Middlesex Volunteer Fair 2025: Meet Your Local Heroes
Middlesex Borough Cultural & Arts Committee
The Cultural and Arts Committee of the Borough of Middlesex is tasked with fostering cultural, historic, and artistic engagement within the community. Its responsibilities include promoting and supporting a variety of artistic endeavors, such as visual arts (sculpture, painting, photography, architecture, etc.), literary arts (writing, poetry, drama), performing arts (music, dance, theater), and the collection and display of art objects. Additionally, the Committee may pursue other activities that enhance creativity and culture within the borough.
The Committee plays an advisory role to the Mayor and Borough Council, providing recommendations on how to encourage local creative talent and recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to the cultural and historical development of Middlesex, regardless of their artistic background.
Encouraging collaboration, the Committee is open to working with external partners, such as the Middlesex Borough Department of Recreation, and is empowered to seek expertise and support from various sources. Furthermore, the Committee is authorized to apply for grants and contributions from both public and private entities to fund its initiatives, though any expenditure of Borough funds requires specific Council approval. The Mayor may, however, approve staff support for grant applications and publicity efforts.
Lights, Camera, Action: The Middlesex Borough Film Commission
Strategically located in the heart of central New Jersey the MBFC serves as a dynamic gateway to our borough's rich potential as a location for film, television, and media production. With our diverse landscapes, ranging from vibrant urban settings to picturesque suburban charm, Middlesex Borough offers an unparalleled backdrop for a wide array of projects, from high-budget feature films to compelling independent productions and commercials.
The MBFC is committed to providing filmmakers and production companies with a seamless and comprehensive suite of services, including expert location services, streamlined permitting process and proactive coordination with local authorities and the community. The MBFC team of experienced professionals works closely with production companies to ensure that every logistical aspect of their filmmaking process runs smoothly, fostering an efficient and cost-effective experience.
By showcasing the borough's aesthetic versatility the MBFC not only enhances the creative potential of each project but also drives significant economic growth. The MBFC encourages the use of local businesses, talent, and resources, providing a unique opportunity to engage the community while maximizing production value and appeal.
The MBFC is committed to supporting the film industry, promoting the borough’s assets, and creating lasting partnerships involving our community and the production companies that have recently made NJ their new home. MBFC stands as a collaborator for filmmakers seeking the type of dynamic and welcoming environment that can only be found within our borough and enhance their efforts by being ready to assist in making their vision a reality.
Join the Middlesex Borough Rescue Squad!
We are looking for dedicated Volunteers to join our Team. Whether you're an experienced EMT or just starting out, we welcome you to be part of our mission to save lives and serve Middlesex, NJ. See you at the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair, May 3 from 10 am through 3 pm. Middlesex Borough Community Room and Big Tent on the Library Grounds.
You can Contact us at info@middlesexrescue.com or 732.469.4909.
JOHN W. LUPU MEMORIAL POST 306, PROUD CHAPTER OF THE AMERICAN LEGION
Located at 707 Legion Place, Middlesex, NJ, the John W. Lupu Memorial Post 306 is a proud chapter of the American Legion, a patriotic veterans' organization chartered by Congress in 1919. Named in honor of Sergeant John W. Lupu, a Middlesex native and Vietnam War hero, the post is dedicated to serving veterans, active service members, and the local community.
Post 306 brings together veterans from all branches of the military, fostering camaraderie and mutual support. The organization actively engages in community service, youth programs, and fundraising events, embodying the Legion's mission of "Veterans Strengthening America."
However, the success of this mission relies on people like you! Post 306 is always seeking new members—veterans, active duty service members, and anyone passionate about giving back to the community. Whether you want to share your time, skills, or talents, volunteers are essential to supporting their programs and activities.
Monthly membership meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 7 PM, with executive and finance meetings on the fourth Monday. For more information, or to find out how you can get involved, visit their official website or contact them at (732) 356-9699 or Post306nj@gmail.com.
