Jim Bowman: At the Helm of Think Big’s Growth in New Jersey

When Jim Bowman sold his company in 2019, he knew that he wanted to do something good during his retirement. He determined that the best way to accomplish this would be to use the funds from the sale to give back to the community in a way that would be business centric. While there are thousands of worthy nonprofit organizations, Jim was determined to focus on having a strong, positive impact on the next generation, helping them with a hands-on approach, encouraging them to take ownership of their lives and prepare for their future careers.

Timing is everything!
Just as Jim began the process of identifying an organization that shared his goals, he learned that his friend Tony DiBenedetto was launching Think Big for Kids. Although Tony was based in Florida, Jim offered to initiate and fund a Think Big region in New Jersey. Tony enthusiastically welcomed him as an integral part of the new venture!

Jim immediately reached out to his business network, including his Vistage colleagues, and also approached the board members at the Association for Corporate Growth NJ (ACG NJ), who listened to Jim’s message. They agreed to help – as they understood and appreciated the value that Think Big could bring to the workforce of the future.

The mission statement says it all.
“Think Big for Kids is a national nonprofit with a mission to break the cycle of poverty among teens and young adults by preparing them to excel in today’s workforce.” But for this organization and its founding leaders, the mission is so much more than just talk!

By introducing career opportunities through collaborative efforts with New Jersey’s Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA, and iLearn Schools, Think Big is working to achieve its purpose in the local communities – helping students identify their goals – whether that’s college, trade school, or entering the workforce after graduation.

No matter what path is best for the students, Think Big equips them with the direction and resources needed to rise above challenging circumstances and achieve long‑term success.

Success is a great motivator when it changes lives.
As Think Big New Jersey has grown, it has developed into a powerful presence bringing hope and opportunities to areas where those attributes are most needed. The organization, and the kids it targets, have flourished over the years based on a local platform that starts at the grass roots level.

Think Big volunteers and staff share a wide range of information, tools, and resources, enabling the kids to explore their full potential while finding the best path out of poverty. The number of events and programs have greatly expanded over the least five years, while their scholarships have grown as well. While beginning with one scholarship in their first year, Think Big New Jersey proudly awarded twelve scholarships to deserving students in 2026.

Jim continues his efforts to influence and motivate the kids, drawing his own inspiration from their success stories. Recognizing that New Jersey reports one of the highest poverty rates in the country, Jim feels a deeply personal responsibility to affect change when he can. Unfortunately, kids across the state and across all economic levels, need programming and career guidance.

This reality is seen, for example, in the significant shortages New Jersey faces in filing positions in the trades. But it is in the poorest neighborhoods where the need is greatest. This is where Think Big is impressive – providing mentoring, college and trade school scholarships, internships, apprenticeships, and job opportunities – where so few exist.

Local partners contribute.
Think Big partners with statewide businesses of all types and sizes.  From global companies like Johnson & Johnson to local companies like Mack Boring, corporate leaders are eager to participate in the field trips and Career Showcases. In addition, Think Big has formed essential partnerships with educational institutions such as Stevens Institute, Felician University and Lincoln Tech trade programs.

How you can help
Jim Bowman has supported Think Big by investing financially, emotionally and professionally. But everyone can find their on way to contribute to an organization that changes lives every day, making impossible situations seem possible – as tomorrow’s teens and young adults are able to pursue an endless list of career choices.

Through its community interactions and dynamic hands-on resources and relevant programs, Think Big attracts young people with the drive and potential to excel.  Financial support becomes a critical catalyst in helping them pursue their goals and realize their aspirations.

Organizations and individuals who choose to support this effort are essential to their success.

Here’s what you can do today:

1. Support scholarships – businesses and individuals can donate to fund a scholarship. The money contributed will be specially earmarked for scholarship use only and each donor will remain connected to the scholarship recipient’s progress and successes. There is truly no better reward than seeing your investment pay off in the bright future of  the Think Big kids and the smiles on all the faces on Graduation Day.

2. Attend a Career Showcase and share important professional and personal skills and expertise.

3. Host a field trip exposing kids to a variety of exciting careers at your company.

4. Mentor a student, offering insights and suggestions that can provide a true competitive advantage in the years ahead.

Be a role model.

As Jim quickly learned through his personal dedication to Think Big for Kids, each volunteer has the chance to serve as an additional role model for the kids who grow up in underserved communities. Based just on their zip code, many of today’s young people may not be consistently exposed to the resources they will require to fulfill their own destiny.

Whether you want to make a donation, support a scholarship, volunteer your time, or are interested in learning more about the organization, please email jenna.teschel@thinkbigforkids.org