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Infórmese Sobre Programas Y Servicios Valiosos Para Los Adultos Mayores Del Condado De Union en El Próximo Evento Local «ASK»

A flyer announcing the July ASK dates: July 14 and July 23.

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union invita a los adultos mayores, a sus familias y a sus cuidadores a los próximos eventos del programa ASK (*Aging Services Kiosk* o Kiosco de Servicios para Personas Mayores) que se llevarán a cabo este mes de julio, con el fin de que conozcan la amplia gama de programas y recursos disponibles para este sector de la población. Estos eventos permiten a los asistentes reunirse en persona con profesionales experimentados que pueden brindar orientación experta y asistencia en diversos trámites, incluida la cumplimentación de formularios. En todas las fechas habrá personal bilingüe disponible para ofrecer apoyo en español.

“Nuestro Kiosco de Servicios para Personas Mayores funciona como un centro comunitario móvil que facilita la comunicación entre los adultos mayores, los cuidadores y el Condado de Union. Este verano, y durante todo el año, invitamos a los adultos mayores a visitar cualquiera de nuestras convenientes ubicaciones para hacer preguntas, informarse sobre los recursos disponibles y recibir la ayuda que necesiten al transitar por estas nuevas etapas de la vida”, declaró Joseph C. Bodek, Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “Este es un recurso extraordinario para los adultos mayores, y les animo a que visiten su biblioteca local y conversen con uno de nuestros expertos en servicios para adultos mayores para descubrir por qué”.

El programa ASK es gestionado directamente por la División de Servicios para Personas Adultos Mayores (*Division on Aging*), una dependencia del Departamento de Servicios Humanos del Condado de Union. Ofrece a los adultos de 60 años o más, así como a sus cuidadores, una vía cercana y práctica para descubrir programas y servicios valiosos y hablar personalmente con un profesional de dicha división.

El personal de los puntos ASK puede ayudar a los adultos mayores y a sus cuidadores a acceder a diversos servicios, tales como entrega de comidas a domicilio, servicios de relevo para cuidadores (*respite care*), atención domiciliaria, centros de día para adultos y servicios de apoyo para cuidadores. Cualquier adulto mayor o cuidador residente en el Condado de Union puede visitar cualquiera de los kioscos ASK, independientemente de donde resida. No se requiere cita previa ni inscripción. A continuación, se detallan los próximos eventos ASK programados para el mes de julio:

Martes 14, de julio

Union Public Library

1980 Morris Avenue, Union

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Jueves 23 , de julio

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

“Estamos especialmente agradecidos a la División de Envejecimiento por su compromiso de garantizar que nuestra comunidad de personas mayores tenga acceso a alimentos frescos y recursos. Ellos son el motor de estas iniciativas y nos enorgullece seguir apoyándolos para mejorar la calidad de vida de nuestros residentes”, afirmó el Comisionado James Baker, enlace con el Consejo Asesor sobre el Envejecimiento.

Para obtener más información sobre los eventos ASK y otros servicios para adultos mayores en el Condado de Union, comuníquese con la División de Envejecimiento y Conexión de Recursos para Personas con Discapacidad (Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection) llamando a la línea gratuita 1-888-280-8226 o visitando el sitio web www.ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

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Learn About Valuable Programs and Services for Union County Seniors at the Next Local ‘ASK’ Event

Flyer for upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events this July 14th and 23rd.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors, their families, and caregivers to the upcoming Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events this July to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on all dates to provide support in Spanish.

“Our Aging Services Kiosk serves as a mobile community hub, facilitating the conversation between seniors, caregivers, and Union County. This summer, and all year round, we welcome seniors to visit any of the convenient locations to ask questions, learn about available resources, and get the help they need as they navigate through these new stages of life,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “This is an incredible resource for seniors, and I urge them to stop by their local library and chat with one of our Aging experts to see why.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown. No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in July:

Tuesday, July 14th

Union Public Library

1980 Morris Avenue, Union

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Thursday, July 23rd

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

“We are especially grateful to the Division on Aging for its commitment to ensuring our senior community has access to fresh food and resources. They are the beating heart of these initiatives, and we are proud to continue supporting them in improving the quality of life of our residents,” said Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.

For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging .

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Se Anuncian Las Fechas De Julio Para El Programa Gratuito De Reciclaje Del Condado De Union Para Los Residentes

A flyer advertising the seasonal recycling programs in July, including Thursday, July 9th at Rahway River Park for shredding, and Thursday, July 2nd & Saturday, July 18th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Cranford: Emergency Services Building, and Rahway: Rahway River Park for scrap metal.

