Virtual Connection Session: June 2025
On June 24, 2025 at 11 AM SJCA hosted a Virtual Connection Session featuring guest speaker Michele Francesconi from the Volunteer Center of South Jersey. During this session, Francesconi provided incredible insight regarding the benefits of purchasing services from the Volunteer Center of South Jersey.
SJCA Updates
SJCA has a new mailing address: 174 South New York Ave, #142, Oceanville, NJ 08231.To foster more accessible communication, open office hours are now available on the first Monday of each month.
There are several upcoming grant and networking opportunities of interest. The NJ Historical Commission is reinstating its historical marker program and is currently encouraging applications. Additional opportunities include the NJ State Council on the Arts upcoming in person Annual Meeting and the ETC Performing Arts Funding Program.
- NJ Historical Commission | 250th Initiative for the New Jersey State Historical Marker Program | In preparation for America’s 250th in 2026 the New Jersey Historical Commission will be reinstating the State Historical Marker Program. | Submission details and more information.
- New Jersey State Council on the Arts | July 2025 Annual Public Meeting | The New Jersey State Council on the Arts will convene its 2025 Annual Meeting in July. | Date & Time: Tuesday, July 22nd at 10 AM | Location: Trenton War Memorial, 1 Memorial Drive, Trenton, NJ | More information.
- Creating Healthy Communities: Arts in Public Health Convening | Presented by the University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Creating Healthy Communities will bring together more than 500 people from across the United States who are thinking, working, and innovating at the intersections of arts and culture, public health and community development. | Dates: October 14 - 16, 2025 | Early bird pricing ends July 18, 2025. To apply for a low- or no-fee registration, made possible by support from the NJ State Council on the Arts and the Pabst Steinmetz Foundation, click here.
- ETC | Performing Arts Funding Grant Program | Deadline: August 31, 2025 | More information and application.
Volunteer Center of South Jersey Overview
Jersey Cares is a leading nonprofit organization with a legacy of empowering citizens and fostering stronger communities throughout New Jersey. By working with local nonprofits and schools, Jersey Cares connects volunteers with meaningful service opportunities that address community-identified needs. For more information, visit www.jerseycares.org.
About the Volunteer Center of South Jersey (VCSJ)
VCSJ now a Program at Jersey Cares, is a volunteer action center serving eight counties in South Jersey. VCSJ empowers New Jersey nonprofits through capacity-building education, best practices, and resources in effective volunteer engagement. Learn more at www.sjvolunteers.org.-
Current Volunteer Engagement Trends
Current trends in volunteer engagement reveal that individuals are increasingly seeking roles that offer meaningful connections aligned with an organization’s mission. Volunteers want to co-create and contribute beyond simple tasks and value inclusive environments with diverse participation. There is also a growing preference for short-term, flexible roles and skills-based opportunities such as technology or marketing support. Additionally, virtual and hybrid roles are broadening access, and volunteers are increasingly seen as potential donors or future board members.
Best Practices for Volunteer Engagement
- Start recruiting 2-3 months in advance for events
- Write clear, compelling role descriptions with engaging titles
- Provide thorough onboarding and day-of support
- Express gratitude and highlight impact regularly
- Gather feedback and stay connected after events
- Consider micro-volunteering options for flexibility
Get Connected Platform Features
The Get Connected platform, available free for SJCA members (or for $80 annually for others), enables users to post volunteer opportunities and events, track hours, manage scheduling and check-ins, and coordinate communication. It also provides robust reporting tools.
Capacity Building Services
- 4-part Volunteer Engagement Training series
- Board development training and recruitment platform
- Youth internship program (120 hour projects)
- Customized consulting services
- Service Enterprise certification program
Full Presentation: SJCA Presentation - 6-24-25
Recording of the session: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6a8oLu91qQ
Contact information: michele@sjvolunteers.org
