Board Members
Volunteer
Profile:
Cora Berke
"My husband is a teacher at Cranford High School and
Homefirst was selected as the charity for a student project. The students
held a breakfast and
people were asked to donate hats and scarves. I attended the breakfast
and met the staff of Homefirst. I was so impressed that I decided to
volunteer.
I am a volunteer and have been helping to write Press Releases. I am also helping with PR for the upcoming Anniversary Events.
Homefirst is such a wonderful organization. I have never met a staff that has such passion and dedication to their cause. The need for affordable housing is so great and it is so rewarding to see an organization that can get down to the root of the problem and make a difference in so many lives. I am proud to be a volunteer with them. "
Resident
Profile:
William Franklin Jr.
“Homefirst has had a big impact on my life. It is very good. I don’t have to worry, my health has improved.
When I first met Jennie she told me to get cleaned up and come back. After a year of rehab I came back and I got housing. Homefirst gave me a new lease on life. I am connected to the staff and other residents. I get ALL the support I need, not just give me a house and throw me away.
Now it is my private mission to reach out to others, make sure they get the same help I got.”
Employee Profile:
Sayydah Garrett
“The organization is true to its mission – helping homeless individuals and families
become independent. Homefirst keeps families together.
I am the Executive Assistant to the Interim Executive Director, Scott Cotenoff, J.D., M.P.H. .
Our work is very important. We do the right thing. I work with a very loving and dedicated staff."
Ambassador Profile:
Amy Van Pelt
"“What initially attracted me to the organization was its strong commitment to assist women and children living in poverty to build healthier and happier lives. I was impressed with the agency’s expansive network of support especially the volunteers who, working through their religious congregations, provide emergency shelter every day of the year to families in need!
As the Outreach and Education Coordinator for Homefirst I focus on the training and educational needs of our 1500+ volunteer base and the oversight of local religious congregations, which collaboratively run the Interfaith Hospitality Network.
The work of the organization is meaningful and changes lives every day – not just the lives of the guests who reside in our shelter and housing programs but the lives of our volunteers and donors who contribute their time, talent and/or treasure to serve their local community.”
Clergy Profile:
Rev. Ed Carll
"When I became the Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church, Westfield, the church community, had been committed to Homefirst for many years. I am glad to perpetuate strong support and active engagement!
For four weeks each year our church facility becomes "home" for several families in Union County. We are strengthened as a congregation by sharing this responsibility, along with many other faith communities."
