How & Who We Help

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kids fun run

Sunday, October 4, 2015 – The Paul Jackson 5K/ 2 Mile Walk/ Kids Fun Run

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Join us!

Sunday, October 4, 2015 at Oak Ridge Park in Clark, NJ
for our 6th annual 5K/ 2 Mile Walk/ Kids Fun Run


Schedule:

8 am – Registration

9:30 am – 5K Run

9:45 am – 2 Mile Walk

10:30 am – Kids Fun Run


How to Register:

Option 1: Register by mail (print and send in application)

Registration Application:

Paul Jackson Fund 5K 2015 Registration Form

Click to download application

Option 2: Register online at: RaceForum.com/pauljackson


Entry Fees:

5K or Walk by 9/28:  $25

2015 USATF Members:  $22

After 9/28 or on race day:  $28

Kids Fun Run:  $10

Help us reach our goal of $25,000!

You can make a difference in someone’s life!

You can set up your own personalized fundraising page through FirstGiving, which gives you the ability to share pictures, videos, and personal stories with your family, friends and co-workers through email, Facebook and Twitter to help you reach your fundraising goal.

Fund raise individually or as a team.

visit firstgiving.com/pauljacksonfund

Raise $100 or more:  Run or Walk for Free!

Fundraising Prizes:

All Ages

Raise $1000 or More – Kindle Fire HD

Raise $500-$1000 – $75 Visa Gift Card

Ages 18 & Under

Raise $300 or more – 2016 Season Pass to Six Flags

Raise $150-$300 – 2 Movies Passes to AMC Theatres

One Prize Per Person


Amenities:

A Paul Jackson t-shirt to all pre-registrants and post registrants while supplies last.

Refreshments, DJ, random prizes and kids activities.

2 Mile Walk Wheelchair Friendly

2014 Newsletter – stories, events & thank you!

2014 Paul Jackson Fund Newsletter

Click to view/download newsletter with photos

Who We’ve Helped


Jason

JasonThe call came in from the Brain Injury Alliance of New Jersey. The case worker described a “favorite” family she had been working with for two years and was searching for help. She described what happened to their eldest child, 17 year old Jason, who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. After several months of receiving intense chemotherapy treatments, Jason suffered a stroke from the toxicity of the drugs. The stroke caused brain damage.

These tragic events left Jason hospitalized for months and his family sinking lower and lower into an emotional and financial tailspin. His mother could no longer work, as her days were spent caring for him and his siblings. The loss of income was devastating. Jason’s father works hard but his income barely covers the basic bills. On top of the limited finances, Jason’s parents faced the hard reality that their son would not live the life they had hoped for him.

The family’s needs were numerous; they had fallen behind in their rent and faced eviction, food was limited. Some days they could barely pay for the parking at Jason’s therapy appointments. The Paul Jackson Fund answered their plea for help; paying the overdue rent and assisting with household expenses. The Fund also partnered with the Union County Rugby Association which held a food drive on their behalf. The food was delivered to Jason’s family and they started to feel some relief. In addition, many local PJF supporters responded to our request for clothing and bedding for Jason and his siblings, who were delighted and deeply grateful.

This loving, caring family was able to breathe a little easier because of the Paul Jackson Fund and its incredible
supporters.
“The Paul Jackson Fund has helped us through our food and our financial crisis. We are so very grateful to have someone un-derstand the plight of having a loved one/child with cancer. Stepping in to reassure us there are people who could possibly understand the struggle that comes with cancer, for the one affected as well as for the family. We thank all who have helped this family rebuild and strengthen once again.” ~Jason’s Mom

Update:

Jason is back at school, in a special needs program, half days – and loves it! Three afternoons a week are spent at physi-cal, occupational and speech therapy appointments. Sadly, Jason suffers from chronic pain and was diagnosed with Avascular Necrosis, which is the death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply. This condition is the result of long term steroid and cancer treatments. Jason will soon have a second surgery to try and correct the condition.

The Family is still struggling and one of their greatest needs is for a car. If you know of someone who would like to do-nate a car or minivan to Jason’s family – please get in touch with us. They would be so very grateful.

