Volunteer spotlight: Sonja Clark

Name: Sonja Clark

Volunteer organization and for how long?

Over the last 10 years, Sonja has volunteered at many organizations, including Spectrum for Living, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Habitat For Humanity, Bergen Family Center and Childrens’ Aid and Family Services.

Most recently, Sonja has been involved with the Volunteer Center of Bergen County’s Business Volunteer Council (BVC), where she has been an active participant in their initiatives which significantly impact the lives of children and families, especially in the areas of hunger, health and education.

Joined the Volunteer Center’s Board of Directors in 2008.

Recent work with the organization?

As an active member of  the BVC for the past six years, Sonja has coordinated the collection and distribution of books for low income children and read to classes through the "Books in a Bag" initiative, collected school supplies for children through the "Tools for Schools" initiative, collected kid-friendly  food during the summer food drive, "Brown Bag Buddies", and participated in the Volunteer Center’s "All Wrapped Up" Holiday gift drive for needy families.

Why did you become a volunteer?

"I volunteer because I love helping others. It is my Christian duty to help those in need or less fortunate.  The position I have at United Water in Community Relations allows me to do what I love to do. I also meet a lot of people and get a great deal of satisfaction helping the community."

What has been the best part of being a volunteer?

"Actually seeing first hand how your help has made a difference in the lives of others.  It’s also great to network with people from other organizations through the BVC, to share ideas and to come together to do wonderful things for people in the community."