It is time to spring forward into helping the community. The most popular time of the year for walks, runs, and outdoor fundraisers have finally arrived, and Hudson County is ready to give back. We’ve rounded up a variety of volunteer and community events this Spring in Hoboken and Jersey City. Read on for more and how to get involved with these opportunities.
April 9th – Best Buddies Friendship Walk — North Jersey | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
Everyone can join in for the leading walk in the country supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Best Buddies programs support the growth of meaningful relationships, job placement, communication skills, and independent living for people with IDD. This walk will raise funds to benefit these programs. Learn more about this opportunity here.
April 23 – NJ Dept of Environmental Protection 50+2 Anniversary + Earth Day Celebration | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
Residents are invited to join the NJ Department of Environmental Protection this Earth Day. The event will honor the ‘birthday’ of the DEP, which was founded 52 years ago. The event is free, open to the public, and has fun for the whole family. Learn more about this opportunity here.
April 23 – Annual Celebrate Mother Earth Festival | Historic Harismus Cemetery, 435 Newark Avenue, Jersey City
Directly following Earth Day, the annual festival to celebrate Mother Earth is set to take place. Attendees of all ages can learn more about the 4-H Urban Farm Club, Jersey City Gardening Groups, enjoy live music, play with farm animals, and more. All funds raised will benefit the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery. Learn more about this opportunity here.
April 30 – Walk MS: Jersey City | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
The mission of this walk is to get a step closer to a cure for Multiple Sclerosis (MS). All are welcome at the walk, which has paths that are stroller and mobile device-friendly. There are opportunities to walk, lead a team, and volunteer. Learn more about this opportunity here.
May 7th – Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
The Walk to Fight Alzheimer’s is the largest fundraising event for Alzheimer’s New Jersey. This year Hudson County’s walk will occur on May 7th at 8:30AM. Opportunities to lead a team, participate, and volunteer are all available. Learn more about this opportunity here.
May 19th – CASA Celebrates 20! | 502 Washington Boulevard, Jersey City
Neighbors are invited to celebrate a strong pillar in the community. 2022 rings in the 20th year that CASA has served foster children in the Hudson County area. Guests are invited to come to celebrate this milestone on May 19th from 7PM-11PM. Learn more about this opportunity here.
June 3rd – St. Joseph’s School for the Blind Walk-a-Thon | 761 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
St. Joseph’s School for the Blind has been offering educational services for the visually impaired throughout New Jersey since 1891. The school’s services allow for a life full of opportunity. This year marks the 14th annual Walk-a-Thon, which is set to take place on June 3rd. More details to come. Learn more about this opportunity here.
June 7th – A Taste of Hoboken | Maxwell Park Place, Hoboken
After a 20-year run, the community loved Taste of Hoboken event was put on hold due to the pandemic. Now, it is back, and plans to be better than ever. In support of the Hoboken Community Center, the event will include tastings from Hoboken’s top restaurants, wine and spirit samplings, live music, a silent auction, and more. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased through Eventbrite. Learn more about this opportunity here.
June 12 – Liberty State Park Take Steps | 1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City
Neighbors are invited to take part in the nation’s largest fundraiser for the Crohn’s + Colitis Foundation by joining this walk. Participants will literally “take steps” towards a cure to these conditions that affect millions. This walk is an opportunity to bring the whole community together. Opportunities to participate, lead a team, or volunteer are available. Learn more here.
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Ongoing Opportunities
SoulPhamm Advisory Board | Virtual Opportunity
SoulPhamm, a new non-profit in the Jersey City area, is looking for a new member to join its inaugural Junior Board. The organization has a mission of making a positive difference in the lives of young people by providing unique artistic and athletic experiences and performances and assisting them in achieving the highest standards of professionalism through the development of discipline, skill, confidence, cooperation, leadership, responsibility, and character. Meetings are held once a month on a Monday from 6PM-7PM. Learn more about this opportunity here.
