There are so many great organizations in New Jersey that need local support. Over the years I found a number of great charities where I have lended a hand and my support.   Here are a few of the fine organizations in our area that are worth checking out for your annual giving plans.  The below text is taken from their websites:

Clean Ocean Action – www.cleanoceanaction.org

Clean Ocean Action (COA) is a broad-based coalition of 125 active boating, business, community, conservation, diving, environmental, fishing, religious, service, student, surfing, and women’s groups.  These “Ocean Wavemakers” work to clean up and protect the waters of the New York Bight.  The groups came together in 1984 to investigate sources, effects, and solutions of ocean pollution.  What follows is a description of the network.

Under the guidance of COA’s Board of Trustees, COA’s staff researches pollution issues affecting the marine environment, then formulates policy and campaigns to eliminate each pollution source. The staff then coordinates and organizes the Ocean Wavemakers (Participating Organizations, Concerned Businesses, Educators for a Clean Ocean, and Concerned Citizens) to use their individual experience and expertise to help. Press events, rallies, writing letters, making phone calls, testifying at public hearings, and distributing literature are just some of the ways members of the coalition become involved.

With eight ocean dumpsites closed, powerful new clean water laws on the books, and a greater public awareness of the ocean and its improved health, it’s clear the system works.

Juvenile Diabetes Association – Central New Jersey Chapter

JDRF is the leader in research leading to a cure for type 1 diabetes in the world.  It sets the global agenda for diabetes research, and is the largest charitable funder and advocate of diabetes science worldwide.

The mission of JDRF is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research.  Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly, and can be fatal.  Until a cure is found, people with type 1 diabetes have to test their blood sugar and give themselves insulin injections multiple times or use a pump – each day, every day of their lives.  And even with that intensive care, insulin is not a cure for diabetes, nor does it prevent its eventual and devastating complications, which may include kidney failure, blindness, heart disease, stroke, and amputation.

Since its founding in 1970 by parents of children with type 1 diabetes, JDRF has awarded more than $1.3 billion to diabetes research, including more than $156 million in FY2008.  In FY2008, the Foundation funded more than 1,000 centers, grants in laboratories, hospitals, and industry, and fellowships in 22 countries.

Holiday Express – www.holidayexpress.org

Founded in 1993 by Tim McLoone, Holiday Express is a grass roots, non-sectarian, registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Comprised of more than 1,300 volunteers – including 80+ professional musicians – Holiday Express delivers music, food, gifts, financial support and friendship to adults and children who are physically and mentally disabled, living with AIDS or homeless, as well as the isolated elderly and others in need.

We travel throughout the Tri-State area in November and December bringing approximately fifty “interactive private parties” to clients who might otherwise be overlooked during the holiday season. Our events include a rock ‘n’ roll band, costumed characters, choreographed parodies, crafts, games, food, good cheer, gifts and lots of hugs!