Community service is important to all of us at Next Level Performance. Everything we do is grounded in our CARES values and that S for Service extends to our neighbors in need. In addition to our annual HOPE Week initiative, we contribute in many ways, year round.

Did you know that in New Jersey over 630,000 children are living in low income families? New Jersey has the fifth highest cost of living in the country, leaving many parents unable to provide for the basic needs of their children. Amazingly, over 50% of children in these households have at least one working parent, but the income just is not sufficient in our expensive state. The Community Food Bank of New Jersey is dedicated to helping local families fill the gap by providing myriad services, including weekend snack packs and summer meals for kids who might go hungry when not receiving school lunches.  

Next Level is honored to sponsor a Kids Café in partnership with the Community Food Bank. This daily after school program provides nutritious food and recreation for kids who are food insecure throughout New Jersey.

Recently, we participated in the third annual Women Fighting Hunger fundraising luncheon for the Community Food Bank, where over $244,000 was raised to help families in need. Tom Colicchio, Top Chef judge and food accessibility advocate, was the guest speaker. During the event, guests assembled 1,165 sanitary packs for girls as part of the organizations Hygiene Initiative, as many products are not provided by traditional food banks and are not covered by the governmental Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

I am the mother of a 16-year old. Sometimes I wish I could do more for her, but the fact is she has a home abundant with the things she needs. My work at Next Level is part of providing for her. It means a lot to me that our work here also provides for other children, whose parents may not have as much opportunity.

As one of our company principals reminds us, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” I’m glad community service is part of our core philosophy.