Food + Supply Donations
Computers 4 People | 51 Newark Street, Hoboken
As digital products continue to take over, what is known as the “digital divide” gets wider. The ‘digital divide’ is a term used to describe the lack of access to technology such as computers, tablets, smartphones, etc. due to decreased access to resources needed to obtain these products. Computers 4 People, started by teenager Dylan Zajac, is dedicated to collecting and refurbishing technology to distribute to individuals and groups in need. Computers 4 People will accept items such as old desktop computers, laptops, hard drives, tablets, keyboards, monitors, and more. The organization also accepts monetary donations. Additionally, if volunteers have experience in refurbishing computers or can store items, help in those areas is needed. Learn more here.
Dress for Success Hudson County | 591 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
Give confidence: this is the motto Dress for Success lives by. Dress for Success is a non-profit organization providing solutions to break the cycle of poverty for women. One of many ways the organization fulfills its mission is by making new and gently used professional attire available by collecting these items from generous donors. Items needed include professional suits and dresses, blouses, work-appropriate footwear, new/unused undergarments, jewelry, and handbags (briefcases, portfolios, etc.). Please keep in mind that many of the women benefitting from the donations often head straight to a job interview, so clothing must be dry-cleaned and ready to wear immediately. Clothes should not be more than five years old. To learn more about how to make a clothing or monetary donation, click here.
Hoboken Food Pantry | 1301 Washington Street, Hoboken
Nearly 25% of the Hoboken community relies on the help of the Hoboken Food Pantry, which is a part of the Hoboken Community Center. Its pantry is only stocked and distributed through the support of the community. The Food Pantry needs non-perishable food and personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, instant oatmeal, shelf-stable milk, deodorant, shampoo, canned pasta, cereal, and peanut butter, to name a few. To schedule a donation drop-off, bring items to the lobby of 1301 Washington Street. Contactless donations can be made through The Food Pantry’s Amazon Wish List. Items ordered on The Wish List will be sent directly to The Food Pantry. Additionally, The Food Pantry can now host in-person volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help pack, label, and distribute bags of food. Each session can host up to 13 volunteers in order to comply with CDC guidelines, and anyone ages 13 and up can help. Volunteers are asked to sign up before coming here. Learn more here.
Hoboken Shelter | 301 Bloomfield Street, Hoboken
The Hoboken Shelter hosts 50 guests nightly and serves more than 1,000 meals throughout the week. As a full-service community partner, the Hoboken Shelter is a necessary resource within the neighborhood. The Shelter is always in need of donations and support to help keep its doors open and welcome its guests. To support, take a look at the list of 19 ways to support The Shelter during COVID-19 here. This list is inclusive of tasks like donating some of the most needed items like toiletries, coffee, sugar, milk, hand sanitizer, cleaning supplies, and paper products. The Shelter does have opportunities to host volunteers in-person from 11:00AM-2:00PM and 6:00PM-7:00PM. Please call before arriving as The Shelter can only host 1-2 in-person volunteers at a time due to social distancing guidelines. Learn more here.
Westside Community Fridge | Delaware Avenue, Jersey City
The Westside Community Fridge in Jersey City provides fresh food to anyone in need 24/7. Volunteers are needed to donate food and monetary resources. Items such as fresh fruit, vegetables, yogurt, milk, non-perishables, and more are needed to support the community. Learn more here.
Recycling + Sustainability
Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse | Uptown Waterfront, Hoboken
The Hoboken Waterfront is home to some of the most breathtaking views of NYC as well as a playground for countless activities. The Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse wants residents to enjoy what the Hudson River has to offer while taking care of the space as well. HCCB encourages residents to pick up trash in the area as they see it, but will also start to host community pick-up times as weather permits. Volunteers are needed to support the clean-up efforts and can be trained to lead volunteer trips. Learn more here.