– La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union se complace en anunciar que el programa estacional de reciclaje del 2026 continuará en julio, ofreciendo una variedad de eventos diseñados para ayudar a los residentes a reciclar artículos no deseados, caducados o peligrosos, y para promover prácticas sostenibles de gestión de residuos en la comunidad.

“Queremos que los residentes sepan que cada celebración, barbacoa o día de playa que disfruten este verano representa una nueva oportunidad para reciclar de manera responsable y cuidar el medio ambiente; estamos aquí para facilitarles al máximo esta tarea”, dijo el Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Joseph C. Bodek. “Animo a los residentes a consultar las fechas, planificar con antelación y aprovechar este recurso gratuito”.

El Condado de Union ofrece eventos gratuitos de destrucción de documentos (trituración móvil) desde marzo hasta octubre, brindando a los residentes una forma segura y cómoda de deshacerse de documentos personales en el mismo lugar del evento. Los eventos se llevan a cabo de 9:00 a. m. a 1:00 p. m., o hasta que los camiones alcancen su capacidad máxima. Se invita a los residentes a participar en el siguiente evento de destrucción de documentos programado para julio:

Jueves, 9 de julio: Rahway River Park (patio de servicio frente a la piscina), 3 Parkway Drive, Rahway

Los eventos de destrucción de documentos del Ccondado de Union están destinados exclusivamente a documentos confidenciales y personales, tales como registros legales, médicos y financieros. No se permite la participación de empresas. El correo basura, la publicidad, las revistas y cualquier otro papel de desecho que no se considere confidencial o delicado debe reciclarse a través de los programas municipales de reciclaje.

Por favor, retire todas las encuadernaciones, clips grandes de plástico o metal y otros objetos antes del evento (se permiten las grapas). No se aceptará papel previamente triturado, húmedo o mojado.

El programa de reciclaje de chatarra metálica del Condado de Union también continúa en julio, ofreciendo a los residentes diversas oportunidades para reciclar de manera responsable distintos artículos metálicos, incluyendo refrigeradores (sin las puertas), gabinetes metálicos, electrodomésticos, bicicletas, chatarra de aluminio e incluso aires acondicionados. Los próximos eventos de reciclaje de chatarra de la temporada se llevarán a cabo el jueves 2 de julio y el sábado 18 de julio, de 9:00 a. m. a 12:00 p. m., en dos ubicaciones convenientes:

Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
Rahway: Rahway River Park patio de servicio frente a la piscina), 3 Parkway Drive

El próximo evento de recolección de residuos domésticos peligrosos del Condado de Union se llevará a cabo el sábado 8 de agosto, de 9:00 a. m. a 2:00 p. m. El evento tendrá lugar en el estacionamiento Kean Hall de la Universidad Kean (Kean University), ubicado en 1000 Morris Avenue, en Union. En estos eventos, los residentes pueden llevar diversos productos químicos domésticos para su correcto reciclaje o eliminación. Entre estos artículos se incluyen, entre otros: acabados a base de aceite, aceite de motor, gasolina, tanques de propano, productos químicos para piscinas, pesticidas, bombillas fluorescentes y más. No se aceptará pintura de látex (a base de agua o para paredes), objetos punzocortantes de uso médico ni cilindros de gas para soldar u oxígeno. Se recomienda a los residentes secar la pintura de látex en casa utilizando endurecedor de pintura comercial, arena, arena para gatos o aserrín. Una vez endurecida, puede desecharse con la basura doméstica habitual.

Todos los eventos de reciclaje del Condado de Union se realizan sin contacto físico y bajo la modalidad de entrega desde el vehículo (*drive-up*). Los residentes deben permanecer en sus automóviles mientras el personal descarga los materiales del maletero.

Para consultar el calendario completo y obtener más información sobre todos los programas de reciclaje organizados por el Condado de Union, visite www.ucnj.org/recycling/ o llame a la línea directa de reciclaje del Condado al 908-654-9889. Los residentes también pueden comunicarse con el coordinador de reciclaje de su municipio para obtener más detalles sobre el reciclaje en su comunidad. La aplicación móvil gratuita “Recycle Coach” ofrece una forma práctica de saber qué artículos se incluyen en los programas de reciclaje en la acera y cuáles se pueden llevar a los centros del Condado de Union. La aplicación proporciona información actualizada tanto sobre los programas de reciclaje del Condado como sobre los locales. En “The Green Connection” (www.ucnj.org/green-connection) encontrará enlaces rápidos a todos los programas y actividades ambientales organizados por el condado de Union.

