On Thursday, November 5, 2015, two members of the NJ ASSE Chapter participated in the annual USACE Professional Organizations Day at the District Headquarters at 26 Federal Plaza in NYC.   USACE safety professional Richard Dabal, CHMM, REP, organized the annual Professional Organization Day activities, and the vendors, which is provided for USACE employees to allow them to become more aware if local professional organizations, like ASSE, which offer both professional development opportunities and recognized certifications to their members. Mr. Dabal was very pleased that NJASSE participated in the annual information fair and commented on the numerous handouts that were available on careers in occupational safety and health to the attendees. “We were delighted that the NJASSE Chapter took the time cross the river and join us for this very important event for our employees.”  “Thank you for your contributions to its success.” He added.   Attendees were USACE employees who were reviewing and considering various career options that were supported by USACE.  Board members Louise Vallee, CSP, CIH, CPE and Jack Fearing, CPEA, represented our Chapter, distributing ASSE literature and discussing careers in occupational safety and health with many of the USACE attendees. Their active networking allowed the Chapter to continue to build on our relationship with the District Office.

On Thursday, December 17, 2015, NJ ASSE hosted our annual Past Presidents Dinner.   Our chapter was formed in 1925 and each year we continue our tradition of going back and recognizing the irreplaceable contributions that each of our Past Presidents has made to the Chapter and the ASSE Society.  It was inspiring for new and old members alike to hear heartwarming stories about leadership, friendships, and mentorships that made our past presidents and our chapter successful.  Our first female president, Joann West and our past presidents commented on how ASSE was important to their lives and careers and how new members (such as in our newly formed student chapter) can benefit both personally and professionally from becoming involved.   Attendees brought toys for our annual toys for tots drive and we also purchased bear hugs for the holidays as we donated all of these to make the holidays for local children a little brighter.  We had a special performance from comedian Mike Marino who kept everyone smiling.  Thank you to our president John Kraynanski, for hosting a lovely update of our accomplishments in 2015 and thank you to our 50 attendees for an evening that will not soon be forgotten.

This Holiday season NJ ASSE has partnered up with Bergen County Habitat for Humanity (HFH).  Groups of ASSE members and their families donated their time to help wrap holiday gifts at the Bergen Town Center and the Riverside Square Mall to raise money for the 501c3 local nonprofit organization. Habitat for Humanity of Bergen County was established in 1994 as an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International.  They are in need of sponsors, donors, volunteers and community partners to help contribute and create opportunities for local families to thrive. Additionally, NJ ASSE has made a $500 donation to help support the amazing work Habitat for Humanity is doing in New Jersey.  Thank you to all who participated! We hope to continue to support HFH in future projects and partnerships.