Ramapo College’s Volunteer Efforts Recognized among Companies That Care by CIANJ, COMMERCE Magazine

MAHWAH, N.J. – Ramapo College of New Jersey was recognized for its volunteer efforts when the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ) and COMMERCE Magazine recently hosted their 7th Annual Companies That Care reception – paying tribute to the kindness and generosity of the business community.

The College’s Civic & Community Engagement Center (CCEC) was recognized among the 46 entities, including leading manufacturers, retailers, hospitals, banks, and colleges and universities at the virtual reception, held on September 30.
“The We Care program at Ramapo College is demonstrative of our values as an institution and as a community,” said Ramapo College President Peter P. Mercer. “Establishment of the program was a collaborative effort by students, administrators, faculty, and staff, who collectively recognized the vulnerability of some of our students and the need to help support them. The Program has grown noticeably in the past two years to now also include the support of our donors and alumni–all of whom continue to be remarkably committed to the success and wellness of our students.”
Ramapo College’s essay:
Guided by the College’s mission, Ramapo students partake in many opportunities that focus on volunteering and community service, enhancing a stellar liberal arts curriculum and fostering the development of globally conscious citizens. Students involved in the College’s Civic and Community Engagement Center (CCEC) volunteer their time to several key programs: The We Care Program, established in 2018, provides resources for students who experience food insecurity, need supplemental funding for day-to-day incidentals, and/or are facing homelessness. Students who participate in the Alternative Break Program spend their spring break working with endangered animal species at the NATUWA Macaw Sanctuary, a wildlife conservation organization in Costa Rica, or travel to Asheville, North Carolina, to work with Habitat for Humanity and volunteer at the Art Space Charter School Community Garden to help combat hunger needs in the area. Leaders in Service (LIS) allows incoming first-year students an opportunity to get involved with service projects, political engagement and leadership opportunities at Ramapo before their first semester begins. Since its inception 10 years ago, LIS has involved more than 450 students who have recorded nearly 5,000 volunteer hours of community service on campus and throughout the region.
“For most of the companies we are honoring, giving back and helping those in need is part of their culture,” said Anthony Russo, President of CIANJ. “The public is not always aware of how much these companies take on and the types of needs they address. This virtual reception is our way of showcasing these Companies That Care.”
CIANJ is a statewide business advocacy organization, representing more than 950 corporate members from every industry sector.