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July Dates Announced For Union County’s Free Recycling Program For Residents

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the 2026 seasonal recycling program will continue in July, featuring a variety of events designed to help residents recycle unwanted, expired, or hazardous items and to promote sustainable waste management practices in the community.

“We want residents to know that every celebration, barbecue, or beach day enjoyed this summer presents a new opportunity for them to responsibly recycle and care for their environment – we’re here to make it as easy and convenient to do so,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I encourage residents to review the dates, plan ahead, and take advantage of this free resource.”

Union County offers free mobile paper shredding events from March through October, giving residents a secure and convenient way to dispose of personal documents on-site. Events run from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., or until trucks reach capacity. Residents are encouraged to participate in the following July shredding event:

Thursday, July 9th: Rahway River Park (Service yard across from swimming pool), 3 Parkway Drive, Rahway

Union County’s paper shredding events are for sensitive and personal documents only, including legal, medical, and financial records. No businesses are allowed to participate. Junk mail, advertisements, magazines, and all other waste papers not considered sensitive or confidential should be recycled through a municipal recycling program.

Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other items prior to the event (staples are permitted). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program also continues in July, providing residents with various opportunities to responsibly recycle various metal items, including refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, and even air conditioners. The next scrap metal events of the season will take place on Thursday, July 2nd & Saturday, July 18th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at two convenient locations:

Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard
Rahway: Rahway River Park (service yard across from swimming pool), 3 Parkway Drive

Union County’s next Household Hazardous Waste event will take place on Saturday, August 8th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at Kean University’s Kean Hall Lot, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union. At these events, residents can bring a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling or disposal. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent bulbs, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint), medical sharps, and welding gas/oxygen cylinders will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry out latex paint at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, cat litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash.

All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only. Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunk.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycling/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community. The free Recycle Coach Mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up-to-date information on both countywide and local recycling programs. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

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El Condado De Union Ofrecerá Una Clase De Defensa Personal Este Mes De Julio Para Mujeres De 18 a 23 años Que Se Preparan Para Ingresar a La Universidad

A flyer advertising offering two free self-defense classes for women 18-23 on Wednesday, July 22nd and Wednesday, July 29th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, en colaboración con la Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Union, ofrecerá dos clases gratuitas de defensa personal para mujeres de entre 18 y 23 años. Estas se llevarán a cabo los miércoles 22 y 29 de julio, de 6:00 p. m. a 8:00 p. m., en la Academia de Policía John H. Stamler, ubicada en el 1776 de Raritan Road, en Scotch Plains.

“A medida que las jóvenes adultas se preparan para la universidad, pasantías, viajes y empleos de verano, es importante que se sientan preparadas y seguras al desenvolverse en nuevos entornos”, señaló el Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union, Joseph C. Bodek. “Estas clases están diseñadas para brindar habilidades prácticas de defensa personal, aumentar la conciencia situacional y ayudarles a sentirse empoderadas, tanto en el campus como en su vida cotidiana”.

El programa *Empower & Protect: College Bound Self-Defense Essentials for Women* (Empoderar y proteger: Fundamentos de defensa personal para mujeres que van a la universidad) busca que las jóvenes se sientan más seguras, alertas y preparadas para iniciar su vida universitaria. Dirigidas por profesionales experimentados de las fuerzas del orden, estas sesiones prácticas se centran en técnicas de defensa personal, conciencia situacional y estrategias de seguridad para situaciones cotidianas en el campus, durante viajes y en actividades sociales. Ya sea que te prepares para vivir fuera de casa por primera vez, busques aumentar tu confianza o simplemente quieras sentirte más segura en tu rutina diaria, estas clases te ofrecen habilidades y conocimientos valiosos que podrás aplicar dondequiera que vayas.

“Saber reconocer y responder ante situaciones potencialmente inseguras es una habilidad importante, especialmente para las jóvenes adultas que se preparan para la vida universitaria, los desplazamientos diarios, los viajes y una mayor independencia”, afirmó el Sheriff del Condado de Union, Peter Corvelli. “Nuestros instructores se enfocan en situaciones realistas y técnicas sencillas que ayudan a las participantes a reaccionar con rapidez y a sentirse más seguras en su vida cotidiana”.

