Each holiday season, we reflect on the year and a theme or two always stands out. This year, the theme is sharing. Our nonprofit partners and friends share so much of themselves with the community every day - their time, talents, resources, empathy, compassion, work, and worlds more. You bring so much joy to others so we asked, "What brings YOU joy?" Here is what you said!
It brings me joy to give to others!
Delicious food: family, friends, who've become family. Eat up!
My afternoon dance party - just me and Carlos Santana! (Thank goodness no one is watching this - lol)
FAMILY
Networking and resources looking for so much more of that!
Community
Family
The families we serve.
Laughing until your sides hurt with a cherished friend who "gets" you!
Empathy, kindness, acceptance even in the absence of understanding
My children
Motherhood!
What brings me joy is seeing children’s smiling faces when they get gifts.
Learning
Community
Knitting a few rows every morning
Working with organizations like the Grunin Foundation :) (we didn't write this ourselves, we promise!)
Friends, Family, and Colleagues Thriving!
Many things bring me joy, especially my family. In addition, when I see a single act of kindness and generosity given to another, that gives me joy and hope.
To see smiles on the faces of the people we serve… a tangible reminder of the impact of our hard work.
A good music playlist brings me joy!
Backpacking with my sons.
Trusting the team I work with - valuing our different contributions
Making art and sharing art making with others.
We are so grateful to be in community with such incredible organizations and individuals. Working with all of you to advance an equitable, just, and vibrant Central Jersey Shore is what gives us joy each and every day! Thank you for all you do and we look forward to continuing the work together in 2026 and beyond.