Baptist Church is collecting donations for its 2018 Winter Coat Giveaway. New or gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves, personal care items, and non-perishable snacks can be dropped off at the church office any day until December 15th from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Recipients can pick-up the items during the official giveaway on December 15th at 6:00PM. For more information, visit their Facebook Page here.
December 15th — Holiday Toy Drive {725 State Route 440, Jersey City}
Naughty Intentions Motor Club & Spooky Ryderz Auto Club is working together to collect toy donations for children that are in the hospital that cannot make it home for the holiday. The event will take place at Famous Gyro & Pizza in Jersey City from 12:00PM-6:00PM. Attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped toy.
December 17th — Hoboken Holiday Market {92 River Street, Hoboken}
Hoboken Girl presents its 2nd Annual Hoboken Holiday Market at Birch for an evening filled with festive shopping, drinks, and fun. Featuring local vendors, your $10 will score your entry, one drink, and shopping with more than 20 local businesses. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit the Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corp. Additionally, Hoboken Girl is looking for volunteers to take on 3-hour shifts for the evening. Singing up as a volunteer will also gain free entry and a Hoboken Girl tank or t-shirt. Check out this article for more information.
December 17th — Believe in One 2nd Annual Toy Drive {700 1st Street, Hoboken}
Join Julie Alexandra, Founder/CEO of Believe in One, for a Toy Drive at Northern Soul. The event will begin at 6:30PM and will conclude at 10:00PM. All attendees are asked to bring an unwrapped toy to help brighten the holiday of a child. All toy donations will benefit preschool students in Newark, NJ. For more information, contact Julie Alexandra at 201-320-0840.
See More: All About Dress for Success and Suits for Success Hudson County
Ongoing Opportunities:
St. Mathew’s Trinity Lutheran Church — Stop in to help serve lunch Monday through Thursday from 8:00AM– 12:00PM
TRUEMentors — Join Jersey Cares in Mentoring & Enrichment in Hoboken every Tuesday from 6:00PM-8:00PM. Volunteers are asked to spend time with, mentor and manage children ages 7-17 on a weekly basis.
Hunger Helpers in Hoboken— Join JerseyCare at the Hoboken Shelter every Thursday to serve dinner. Volunteers are asked to dress casually and come excited to serve and engage in conversation with dinner guests. All volunteers must bring one of the following items for donation: garbage bags, coffee, hot/cold cups, paper/plastic plates, toilet paper, napkins, utensils {especially forks} and/or laundry detergent. Volunteers are needed from 11am-3pm daily.
Big Brothers Big Sisters — If you have an interest in fostering an on-going relationship with a local student, Big Brothers Big Sisters has the perfect opportunity. To start, head to their site to fill out an application before the interview process to ensure that you are a good fit. The time commitment is at least 1 year.
Happy Holidays! Which organization will you be volunteering at or giving back to this season? Share with us in the comments below!
Have a new volunteer opportunity or know of one we missed? Let us know at hobokengirlhelps@gmail.com!
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