Round 2 Resources | Hoboken
Round 2 Resources allows items throughout our community to have a second chance and avoid landfills. The non-profit organization has made a commitment to protect the environment by gathering useful resources throughout the community and re-distributing these items to those who have a need for them. Its mission is not tied to just one cause — as the tagline suggests, “we are not fighting to champion one cause, we are fighting for the world.” To make a donation or volunteer, contact leadership at round2resources@gmail.com.
LGBTQ + Family
Hudson Pride Center | 176 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City
Hudson Pride Center creates safe spaces to celebrate and enjoy life for members of the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. It advocates for the physical, mental, and social well-being of all people. Volunteers are needed to support these efforts alongside full-time staff members. Opportunities include office assistant volunteer, tutor specialist, special event support facilities manager, and Pride Festival volunteers. To learn more about Hudson Pride Center and what each volunteer opportunity entails, click here.
Medical Assistance
Community Emergency Response Team | 715 Summit Avenue, Jersey City
Because a disaster can strike at any time, the Community Emergency Response Team in Jersey City wants to be sure that all members of the community are safe and well taken care of. This volunteer-based organization is always in need of support from residents. Volunteers are given hands-on and virtual training on basic first aid, fire extinguishing, rescue techniques, and more before becoming a member of the team. Learn more here.
Hoboken Volunteer Ambulance Corps | 707 Clinton Street, Hoboken
Getting to and from a healthcare facility in the event of an emergency is not something people think of until the time comes. Thankfully, one non-profit in Hoboken has this covered, but only with the help of volunteers. The Hoboken Ambulance Corps is a 100% volunteer-based, free resource for the community. To keep the organization running, they need volunteers in many capacities. Learn more here.
Hudson County American Red Cross | 257 Cornelison Avenue, Jersey City
The American Red Cross has been ready to respond in times of disaster for decades, and the COVID-19 crisis is no different. More than ever, the American Red Cross is in need of volunteers to help us all get through this time together. While there are many different opportunities, the opportunity named “most urgent” in the North Jersey area is as a Volunteer Driver. Drivers are needed to safely transport lifesaving blood from local blood drives to hospitals. Volunteers are asked to commit to 2-4 shifts per month with each shift being about 4 hours. All volunteers must have a valid driver’s license, at least 3 years of a clean driving record, and should be able to lift at least 45lbs. Learn more here.
See More: Blankets of Hope: A Nationwide Program With Hudson County Roots
Children + Education
Community Lifestyle | 311 Harrison Street, Hoboken
Community Lifestyle understands the importance of getting children and teens involved in after-school and weekend activities to provide opportunities to socialize, learn and grow in a positive environment. The organization’s values of stability, empathy, diversity, and connectedness can be seen through the programming provided throughout the year. Currently, the organization has opportunities for volunteers to get involved in numerous capacities. Volunteers are needed on an ongoing basis for programs like T.A.L.E which provides teens with an insight into the business world. Learn more here.
Educational Arts Team | 300 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City
Educational Arts Team believes in using the power of art to empower children to see the world in a positive light, improve self-esteem and promote academic success. Educational Arts Team organizes various events throughout the year to empower local children. Volunteers are needed for various tasks including administrative tasks in the office. To learn more about how to become a volunteer and what’s needed currently, click here.
Hoboken Family Alliance | Hoboken
One of the oldest non-profits in Hoboken, the Hoboken Family Alliance is a resource for children and families in the Mile Square. HFA typically puts on various events and provides opportunities for children to learn and play in a safe environment while providing families with various needs, necessary resources. HFA has several opportunities for volunteering through its committees and sub-committees such as marketing, special needs, fundraising, and more. To find what may be of interest, check out the website and fill out the volunteer form.
Hoboken Historical Museum | 1301 Hudson Street, Hoboken
The Hoboken Historical Museum was able to open during Phase two of the COVID-19 Reopening Plan. With the ability to accept a limited number of guests and to participate safely in city-wide events, the Hoboken Historical Museum is periodically in need of volunteers. To check if a need comes up and slots are available, check the sign-up form here. Volunteers are usually needed to set up information pamphlets, welcome registered guests, organize literature, etc. Learn more here.
