Fundraising Dinner
On September 25th, the (re)insurance industry continued their support of Covenant House New Jersey via a fundraising dinner. The event raised roughly $250,000 to support our work with 19 companies contributing to the success of the event. The industry has been long time supporters of our work. Those efforts have been led by CHNJ Board members Eric Andersen (Aon), John Berger (Co/Action Specialty Insurance), Kean Driscoll (Dellwood Group) and Paul McKeon (Trans Re).
Renee’s Story
During the event, attendees heard from a former youth at CHNJ and her remarkable story. Renee* is now a 33-year-old from Jersey City, who has been part of the Covenant House community for 13 years, overcoming immense challenges along the way. Growing up with an absent father and a mother struggling with addiction, Renee moved through foster homes before becoming the primary caregiver for her nieces at age 14. Despite facing homelessness and even suffering a mild stroke from stress, she remained determined to pursue education, eventually graduating from Hudson Community College and earning a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology after an 11-year journey. Covenant House supported her at critical moments, helping her secure housing, manage her finances, and continue her studies. Today, Renee is a dedicated Pre-K teacher, has traveled to several countries. She is also preparing to pursue her Master’s degree in Child Advocacy. She credits the love and support of the Covenant House community for helping her achieve her goals and dreams. You can read her complete story here.
Board Members
Eric, Kean and Paul were co-chairs of this successful event which included Eric interviewing former Mets pitching star Al Leiter. The interview focused on the factors in his life that were essential to his success including goal setting, hard work, being a team player, and the importance of strong positive mentors. All topics that also are of key importance to the youth we serve.
Eric Andersen (Aon) and his wife Pam have been active supporters of our work since 1992! In stepping up to co-chair the event, Eric noted, “As a longtime supporter and board member of CHNJ, I’ve seen first-hand how we are making a difference in the lives of young people facing homelessness right here in NJ. I’m a big believer in the organization and when asked to do more to help, I was happy to engage others in the industry to join me in supporting CHNJ and the great work we do.”
Paul McKeon (Trans Re) has supported us on multiple levels over the years and commented, “Securing table sponsorships for our first ever (Re)insurance Dinner has been a labor of love. Every table directly impacts the lives of our youth and represents a chance for a young person to find safety, support, and a brighter future at Covenant House. I’m proud of the members of my industry who rallied around this cause to make a real difference.”
A big thank you to Eric, Kean and Paul for hosting this first ever industry event and making it so successful. Also a big thank you to the 19 companies who sponsored the event.
Sleep Out (Re)insurance Edition Being Held on October 18th
And more support is coming our way from the industry on October 18. For the 12th year, Sleep Out (Re)insurance Edition is being held. So far 74 participants from 19 organizations have already raised $155,000 towards the $300,000 goal. In the previous 11 years, the industry has raised over $3 million through Sleep Out (Re)insurance Edition.
To learn more about how your company can support CHNJ, contact Mary Lonergan at mlonergan@covenanthouse.org.
* Renee’s story is real, but her name and likeness have been changed to protect her identity.
