ROI-NJ Article: How a strategic partnership is transforming youth careers and future opportunities

“I have been involved with Think Big for Kids since its inception,” noted Bowman, “and I passionately support its commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty among teens and young adults by providing them with the resources and information they need to pursue a wide range of fulfilling careers. As I thought about it, I realized that the most effective way to accomplish our mission would be to turn to the Association for Corporate Growth NJ – whose members represent many of the leaders of our state’s business community.”

The impetus for building a formal alliance between these entities was reinforced by the close ties that already existed between ACGNJ, Think Big for Kids and ROI-NJ. The open lines of communication between the leadership, the shared values, and the consistent desire to make a significant impact on the community from all three parties made this decision a ‘no brainer.’

And just like that, a unique partnership was born!

Originally influenced by the vision of Mark Kuehn, Founder and Chair of the Board of the New Jersey chapter of the Association for Corporate Growth, this exciting concept is based on the formal collaboration of the business community, the business media and a nonprofit organization – with a common goal of changing lives. As Mark points out, “When I attended a regional Think Big event, I was inspired by the idea of a business group ‘adopting’ a nonprofit organization to create a powerful win-win situation for all. We have started the process at the statewide level but I believe it could grow into a national platform.”

Anthony Russo, President of the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ) and Publisher and CEO of Commerce Magazine, also played a role in nurturing the early concept of creating a partnership between the business community and Think Big. “At CIANJ we were glad to invite the two organizations to have a presence at our events. We wanted to give them exposure to business decision makers, enabling them to get the word out on how Think Big introduces kids to a wide variety of job options.”

How does this distinctive model add value for the kids, the companies, and the community?

“For Think Big to have a positive impact on our underserved youth, we needed to forge a meaningful connection between the business community and the kids who will comprise the workforce of the future. We knew that a partnership such as this would aid Think Big in achieving its objective of giving kids a chance to explore fulfilling careers,” explained Mike Corridon, President of the ACG Board of Directors.

ACG NJ was the right choice as a partner for Think Big, given its focus on helping middle-market companies drive growth. The organization’s members and their deep connections with business owners in the tri-state area have proven to be an invaluable resource for the kids. ACG NJ members have contributed to enhancing awareness, sponsoring career workshops, serving as mentors, participating in the selection of scholarship winners, seeking out internship opportunities for career placement, and engaging in fundraising. Along with the support of ROI-NJ, the close bond between these three entities has had a profound effect on the success of Think Big as well as on the state’s Boys and Girls Clubs and other youth-oriented organizations.

“At ROI-NJ we are proud to help amplify the voices of Think Big for Kids and the Association for Corporate Growth NJ. We are glad to have the opportunity to participate in this unique model as we draw on our media network to promote and applaud the teamwork that has evolved between us,” added Tom Hughes, CEO and Publisher of ROI- NJ.

The formal partnership between ACG NJ, Think Big for Kids and ROI-NJ is serving as a cutting-edge blueprint for future alliances, laying the groundwork for a new approach to achieving value through cooperation.

Check out the article here, written by Sally Glick – roi-nj