Many nonprofits rely on galas, auctions and other fundraising events to help support their organization each year. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused most of those events to be canceled. Hunterdon Strong was created in partnership with 11 community nonprofits and the County’s EMS in an effort to join forces and raise the much-needed funds that will ensure continued support for the Hunterdon community. #HunterdonStrong will be live-streamed on November 19, 2020 from 6 PM to 8 PM via YouTube. 100% of the funds raised from the event will support 11 nonprofits and the County’s volunteer first responders. The event is sponsored by ShopRite of Hunterdon County and many other businesses have chosen to support the event.
The participating nonprofits that will benefit from the virtual fundraiser and celebration include:
- America’s Grow-A-Row
- Family Promise of Hunterdon County
- Flemington Area Food Pantry
- Hunterdon County First Responders
- Hunterdon County YMCA
- Hunterdon Healthcare Foundation
- Hunterdon Helpline
- Meals on Wheels in Hunterdon
- Norwescap
- Prevention Resources
- Safe in Hunterdon
- United Way of Hunterdon County
When Hunterdon County faced the incredible challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, this group of nonprofits raised their hands and stepped forward to the front line to meet the community’s needs during this unprecedented time. These organizations assisted two to three times the volume of people they normally serve and provided direct support to Hunterdon County residents in areas such as health, housing, food and mental health among others. They continue to address the needs of our most vulnerable and the community at large. Although the pandemic continues to impact our state and the nation, we are fortunate that in no small part due to the community’s commitment to working together, Hunterdon County remains one of the safest and healthiest counties in New Jersey and the Country.
“My father founded our family company, ShopRite of Hunterdon County, when he opened the ShopRite of Flemington in 1958. We’ve been part of the community for a long time and we believe it’s important to support the local organizations that have always been there for all of us,” said Joe Colalillo, president of ShopRite of Hunterdon County, a main sponsor of the event. “The #HunterdonStrong live stream broadcast on YouTube will feature our neighbors and local heroes while celebrating all the good work these community organizations have accomplished during this very difficult year.”
The event will be a two-hour live stream broadcast via the internet and will include messaging from every participating organization, performances from local bands such as Spin Doctors and Winslow, as well as well wishes, and lots of giveaways, with the goal of raising $1.5 million. The evening will culminate in a 50/50 that could reach $60,000! Although portions of the broadcast will be pre-recorded, ArtYard will be hosting the live portion of the event. ArtYard, located in Frenchtown, NJ, is an alternative contemporary art gallery, theater, and residency program and nonprofit founded by a group of artists, filmmakers, curators, and writers. The arts are an important part of creating a healthy community because they stimulate the imagination, enhance problem-solving and help to reduce stress.
“Whether it be food or shelter for those in need, support for those facing a personal crisis, or meeting the healthcare needs of every resident, our vision has always been to help every individual pursue the most fulfilling life possible, and not merely a life absent of disease or infirmity. #HunterdonStrong was born from the belief in the strength of our community, our people and our collaborative nature,” stated Phil Beekman, Senior Vice President, Hunterdon Healthcare Foundation and Community Relations.
For more information on how to tune in at YouTube and support the November 19th fundraiser, please visit www.HunterdonStrong.org.