Nicole

NicoleNicole is a kind, 70 year old woman who has suffered with polio since she was six years old. She lives with her 90 year old mother. Nicole has been confined to a wheelchair since she was a child and has only limited use of her hands, which is worsening with age and arthritis. Nicole is dependent on others for all her basic needs and activities of daily living.

Recently, Nicole’s home care benefits were reduced from 80 to 50 hours per week. This reduction in benefits eliminated assistance at night. Nichole had to be put into bed in the early evening, staying there until later the next morning when the home health aide arrived. Using the bathroom was not an option because there was no one to assist her.

The Paul Jackson Fund responded to Nicole’s need and paid for a night home health aide.

“Your generosity leaves me overwhelmed and deeply touched….. The donation you gave is appreciated more than words can say and I can assure you it will be used wisely and with a thankful heart… It will provide for hours of service and comfort for the eve-nings…. I thank you from the depth of my soul as I keep you in my prayers.” ~Nicole

Jackson

JacksonJackson is a beautiful seven month old baby who has been diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic neuromuscular disease characterized by muscle atrophy and weakness. SMA is the leading genetic cause of death in infants and toddlers. There is no known cure. Jackson cannot move his arms or legs or hold his head up independently and his ability to swallow is deteriorating. What should be a time of great joy for his parents, is instead filled with intense worry and anxiety.

Jackson’s family is holding on to hope as he was selected to participate in an out of state clinical trial.

The Paul Jackson Fund stepped in to help defray some of the costs associated with Jackson’s medical care and travel ac-commodations.

“Our family believes in miracles and we are hopeful for a divine intervention.” ~ Jackson’s loving grandfather

Gerard

Gerard is a 51 year old man who is battling Stage IV metastatic cancer and a seizure dis-order. Due to unexpected medical bills, Gerard fell behind on his rent. Facing eviction, he called numerous organizations and agencies seeking help, but without success. A call to The Paul Jackson Fund helped ease his burdens. The Fund paid his overdue rent bill.

Paul

Paul is a 51 year old married man with two teenage daughters who underwent chemotherapy and radiation simultaneously, for colon cancer. Paul now suffers from chemotherapy induced neuropathy. Disabled and unable to work, he struggles to keep afloat financially. Paul asked for help paying outstanding medical co-pays. The Paul Jackson Fund answered his call and paid the medical bills.

“…..People don’t understand the financial toll it takes on everything. I had gone through literally 100 organizations searching for help. Where other doors were closed, I opened your door to generosity, kind-ness and support ! Your organization will always be remembered and in my thoughts forever. God bless your wonderful organization.” ~Paul

Kim

KimAndRolandKim is a 56 year old married woman who suffered from a cerebral hemorrhage around the brain stem and a cerebral hematoma in the left hemisphere of the brain. Kim had been the primary wage earner, but cannot work now because of her surgeries and medical treatment. While this was oc-curring, her husband, Roland, was also hospitalized and diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Roland is back to work, but changed jobs so he could be available to care for his wife and take her to her physical, speech and cogni-tive therapy appointments. Their unexpected illness caused this family to fall behind in all their bills. Her husband, a loving and devoted man, was overwhelmed with their situation and could see no way out. “I / we are drowning in a sea of debt and are in desper-ate need of a lifeline.”

The Paul Jackson Fund became that lifeline for Kim and Roland. The Fund paid their overdue rent and assisted with household bills and living expenses. The Fund continues to deliver food from a local food pantry.