Strengthen Community Bonds: The Middlesex Borough Elks Lodge #1488
Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair, themed "Celebrating Community Connections," takes place on May 3, 2025, at the Middlesex Borough Library Community Room, and extending to the Big Tent on the Library Grounds. The event runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and aims to highlight the vital contributions of volunteer groups in the community.
Among the participants, the Middlesex Boro Elks Lodge #1488 stands out as a dedicated volunteer group. Known for their commitment to serving others, the Elks will host a booth at the fair, showcasing their impactful initiatives and inviting attendees to join their mission. Visitors can learn about the ways this organization strengthens community bonds and supports various causes, making Middlesex Borough a thriving, connected place to live.
Be sure to stop by the Elks booth at the fair, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate volunteerism and explore how you can get involved in building a brighter future for the community!
middlesex borough municipal alliance: under the governor’s council on substance use disorder (gcsud)
The purpose and function of the “GCSUD”
As Volunteers we are part of a network of members, representatives and leaders of local communities, who care and who are dedicated to promoting and supporting increased awareness related to Substance Use and Disorder for the purpose of aiding in the of reduction, prevention of Substance Use and Disorder and crime.
The Middlesex Borough Municipal Alliance organizes and coordinates efforts which involve local schools, law enforcement, Clergy, Governing Body, businesses, community groups Health and Human Service agencies, other representatives that educate the youth and general public to the dangers of substance use disorder.
The Alliance also assists in acquiring funds for Alliance programs to support such Municipal programs and events as:
In-school programs and speakers; outreach programs such as partnering with the Police Department on National Night Out; Mini Police Academy; Middlesex Borough Annual Community Day; and the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair. Visit the Alliance Booth at the Volunteer Fair on May 3 between 10am and 3 pm at the Middlesex Borough Library. Can’t wait to see you!
Come join us at one of our meetings. We meet 5 times during the school year on the second Wednesday of each designated month at the Middlesex High School Library/Multi-Media Room from 7 pm to 8 pm.
Sherley Penrose - ALLIANCE CHAIR
Lon Balunis - Health and Welfare/Volunteer Fair Chair 908 812 9273
Cynthia A. Chomen -ALLIANCE Secretary Coordinator Email chomen2448@yahoo.com 732 356 8666
REMEMBER – Be Smart – Don’t Start
Substance Use Can: Become Addictive; Mess Up your mind and body; hurt others Kill You.
Don’t Ruin Your Future or Someone Else’s
STOP - SAY - NO! - You are Not Alone
VOLUNTEER, Every Day is a New Day to Make a Difference, Be a Part of a Positive Change in Your Community!
traditions of service through volunteer partnerships: Middlesex Borough Police Department
The mission of the Middlesex Borough Police Department is to safeguard life and property, to preserve the peace, to enforce the law fairly and impartially, and to serve the public with honesty, integrity and professionalism. To accomplish our mission, we are committed to working in partnership with community members to reduce crime, to maintain order and to identify and solve problems to improve the quality of life in our community. We will accomplish our mission with compassion and sensitivity, and with respect for individual rights, human dignity and community values. At every hour of every day, the women and men of the Middlesex Borough Police Department answer the call to service. Alongside the members of numerous volunteer organizations, the police officers pursue their mission of protection and service with the proud traditions of volunteerism. With the core values of Service, Integrity, Honor, Strength, and Unity, the police department is guided forward in its unwavering pursuit of peace and justice. We will continue to accomplish those missions alongside organizations such as:
Borough Boards & Committees, Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts, Veterans of the John W. Lupu Post 306 American Legion, Religious Groups/Organizations, REPLENISH Middlesex County, Middlesex Municipal Drug Alliance Committee, Middlesex Borough Fire Department, Middlesex Borough Fire Police, Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management, Middlesex Borough Rescue Task Force, Middlesex Borough Rescue Squad, Middlesex Borough Senior and Disabled Service & Recreation Department, Middlesex/Dunellen Domestic Violence Response Team and the Middlesex Elks Lodge BPOE #1488 to name a few.
We recognize that the need for volunteers is crucial and support the Borough of Middlesex and the Office of Emergency Management in their efforts to bring information to our community members about the impact and contributions they can make by becoming a volunteer!