El cupo es limitado y es necesario inscribirse. Ambas clases son idénticas e incluyen prácticas en pareja; por favor, inscríbete en una sola sesión y considera hacerlo junto a una amiga o un familiar. Se recomienda usar ropa cómoda para hacer ejercicio; no se permite el uso de calzado sobre las colchonetas, así que tenlo en cuenta al prepararte. Para participar en la parte práctica, las asistentes deberán firmar un formulario de exención de responsabilidad.

Para obtener más información o inscribirse, visite www.ucnj.org/women. Para comunicarse con Jennifer Erdos, de la Oficina de la Mujer del Condado de Union, por favor llame al 908-527-4216 o envíe un correo electrónico a Jerdos@ucnj.org.

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Union County to Offer Self-defense Class for College-bound Women Ages 18-23 This July

A flyer advertising two free self-defense classes for women 18-23 on Wednesday, July 22nd and Wednesday, July 29th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, will be offering two free self-defense classes for women 18-23 on Wednesday, July 22^nd and Wednesday, July 29^th from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the John H. Stamler Police Academy, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains.

“As young adults head off to college, internships, travel opportunities, and summer jobs, it’s important that they feel prepared and confident navigating new environments,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “These classes are designed to provide practical self-defense skills, increase situational awareness, and help them feel empowered both on campus and in everyday life.”

Empower & Protect: College Bound Self-Defense Essentials for Women is designed to help young women feel more confident, aware, and prepared as they head into college life. Led by experienced law enforcement professionals, these hands-on sessions focus on practical self-defense techniques, situational awareness, and safety strategies for everyday situations on campus, while traveling, and during social activities. Whether you’re preparing to live away from home for the first time, looking to boost your confidence, or simply want to feel more secure in your daily routine, these classes provide valuable skills and knowledge you can carry with you wherever you go.

“Knowing how to recognize and respond to potentially unsafe situations is an important skill, especially for young adults as they prepare for college life, commuting, travel, and greater independence” said Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli. “Our instructors focus on realistic situations and simple techniques that can help participants react quickly and feel more confident in their everyday lives.”

Space is limited, and registration is required. These classes, which involve partnered practice, are identical – please sign up for only one session, and consider registering with a friend or family member. Comfortable workout attire is recommended, and shoes will not be permitted on the mats, so please plan accordingly. To participate in the hands-on portion, attendees must complete a waiver.

For more information or to register, please visit www.ucnj.org/women. To contact Jennifer Erdos at the Union County Office on Women, please call at 908-527-4216 or email Jerdos@ucnj.org.

Public Info

Union County Supports New Initiative to Launch the Next Generation of Real Estate Professionals

Free Real Estate Licensing Program Creates Career Opportunities for Young Adults

Union County is partnering with community leaders and workforce development advocates to help connect young adults with a free opportunity to pursue careers in real estate through a new licensing program, designed to remove financial barriers and create pathways to professional success.

The initiative, led by The BLOC Foundation Founder Natasha Davis and Exodus Real Estate Academy Owner Samantha Lamptey, will provide eligible participants with free real estate pre-licensing education. The five-week virtual program is designed for young adults ages 18 to 21, including recent high school graduates, GED recipients, and college students interested in pursuing a career in real estate.

“This program is about creating access and opening doors,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek. “For many young people, the cost of professional training can be a significant obstacle. By connecting students with free educational opportunities and clear career pathways, we are helping them build skills, pursue meaningful careers, and invest in their future. Union County is proud to support initiatives that empower residents, strengthen our workforce, and create opportunities for the next generation.”

Participants must complete 75 hours of coursework to qualify for the New Jersey real estate licensing exam. While students are responsible for the state examination fee, the program covers the cost of the required coursework and training.

Classes will run from July 7 for five weeks and will be held virtually on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Registration is open through June 26. The program is open to eligible participants throughout New Jersey and aims to provide young adults with valuable professional skills and an opportunity to earn a state-recognized credential.

“As someone who teaches students in the trades every day, I’ve seen firsthand how access to opportunity can change the trajectory of a life,” said Natasha Davis, Founder of the BLOC Foundation. “Sponsoring 300 young adults to become licensed real estate agents is about more than a career; it’s creating pathways to entrepreneurship, wealth-building, and economic mobility. When we invest in our young people, we invest in stronger families, stronger communities, and a brighter future for all.”

