Courtesy photo
Junior League of Summit Annual Dinner
The Junior League of Summit (JLS) gave out more than $37,000 in grants, scholarships and awards at its Annual Dinner on June 19, 2023, at the Madison Hotel Conservatory.
Grants were awarded to St. Andrew’s Haven, Bridges, GRACE, Summit Speech School, Chatham Community Food Distribution, Overlook Foundation Healthstart, Imagine and Summit First Aid Squad. The JLS Community Grants Program focused on projects which meet the emerging needs of our communities arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The program enables the JLS to support other nonprofit organizations creating change in the Summit area.
The Jean Hudson Gano Award was given to Aidan Barth and Abigail Franco of New Providence. The duo co-founded and managed the LINC Resource Pantry which provides food and household items to families in need. This award was established and named in honor of Jean after her early passing in May 1997. Jean’s impact on the community was far-reaching and long-lasting – the award is given annually in her memory.
The Shirley Wight Keeney Scholarships were granted to Madison Ryder and Eli Markowitz of Summit and Alexander Chatterjee of Chatham. Each student demonstrated academic excellence and has shown significant volunteer work that aligns with the JLS mission. Shirley was a beloved member and Past President of the JLS.
The Amanda Parrish Block Grant winner was the Summit Warm Hearts (SWH) program of the Summit Interfaith Council. SWH provided shelter and meals for individuals with nowhere else to turn during the winter months. Each year, the JLS awards this grant based on needs that arise in the community surrounding food insecurity and essential demands. The grant was established in 2017 in honor of JLS member Amanda Parrish Block, founder of Giving and Receiving Assistance for our Community’s Essentials (GRACE).
“Besides carrying out our own volunteer work, the JLS believes it can also make a real difference by supporting other nonprofits and further promoting volunteerism in the community. The Summit area is so fortunate to have amazing organizations and residents in our area that contribute significant and impactful efforts,” commented JLS President Rachel Zucker. “Through our grants, scholarships and awards, the JLS has the honor of being able to help so many groups and individuals continue their good work and make even more amazing contributions to our community. We are so proud to be able to make a difference, and we can’t wait to see our recipients flourish.”
The Junior League of Summit, Inc. is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer actions, collaboration and training. For more information about the Junior League of Summit, please visit the website at www.jlsummit.org or contact the office at 908-273-7349.
