Distribution of Funds Tea for Traditional Legacy Grant Recipients

On November 7th, 2023, the Monmouth Park Charity Fund (MPCF) celebrated its 76th Annual Agency Distribution of Funds Tea at the Turf Club at Monmouth Park Racetrack. This year’s event honored Roberta O. Fox and awarded Traditional Legacy grants to 53 nonprofit organizations in Monmouth County.

The day was filled with delicious food and warm welcomes, courtesy of event sponsors Maureen & John Lloyd, Linda & Tom Sirico, and NJNG. These organizations received grants for programs that provide critical assistance to at-risk individuals and those needing special services in the community.

The ceremony was touching, with representatives from each agency sharing how these funds will impact lives. Since its inception, the fund has distributed $10,517,447 in grant allocations.

Additionally, agencies nominated a “Volunteer of the Year,” with Phyllis Solomon from Family Resource Associates winning the award for 2023.

The other nominees, who are all amazing, include:

• Pete McGuigan, Big Brothers Big Sisters Coastal & Northern NJ
• Dorothy Christiano, CentraState
• Brian Reilly, Common Ground Grief Center
• Nitza Cunning, Fulfill
• Brianna Cassidy, Handicapped High Riders – Riding High Farm
• Laura O’Hara, Hazlet Hope Network
• Bonnie Featherstone Johnson, Interfaith Neighbors
• Carol Robertson, LADACIN
• Kim Brockway, Literacy NJ Monmouth
• Blanca Lizaire, Lunch Break
• Glen Goldbaum, Mental Health Association
• Mary Rottino, Mercy Center
• Tammi Stanziale, No Limits Café
• Alexandra Lynch, RallyCap Sports
• Amy Weston, Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide
• Kathleen Bergin, The Center in Asbury Park
• Linda Cancro, The Samaritan Center of NJ
• Debbie Randolph, Trinity Center for Community
• Bob Rosone, United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties

Tom Hayes, Director of Customer & Community Affairs at NJNG, announced three additional $10,000 Accomplish More Together grants. These grants support agencies in forming program partnerships to bring new solutions to meet community needs by leveraging individual strengths.

This opportunity is part of a partnership between MPCF and New Jersey Natural Gas established in 2018. Since then, $95,000 has been distributed, 16 grants awarded, benefiting 39 non-profit organizations and thousands of Monmouth County residents.

Maria Farhat Tanzola recognized Winners Circle Society members, acknowledging their influence and support. This collective combines donations to provide an annual Transformational Grant, distributing four grants totaling $75,725 since 2020. The membership drive for the 2024 grant year is now open.

Maureen Lloyd & Maria, Co-Presidents of the Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude to the Board and supporters for enabling MPCF to reach numerous organizations providing critical services to families. The Distribution Tea recognizes recipient agencies and showcases their grants-funded programs, fostering partnerships and stronger community programs.