“Exodus Real Estate Academy is committed to empowering and educating underserved and underprivileged individuals about real estate as a pathway to homeownership, entrepreneurship, career growth, and generational wealth,” said Samantha Lamptey, Founder of Exodus Real Estate Academy. “We believe that education and examples create opportunity and strengthen communities.”

To introduce the opportunity to prospective students and their families, an informational session will be held on June 22 at 6:00 p.m., in the Kean University STEM Building Auditorium, located at 1075 Morris Avenue in Union Township. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the program, licensing requirements, and career opportunities within the real estate industry.

“As a former Board of Education Commissioner, I met countless students who were talented, motivated, and ready to succeed but unsure of what came next after graduation,” said Union County Commissioner Stanley J. Neron. “Not every young person follows a traditional path, and opportunities like this can make all the difference. Natasha Davis and The BLOC Foundation recognized that need and created a program that removes barriers and provides a clear pathway into a professional field. I am proud to help support this initiative because every young person deserves the chance to pursue a meaningful career, build financial independence, and realize their full potential.”

The BLOC Foundation works to revitalize urban communities through affordable housing development, workforce training, and economic mobility programs, creating pathways for women, minorities, young adults, and underserved populations to build long-term stability and success. Founder Natasha Davis is a Licensed General Contractor who has devoted her time to creating a 100 percent, minority-owned real estate construction and investment firm—and through her work, has made homeownership and real estate investment opportunities accessible to historically marginalized and under-resourced individuals.

Exodus Real Estate Academy is dedicated to thoroughly preparing each student for success in the New Jersey real estate license examination through interactive discussion and exposure to real-world scenarios, emphasizing practical learning and aiming to prepare future referral agents, salespersons and brokers to face the challenges of the real estate industry. Samantha Lamptey is the Founder of Exodus Real Estate and Exodus Real Estate Academy, and Co-Founder of Exodus Development, Exodus Construction and Exodus Architectural Woodwork, all based in Short Hills, NJ. Driven by a passion for design, innovation, and community impact, she built the Exodus family of companies with her husband, Selassie Lamptey, to create opportunities through real estate, architecture, construction, development and architectural woodwork.

To register for the program, visit https://bit.ly/ucnjrealestateclass today. For additional information, please email Natasha Davis at natasha@theblocfoundation.org.

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Obras De Arte Inspiradoras De Los Artistas De Inroads to OpportunitiesYa en Exhibición en La Galería De Los Comisionados Del Condado De Union

La Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union se complace en anunciar que una nueva colección de obras de arte, creadas por estudiantes de Inroads to Opportunities, ya está en exhibición en la Galería de los Comisionados (Commissioners Gallery), ubicada en el sexto piso del Edificio Administrativo del Condado de Union, en el 10 de Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth. Los visitantes pueden ver la exposición de forma gratuita durante el horario de la galería: de lunes a viernes, de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m. La muestra permanecerá abierta hasta el 31 de julio de 2026.

“Los estudiantes de Inroads to Opportunities han realizado un trabajo extraordinario al preparar para nosotros una colección colorida e imaginativa que, sin duda, disfrutarán tanto los amantes del arte como los visitantes en general. El arte no conoce fronteras ni limitaciones, especialmente en nuestro condado, caracterizado por su diversidad única; nos enorgullece mostrar esto a través de la perspectiva de estos talentosos artistas”, señaló Joseph C. Bodek, Presidente de la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. “Animo a todos a aprovechar la oportunidad y visitar la exposición”.

Este programa artístico es posible gracias a una subvención HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands / Historia, Educación y Artes al Alcance de Miles) otorgada por la Junta de Comisionados del Condado de Union. Las subvenciones HEART sirven para fortalecer a las organizaciones sin fines de lucro, a los artistas y a los académicos del Condado, permitiéndoles desarrollar proyectos innovadores relacionados con las artes, las humanidades y la historia.

“A través de la subvención HEART, nos enorgullece seguir apoyando a organizaciones como Inroads to Opportunities en el desarrollo de programas de calidad que permiten a los residentes —de todas las edades, orígenes y capacidades— alcanzar su máximo potencial y disfrutar de una vida plena; una vida con fuertes raíces comunitarias y acceso a espacios creativos que les permitan ganar confianza, descubrir nuevos talentos y dejar su huella en la historia que estamos construyendo juntos”, afirmó la Ccomisionada Rebecca L. Williams, enlace con la Junta Asesora de Cultura y Patrimonio.

