The Goodwill Community Outreach Fund
Our mission is to provide essential resources and support to our community, fostering hope and empowerment.
Founded in 2023, with a commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families in need, the Goodwill Community Outreach Fund is a grassroots organization led by long time Highland Lakes residents.
Ways We Help
Emergency Fund
In any community there are often emergency needs that arise & must be addressed quickly; whether paying utilities, buying food, clothing for children paying a doctor’s bill.
The office may receive a call, or a concerned neighbor may inquire whether there is any way to help a family in crisis.
A GCOF Emergency Fund would
fill this need.
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Members can contact the Goodwill Community Outreach Fund directly, or may be referred by a family member, friend, or an organization such as house of worship, Neighbors Helping
Neighbors, or the local ambulance corps.
Neighbors
Helping Neighbors
Helping our seniors maintain their independence is crucial. Many of our seniors no longer drive or need assistance with daily tasks.
We’re seeking volunteers who can: Provide occasional rides to local pharmacies, grocery stores, doctor's appointments, run errands, make friendly visits or phone calls to homebound seniors, offering much needed companionship.
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Staying in your home as you get older is important for a person’s independence. The aid is simple household tasks and repairs such as: changing light bulbs, hanging pictures, and similar chores. In some instances, repairing locks, doors, leaky pipes, and replacing wall switches or outlets can be offered.
Lending Closet​
Medical Equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and the like are available for the use of our residents at no cost through the GCOF. Residents may borrow the equipment as needed.
Food Share
Our Food Share Program helps bridge the gap for families in need by providing access to nutritious groceries. Whether you’re looking to donate food or pick up essentials, we welcome you to be part of a community that cares. Together, we create a table where everyone has a seat.
Community Scholarship
A one-time $500 scholarship awarded to a graduating High School senior that resides full time in the Highland Lakes Community, has been involved in a volunteer activity and plans to continue their education at a Vocational/Trade School, College or University. Submissions due May 1.
How You Can Help
Giving Opportunities
The Goodwill Community Outreach Fund can only exist because of the generosity of our supporters and community members.
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Gift in Kind donations may be made to the GCOF by providing a service or goods. A gift may be made in memory or honor of someone. The Path to Goodwill is another giving opportunity that is available.
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Gifts of cash or check may be given to the GCOF by sending to:
P.O. Box 95
Highland Lakes, NJ 07422
Volunteer Opportunities
Our volunteers play a crucial role, offering transportation & support to our members. Each volunteer is thoroughly background-checked and trained, ensuring a safe and positive
experience. By volunteering, you’ll experience the joy of helping a neighbor in need. You can: Provide rides to appointments, places of worship, shopping, or from the hospital. Assist with errands and small home repairs. Make friendly visits or phone calls to those who are homebound. Help organize interest groups to knowledge and skills.
Events
Events are a cornerstone of our organization’s success, bringing our community together and raising essential funds to support our mission. We are actively seeking enthusiastic volunteers who can bring fresh, creative ideas to our upcoming events and fundraisers. Your involvement can make a significant impact! Some of our exciting upcoming events include: the Fall Book Sale, the Community Yard Sale, the Boat Auction and Path to Goodwill.
We also invite you to become a member of our Events Committee. This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute your ideas, help plan and execute events and collaborate with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a difference.
Board of Directors
Nancy E. Eisenberg
President​
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Martin Brady​​
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Janice Fajardo
Emergency Fund Coordinator
Martha Z. Lewin
Vice-President/Secretary
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Kate M. Eisenberg​
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Maria Trachtenberg
Outreach Transportation Coordinator
Brian Kloza
Treasurer
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​Maryann
Deady
Gunning​
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Mary Metzler
Secretary​​
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​Shawn Poppe​​
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Ralph Davis
Outreach Home Repairs Coordinator
​​​​​Catherine Spoerl​
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Gerry Nathan
GCOF Lending Closet Coordinator