We look forward to discussing the different ways in which volunteers are an integral part of our Police Department’s success when serving our community at the Volunteer Fair on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 at the Middlesex Public Library!
beat the heat this summer: Middlesex Community pool
Looking for a fun way to beat the heat this summer that is close to home? Look no further, joining the Middlesex Pool is just the way to do it!
Members have access to all three of our pools. Our main pool, which ranges from 3 feet to 12 feet deep, has a water slide and diving board, while our lap pool is ideal for getting that workout in. We even have early morning lap pool hours of 6am-9am for those early risers. Don't worry, little ones are not left out. We also have a kiddie pool that has a zero entry and goes to two and half feet deep, perfect for babies and toddlers. It boasts fun features that include ground sprays, fish dump buckets, an interactive on/off waterfall, and a fun kid sized “frog” sliding board!
All summer long we have a variety of activities that are offered. Swim lessons for both adults and children, and Aqua Zumba are available for an additional fee. But don't worry- Family fun day is no additional charge. If you have a child who loves to swim, look into having them join our competitive swimming team.
Our pool opens on Memorial Day Weekend, including Monday (May 24-26). We are open weekends only starting Memorial Day weekend. We are then open seven (7) days a week starting June 26 through Labor Day weekend, including Monday September 1, 2025. The pool on Labor Day will be open from 11:00 am to 7:00pm.
Secure our best rates by submitting your Community Pool Application by April 15. Registration for Middlesex Borough residents started on March 1, 2025. Registration for Non-Residents begins May 1, 2025. Early Bird discount for Non-Residents from May 1st to May 15th.
Hours of Operation:
The pool is open from 12 Noon to 8 pm.
Attractions
Main Pool with Water Slide & Diving Board
Kids Wading pool - a zero entry to 2.5-foot-deep pool. Features include ground sprays, fish dump buckets, an interactive on/off waterfall, and a fun kid sized “frog” sliding board
Lap Pool
Snack Bar with food to purchase, bring your own food, or have food delivered from your favorite restaurant.
Celebrate Birthday Parties and other parties
Activities
Child and Adult Swim Lessons for a nominal fee
Aqua Zumba
Swim Team
Early morning lap swimming 6:00 am to 9:00 am.
Visit our online registration at: Middlesex Community Pool Online Registration
Link to our paper application: Middlesex Community Pool Paper Application
Link to more information about the pool: Middlesex Community Pool
Meet you at the Middlesex Volunteer Fair Booth on May 3rd from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Or check us out on: May 17, 2025, at our Open House from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with a rain date of May 18, 2025, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
self-care pantry initiative: Middlesex Girl Scout Junior Group
The Middlesex Girl Scout Junior Group is taking a significant step toward addressing a vital community need with their latest project: a Self-Care Pantry. Co-leaders of the group have announced plans to install a new pantry dedicated to collecting and distributing essential self-care items for those in need.
This initiative aims to provide a sustainable solution to a growing concern in the community. The pantry will be located near the existing mini food pantry, near the Middlesex Borough Library, creating a convenient hub for residents to access both food and self-care essentials. Items such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, soap, shampoo, and lotion will be available for individuals and families who are struggling. These are small items but can make a significant difference in someone’s sense of wellbeing.
The project is set to launch in the spring of 2025, with the assistance of the Department of Public Works (DPW) for the installation. The Girl Scouts are calling on the community to support this effort by donating self-care items to stock the pantry. This initiative not only addresses an immediate need but also fosters a spirit of giving and community support.
By creating this self-care pantry, the Middlesex Girl Scout Junior Group is demonstrating the power of young leaders to make a lasting impact. Their dedication to identifying a problem and implementing a sustainable solution is an inspiring example of community service in action.
For those interested in contributing to this meaningful project, donations of self-care items can be dropped off at the Volunteer Fair on May 3, 2025 at Middlesex Borough Library. Once the pantry is open, community members are invited to give what they can and take what they need. Together, we can ensure that everyone in our community has access to self-care essentials.
keeping our community safe: Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management
The Middlesex Borough Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is dedicated to community safety through disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. This all-volunteer organization works with local agencies and residents to protect lives and property.