Inroads to Opportunities, una organización sin fines de lucro, ofrece un entorno donde las personas con discapacidad pueden desarrollarse y convertirse en individuos productivos y aptos para el empleo. La creación de obras de arte proporciona a los participantes una vía de expresión terapéutica y creativa. Los artistas comparten su talento interior utilizando una amplia variedad de medios, como acrílico, acuarela, crayón, pastel, tinta y lápiz. El centro inició este programa artístico en el 2003 y continúa cosechando grandes éxitos. La Oficina de Asuntos Culturales y Patrimoniales del Condado de Union, que forma parte del Departamento de Parques y Recreación, coordina las exposiciones que se presentan en la Galería de los Comisionados (Commissioners Gallery). Para obtener más información sobre este y otros programas y servicios relacionados con las artes y la historia en el Condado de Union, comuníquese con la oficina llamando al 908-558-2550 (los usuarios del servicio de retransmisión de NJ deben marcar el 711), enviando un correo electrónico a culturalinfo@ucnj.org o acudiendo personalmente a la dirección 633 Pearl Street, en Elizabeth.

Public Info

Inspiring Artwork From Inroads to Opportunities’ Artists Now on Display at Union County Commissioners Gallery

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that a new collection of artworks, created by students from Inroads to Opportunities, is now on display at the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. Visitors can see the exhibit for free during gallery hours, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The exhibit will be on display through July 31, 2026.

“Inroads to Opportunities students have done an amazing job in putting together for us a colorful and imaginative collection that art enthusiasts and visitors alike are sure to enjoy. Art knows no bounds or limitations, especially in our uniquely diverse county, and we are proud to showcase that through the lens of these talented artists,” Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. “I encourage everyone to take the opportunity and visit the exhibit.”

This art program is made possible by a HEART Grant (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) from the Union County Board of County Commissioners. HEART grants serve as a way to strengthen Union County’s non-profit organizations, artists and scholars so they can provide innovative projects related to the arts, humanities, and history.

“Through the HEART grant, we are proud to continue supporting organizations like Inroads to Opportunities in developing quality programming that enables residents of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to reach their greatest potential and enjoy a fulfilling life – one with strong community roots and with access to creative outlets that allow them to build confidence, discover new talents, and make their mark in the history we are shaping together,” said Commissioner Rebecca L.Williams, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board.

Inroads to Opportunities, a not-for-profit organization, provides an environment where individuals with disabilities can develop and become productive and employable. Making works of art provides a therapeutic and creative outlet for the participants. The artists share their inner talents using a wide range of media, such as acrylic, watercolor, crayon, pastel, pen, and pencil. The center started this art program in 2003 and continues to achieve great success.

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery. For further information about this and other programs and services related to the arts and history in Union County, please contact the Office by telephone at 908-558-2550 (NJ relay users dial 711), email at culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or in person at 633 Pearl Street in Elizabeth.

spanish-releases

Los «Tree Stewards» Llegan a Más De 2,750 Estudiantes Del Condado De Union A Través De UN Programa De Educación Ambiental

The Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County’s 4-H Master Tree Stewards recently celebrated a successful season of environmental education, reaching more than 2,750 fourth-grade students across Union County during the winter and spring of 2026.

The Master Tree Steward program is made up of dedicated volunteers who receive specialized training through Rutgers Cooperative Extension and then bring their knowledge directly into local classrooms. Throughout the school year, Tree Stewards presented engaging, one-hour lessons designed to teach students about the importance of trees, environmental stewardship, and the role trees play in maintaining healthy communities.

“The commitment of our Master Tree Stewards helps inspire the next generation to appreciate and care for the environment around them,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph Bodek. “By bringing these lessons into classrooms throughout Union County, our volunteers are helping students develop a deeper understanding of the natural world and the importance of protecting it.”

The program provides fourth-grade students with hands-on learning opportunities that connect classroom education with real-world environmental issues, encouraging curiosity and fostering a greater appreciation for local natural resources.

Individuals interested in becoming a Master Tree Steward are encouraged to apply for the next training program, which begins in September. Volunteers receive comprehensive training and have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by educating young people throughout Union County.

For more information about the Master Tree Steward Program or volunteer opportunities, contact 4-H Agent James Nichnadowicz at jnichnadowicz@ucnj.org.