State of New Jersey Department of State

03/09/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/09/2026 12:46

New Jersey Joins America Gives in America’s Year of Service

Represent New Jersey as we make the 250th anniversary of the founding of America a defining year of service

TRENTON, NJ - New Jersey joins America250 in recognizing the milestone of the Semiquincentennial by making 2026 a record-setting year of volunteerism in our state. New Jerseyans have always met the moment by giving back. In 2026, we can do so again by mobilizing our community members of all ages to serve together.

"As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, there is no better way to honor this historic year than through service. Here in New Jersey, we wholeheartedly understand the value of community and the importance of helping our neighbors," said Lieutenant Governor Dr. Dale G. Caldwell, "Our partnership with America Gives will allow New Jerseyans to continue strengthening their commitment to one another through one of the largest volunteerism efforts our state has seen." As an America Gives partner, New Jersey will share in building on America's legacy of giving back and inspire a renewed culture of service for years to come.

Through meal packing, neighborhood cleanups, youth mentorship, civic engagement, and more, we invite everyone to take part in a historic year of volunteerism. "New Jersey's strength lies in its volunteers-the quiet heroes who give their time and heart to lift others. As we celebrate our nation's 250th, supporting initiatives like America Gives is a powerful way to honor the spirit of service and ensure our communities continue to thrive," said Rowena Madden, Executive Director of the New Jersey Governor's Office of Volunteerism.

"We are excited to support America Gives and encourage New Jerseyans to support their communities through volunteering with these great organizations. The 250th offers an important opportunity to reconnect with our neighbors and build bonds that really strengthen our communities," said New Jersey Historical Commission Executive Director Sara Cureton.

Beginning January 1, 2026, New Jerseyans can log their volunteer hours-helping demonstrate the scale and impact of service across the country-and be entered for a chance to be one of 250 winners who choose where America250 will donate $1,000,000 total. "America Gives is a simple way for New Jersey residents to make their hours count towards the national tally for America Gives. There are so many local organizations that need our support, and commemorating the 250th by volunteering is one way to get involved," said Executive Director for Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area Carrie Fellows.

In partnership with America Gives, we will activate local communities all year long, turning service into a lasting legacy of America's 250th anniversary.

This is how we honor our history-and build our future.

Log your volunteer hours and find a volunteer opportunity near you at https://america250.org/america-gives/.

State of New Jersey Department of State published this content on March 09, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on March 09, 2026 at 18:46 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]