“I started to pray … and my prayers were answered. I was led to and contacted The Paul Jackson Fund. I told them my story and soon after they appeared on my doorstep..… And with one simple act of kindness they lifted the weight of the world that had been crushing the life out of us… That night for the first time in over a year, I got a good night’s sleep and did not wake up dreading the day… I could breathe, I could think… And I owe it to The Paul Jackson Fund.” ~Roland, Kim’s husband

We are Grateful


So many have donated their time, talents and resources to The Fund this year:

  • Union County Rugby held a food drive.
  • Tamaques school hosted a night with the Harlem Wizards.
  • A local book group held a book and bake sale; Cub Scouts Den 3 Pack 673 assisted in collecting books and St. Helen’s donated space to host the event.
  • Trinity Solar graciously donated and installed a home generator for a 9 year old girl with mitochondrial disease.
  • The Bodmer family donated a car to one of our recipients.
  • Holy Trinity donated space for our Party Dress Sale.
  • Pam Newell opened her home to host a Paul Jackson Fund informational cocktail party.
  • Especially Yours Florist in Kenilworth donated 20% of sales for all 8th grade dance and prom corsages.

2014 Giving Hope Gala & Auction


The Paul Jackson Fund held its second Giving Hope Gala & Auction on March 22nd at the Grand Summit Hotel. It was an evening of many laughs thanks to our honoree, Paul Har-baugh. We were also moved by our recipient speakers, Roland & Nicole. And thanks to the generosity of our guests, sponsors, gala committee and volunteers, the event raised $30,000.

We would like to acknowledge the following sponsors and individuals for going above and beyond to ensure this gala was a success:

Children’s Specialized Hospital, Hydro Teck Ltd., Don Dazzo, Jay Biss, Elke Elliott, Liz Molonari, Sue Harmer, Joan O’Connor, Pam Newell, Anna Dauiro, Rekemeier’s Florist, Stahl Del Duca, McEwen Flowers, Meeker’s Florist, Chris-toffers Flowers, The Green Room and Flower Art by Design Contempo.

2015GivingHope-Gala&Auction2015
Giving Hope Gala

The next Giving Hope Gala will be held on Saturday, March 28th, 2015 at The Grand Summit Hotel. This year will feature an evening of dancing.

We hope you will join us!

2014 5K/Walk/Kids Fun Run


On October 5, 2014, The Paul Jackson Fund held its fifth annual 5K/Walk/Kids Fun Run. The event was a great success. More than $16,000 was raised, thanks to our sponsors and participants. Many created online fundraising pages at FirstGiving.com. The top fundraisers were Daniel Han, Brian Tobin, Sue Chec-chio, Geri Jacob, Victoria Ronge and Eileen Jackson.

A special thanks to the following sponsors:

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital – Rahway, Investors Bank, Margaret & Peter Chang Foundation, Tiffany Natural Pharmacy, Northfield Bank, State Farm Insurance –Christine Cosenza, Applebee’s, The Shannon Rose Irish Pub, Bayada Home Health Care, AJ Jersey, Publick House, Shop Rite – Clark, Westfield Baseball League, Summit Medical Group, The Law Offices of Lisa M. Black, Snapple, ShopRite of Garwood, The Alternative Press, Starbucks, Hand & Stone – Massage and Facial Spa, MedExpress, True & Associates, Universal Builders Supply Inc., Sue Checchio – Coldwell Banker, The Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and Don Dazzo.

HOW YOU CAN HELP


  • Lend your skills in computers, marketing, networking, grant writing, fundraising, etc.
  • Check if your company has a matching gifts program, where you can double the impact of your do-nation.
  • Join our Golf or Gala Committee.
  • Host a cocktail party for your friends and coworkers to help raise awareness of The Fund. Invite your guests and we will come speak.
  • Raise money through our online fundraising website: www.firstgiving.com.
  • Mitzvah/Confirmation Projects.
  • Participate in sports: Marathon, Triathlons, 5Ks.
  • In lieu of birthday, anniversary or holiday gifts.
  • Become a team captain for our 6th annual 5K/walk – team captains invite friends and family to ei-ther walk or run as a team and set a fundraising goal – www.firstgiving.com will help spread the word about your efforts.
  • Donations may be made In Honor Of... or In Memory Of
  • Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter – where we will announce our upcoming events such as our dress sale, holiday drive, book sale, and community service opportunities.

Please consider making a donation through our annual appeal. You may donate online via PayPal or credit card. Your generosity enables us to continue helping families in dire need.

Thank you
for your support!

Download 2014 Newsletter as PDF

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