Philanthropy is about much more than just giving money. It’s about the deep heart connections and communities made stronger during the act of giving of any kind – time, energy, talent, resources, information or financial support. We have always known this at Arbor Terrace Morris Plains, which is why we continue to make a large investment in our local Morris County Chamber of Commerce, through participation with the Health and Wellness Committee and Legacy Philanthropy Project.
Philanthropy is also about honoring the values and mission of a community and the organizations that support it. Proudly, since August 2020, we have participated in an ongoing commitment to the larger community through our work with the Legacy Philanthropy Project, which supports four local non-profit organizations and programs. These organizations include Roots and Wings, Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris Counties, the United Way Assistive Technology Program and nourish.NJ. This commitment will continue through August 2021, but our efforts to be a bridge in building stronger communities will extend far beyond.
So far, we have hosted and provided scholarships for a Mental Health First Aid Training with classes taught by the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris Counties. Scholarships were granted to those who participated, such as Arbor Terrace Morris Plains staff members, staff from Roots and Wings, members of the Minute Men First Aid Squad and members of the Health and Wellness Committee. Roots and Wings is a non-profit organization that promotes education, stability and self-sufficiency for those who have aged out of the foster care system.
Look for future updates about ongoing efforts to support these organizations with other projects. We are now gearing up to participate in events and initiatives for International Day of Happiness celebrated on March 20. This will be a precursor to this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month coming in May. The goal of these projects will be to raise awareness of mental health initiatives and ways we can all support those who live with mental health challenges.