The holidays often remind people of the power of giving, but for Bergen Volunteers, that spirit lasts all year.
For nearly six decades, the Bergen County nonprofit has been a steady force for good, connecting those who want to help with those who need support. Led by CEO Shara Nadler, Bergen Volunteers has grown into a community anchor that uplifts thousands of residents each year.
“Our programs are volunteer driven,” Nadler said. “They range from keeping seniors safe in their homes to mentoring at-risk youth to help navigate through challenging times. We also help match volunteers with meaningful opportunities.”
The organization began nearly 60 years ago when a small group of residents noticed gaps in local social services and decided to take action. What started as neighbors being there for each other has grown into a network of hundreds of volunteers that reach more than 8,000 people annually through eight programs.
Bergen Volunteers meets the needs of older adults who live alone or need extra help. Through its CHORE program, volunteers visit seniors’ homes to perform small but important repairs such as fixing doorbells, tightening handrails and installing grab bars.
Another program, CHEER, matches volunteers with seniors who need companionship. Volunteers stop by for weekly visits, run errands or simply spend time together. “Sometimes it’s just about a trusted, friendly person being there to talk to,” Nadler said. “We want our seniors to feel seen, cared for and connected to their community.”
A newer initiative, the Shirvan Family Senior Safety Initiative, offers free home evaluations to identify risks and help seniors live safely and independently.
The Mentoring Program pairs volunteers with young people between the ages of 10 to 21 who need guidance and encouragement.
“One compelling story is about a young man who was struggling with his mental health,” Nadler said. His mentor began meeting him regularly for meals. The young man loved hamburgers, and this grew into a fun project to rate local burgers in the area. It helped him reconnect with life, and years later, their friendship still continues.
Other initiatives, such as Bergen Reads, focus on literacy by pairing volunteers with students in Hackensack and Teaneck elementary schools. More than 70 volunteers meet weekly with children to strengthen reading skills and build confidence.
Financial stability is another key focus. Through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, volunteers help low-income residents prepare and file taxes at no cost. “A $100 refund can make a difference for a family,” Nadler said. “It might help pay an electricity bill or put food on the table.”
The organization also invests in leadership development through its Bergen LEADS and Teen LEADS programs, which help adults and teens become more informed, thoughtful leaders in Bergen County.
This December, Bergen Volunteers will host a new initiative called Neighbors Helping Neighbors, taking place Sunday, Dec. 7. The event will bring together 200 volunteers to assemble 2,000 care packages filled with essential items such as snack packs for students, toiletry kits for women’s shelters and cold weather bundles for homebound seniors.
“The holidays can be isolating for many,” Nadler said. “We want everyone, from children to older adults, to feel cared for and remembered. When we come together as a community, that’s when the magic truly happens.”
As Bergen Volunteers approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, the organization continues to rely on the generosity of individuals, families and businesses to keep its programs strong.
“We are grateful for every donation and volunteer for making a real difference across Bergen County,” Nadler said. “Giving back and strengthening our community is a long-lasting gift.”
For Nadler, who has led the nonprofit for just over a year, the work is deeply personal. “I’ve been a volunteer all my life,” she said. “There’s nothing more powerful than seeing how one small act of kindness can change a person’s day or even their life.”
To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit bergenvolunteers.org.
“When we come together as a community, that’s when the magic truly happens. Every act of kindness creates lasting change.” - Shara Nadler