Join Us at the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair! Visit our booth at the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair on May 3, 2025, from 10 AM to 3 PM at the Community Library Room. Learn about our mission, volunteer opportunities, and how you can stay prepared. While you are here, pick up your Youngster’s “Prepare with Pedro” Disaster Preparedness Activity Book and Crayola Crayons.
Get Involved: The OEM welcomes volunteers to assist with emergency services and participate in community events. Middlesex Borough High School Students can join the OEM Cadet Program to gain valuable skills in emergency preparedness.
Stay Prepared: Residents are encouraged to create family emergency plans and prepare disaster supply kits to minimize the impact of emergencies.
For more information on volunteering, joining the Cadet Program, or our presence at the Volunteer Fair, contact bbenson@middlesexboro-nj.gov.
go green with the green team: The middlesex borough environmental commission
The All-Volunteer Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission is dedicated to helping its residents with all things related to conservation and sustainability. The Commission believes that by educating and engaging our Community we can work together to adopt eco-friendly practices.
When a community comes together, it’s a powerful and uplifting experience. Our Middlesex Borough Fair is a celebration of it-people connecting, collaborating, and making a difference for the greater good. We are looking forward to meeting you at the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair on May 3, 2025, between 10 am and 3pm at the Middlesex Borough Library and Grounds to learn eco-friendly habits to adopt at home and beyond.
Whether you are passionate about nature, eager to give back or simply looking for a way to connect with the Community, we’d love to have you on board as a Volunteer. Continue to follow The Middlesex Borough Environmental Commission and their upcoming programs and events here or email your questions to - middlesexec@gmail.com.
Featured Events:
Got Sneakers Campaign
Ongoing
Collection site: Borough Library“What’s The Rush”
April 7 at 7pm
Library Community RoomEarth Day Clean Up
April 12 from 9am - 11am
Victor Crowell Park“The Nature of Oaks” Video Presentation
April 21 at 6pm
Library Community RoomTree Nursery - Tree Planting Day
April 26 from 9am - 12pm
Tree Nursery on Rock Lane“Restoring Insects” Video Presentation
May 5 at 7pm
Library Community RoomMountainview Park Clean Up
May 5 & 10 from 9:30am - 11:30pm
Mountainview ParkLight Pollution Program
May 31 at 2pm
Library Community RoomInvasive Species Program
June 14 at 2pm
Library Community Room
Meet Your Local Heroes: The Volunteers of the Middlesex Fire Department
The Middlesex Fire Department responded to 468 calls for service in 2024. Did you know Middlesex Borough has no paid firefighters? Every one of our 59 members are “Volunteers” . Our members donate their time to serve their community. Just a few benefits of joining the Middlesex Fire Department are no cost to you for State & Federal training, department issued gear, & uniforms. We also offer LOSAP (Length of Service Awards Program) which is a retirement account for eligible volunteers. If you meet our department requirements you will receive a stipend in your account annually that can be withdrawn upon retirement. The FD budget committee is also in negotiations with the borough for a response per emergency call stipend for all eligible volunteers that would also be awarded annually.
Volunteering as a firefighter is not just about putting out fires; it's about being there for people in their most vulnerable moments. It's about providing support, comfort, and a sense of security during times of crisis.
The chance to help others, to be part of a dedicated team, and to face challenges head-on is a very rewarding experience. Many of our current and past members have also pursued one of the emergency services as a career because of their experience as a Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department, by becoming a 911 Dispatcher, Police Officer, Paid Career Firefighter, EMT, or Paramedic.
Come join our members at the Volunteer Fair on May 3, 2025, between 10am and 3 pm at the Middlesex Borough Library to learn how you can get involved.
See the American Red Cross in Action
Visit our Booth at the Middlesex Borough Volunteer Fair May 3, 2025 and learn “Hands Only” CPR; pick up disaster preparedness and recruiting materials while signing sign up for smoke detector installations.