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Foundation

A Non-Profit Corporation

The ESCNJ Foundation for Education, Inc.

Linking the community with the special services students and families we support — informing the public, enhancing community participation, and raising funds for special education programs and schools across our campuses.

Introduction

We are proud to announce the launch of the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Foundation for Education, Inc. The ESCNJ Foundation for Education is a non-profit corporation dedicated to linking the community with the special services students and families we support. The foundation is designed with the intent of informing the public, enhancing the community participation in special needs education and raising funds in support of special education programs and schools across our campuses.

Organization

The foundation was established in 2021 by the ESCNJ Board of Directors and is administered by a board of trustees made up of dedicated educators. The foundation's only purpose is to raise funds to be distributed to support ESCNJ's special education programs and schools. The foundation represents a vital link between the community and our specialized schools as a means of investing in our students with special needs.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to serve as a charitable organization that bridges students, families, schools, and communities to the resources, opportunities, and experiences that support individuals with special needs. Through advocacy, collaboration, and community partnerships, we are committed to fostering inclusion, growth, and meaningful opportunities for every individual we serve.

The Foundation will carry out its mission by focusing on the following strategic goals:

Goal 1

Build a Sustainable Charitable Funding Base to Support Individuals with Special Needs

  • Create a donor stewardship plan that communicates impact, recognizes generosity, and strengthens long-term relationships with supporters.
  • Build relationships with community foundations, philanthropic organizations, and faith communities in Middlesex County and across New Jersey.
  • Establish at least one annual signature community fundraising event that generates revenue, celebrates individuals with special needs, and raises public awareness.
  • Run targeted giving campaigns tied to awareness moments such as Special Education Awareness Month, Autism Acceptance Month, and Disability Pride Month.
Goal 2

Bridge Students, Families, Schools, and Communities to Resources and Opportunities

  • Establish clear eligibility criteria that prioritize programs and schools serving individuals with special needs who face the greatest barriers to resources and opportunity.
  • Expand grant categories to include enrichment experiences, adaptive technology, family support resources, transition programs, and extracurricular opportunities.
  • Publish an annual impact report that shares stories, data, and outcomes to demonstrate the difference the Foundation's work makes in the community.
Goal 3

Advance Advocacy, Collaboration, and Community Awareness

  • Ensure all communications reflect the Foundation's values of inclusion, community, and advocacy — and speak directly to families, donors, and partners alike.
  • Develop a professional website, social media presence, and community-facing materials that share the Foundation's vision, mission, and impact in an accessible and welcoming way.

Vision

The ESCNJ Foundation for Education is dedicated to raising funds that create meaningful opportunities, enriching experiences, and lasting support for individuals with special needs within our community.

A Note from the Board of Trustees

Every individual with special needs deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and participate fully in community life. The ESCNJ Foundation for Education, Inc. exists to help make that possible by raising funds, building bridges, and advocating for the students, families, schools, and communities who need our support.

This Strategic Plan reflects not just what we intend to do, but what we believe. We believe in the power of community. We believe in the importance of inclusion. And we believe that together — with our donors, our partners, and the families we serve — we can create meaningful opportunities and lasting change for every individual we are privileged to support.

Board of Trustees

Nadia Romano ESCNJ Superintendent of Schools

Officers

Dr. Nandy Itwaru President
Christine Werner Secretary / Treasurer

Trustees

Alexander Van Driesen
Carol Sparmo
Christine Carlo
Christine Moore
Colleen Marash
Heidi Caruso
Jennifer Nesi
Jolanta Kolodziejski
Jordan McKay
Katherine Blades
Kelli Loss
Monica Groel
Susan Osman