Hoboken Public Library Foundation | Hoboken
The Hoboken Public Library provides necessary, educational resources to the community and allows for access to these resources. Many elements of the library rely on the support of community members. The Library is currently accepting donations through both the Friends Organization and Foundation. Learn more here.
Hudson County Court Appointed Special Advocates | 442 Hoboken Avenue, Jersey City
Hudson County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is consistently in need of volunteers. Once involved, CASA volunteers help to advocate for children in the foster care system by communicating to a judge on behalf of the child’s best interest after evaluating the child’s living environment. To become a volunteer, you must fill out a Volunteer Inquiry Form here. Once that’s completed, you will receive instructions on how to complete a 30-hour mandatory training course. Please keep in mind that this commitment must be upheld for a minimum of one year. Hudson County CASA is run by the donations of generous supporters. Learn more here.
HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc. | 301 Garden Street, Hoboken
Established in 1964, HOPES Community Action Partnership Inc., is a non-profit agency responding to the various needs of all people throughout the community. HOPES provides numerous opportunities for children, adults, and seniors to ensure success and overcome barriers that may cause poverty. Volunteers are needed in all capacities for all age groups and opportunities to support vary according to the current need. To learn more about the organization and how to get involved, click here.
Symposia Bookstore | 510 Washington Street Hoboken
Symposia Bookstore is the only non-profit store dealing with used books in Hoboken. The store has been in existence since 2001 and is run by the husband and wife team, Carmen and Corneliu Rusu. Symposia is run on donations from the community. Local residents are encouraged to donate used books to Symposia, donate monetarily, and volunteer in person. Learn more here.
TRUE Mentors | Hoboken + Virtual
TRUE Mentors is Hoboken’s only one-to-one mentor program. The program matches children ages 7-17 with trained mentors. Volunteers are needed to serve as mentors and can sign up to be trained. Volunteers must be 18 years or older and must make at least a 1-year commitment to their mentee for a minimum of 8 hours per month. Learn more here.
Write on Sports | Jersey City
Started in 2005 by a former sportswriter, Write on Sports is a non-profit organization whose mission is to fill in writing curriculum gaps by giving students the opportunity to learn through sports. Thousands of children each year fall behind in writing skills due to a lack of understanding, lack of resources, or simply a lack of interest in the writing topics in a traditional curriculum. Write on Sports allows students to improve literacy skills through a topic that interests many middle schoolers: sports. The organization has expanded over the past 16 years and now has a chapter in Jersey City. The Jersey City Chapter needs a Volunteer Assistant, Partnership Coordinator, and Social Media Intern. Learn more here.
Animals
Wise Animal Rescue
Wise Animal Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the well-being of all dog breeds. The rescue facility works with veterinary services to rescue and provide services/resources to dogs of all ages and breeds who have previously been in unsafe environments. Volunteer opportunities are available with Wise Animal Rescue in various capacities. Individuals are needed to help with adoption events, administrative tasks, fundraising, social media, and transportation. To submit a volunteer application, click here. Learn more here.
Liberty Humane Society | 235 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City
Liberty Humane Society is a homeless animal shelter servicing Hoboken, Jersey City, and Bayonne. The mission is to foster a community of compassion and respect and provide animals in need with a chance at a lifelong, loving home. Currently, in-person volunteer opportunities at the shelter are suspended, but check out the shelter’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates. Foster opportunities, however, are available. Fosters are most often needed for large dogs and cats. To apply to become a foster, click here.
See Spot Rescued | Jersey City
See Spot Rescued is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dog rescue based in Jersey City, NJ, and Austin, TX whose mission is to provide loving forever homes to dogs everywhere. The organization is 100% volunteer-run and is always looking for more people to join the team. Volunteers are needed to transport dogs throughout the tri-state area, support rescue events, organize fundraising efforts, make calls, and foster. No time commitment is too large or too small. To learn more about See Spot Rescued and to consider becoming a foster, click here.
