Manasquan Bank Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Catherine Franzoni recently presented a grant to Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey (CSPNJ) at the bank’s quarterly Charitable Foundation Grant breakfast. The grant recognizes CSPNJ’s work in aligning with the foundation’s values of education, social and civic services, health and wellness, recreation, and culture and arts. Anne Smullen Thieling, CSPNJ’s chief operations officer, attended the event alongside over 40 other not-for-profit executives from the Jersey Shore.
“It’s inspiring to see how each organization is creating meaningful change in our communities,” Manasquan Bank shared in a LinkedIn post following the event. “We’re deeply grateful for these passionate advocates and the opportunity to support their vital work.”
The $5,000 cash award is designated for a much-needed upgrade to the Better Life community wellness center in Essex County. The funds will be used to create a more welcoming and updated atmosphere for the center’s members.
“Our members at Better Life are the reason that the center feels like a home away from home for all who attend,” Smullen Thieling said. “We are so grateful to be able to continue cultivating the feeling of safety and belongingness at the center with the funded environmental enhancements. We know that one’s environment plays a great part in their ability to manage wellness, and this project will help support sustainable wellness and recovery for all who use the property.”
The Better Life CWC has experienced a significant increase in new members aged 18-30, with a 39% increase in 2023 and a 76% increase in 2024. The center serves an average of 115 Essex County residents daily, providing services for wellness, recovery, housing, education, and more.
