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First she went through all the pamphlets and booklets at library in Hackensack, tossing the outdated ones. Then she called publishers for new material. But the 17-year-old dynamo was just getting warmed up.
“Elena also instituted a more organized way of finding materials and information by topics, such as types of cancer, different treatment options, etc.,” said Lenore Guido, the CEO of Gilda’s Club.
“During her free time she has also been contacting different publishers to get various books donated to Gilda’s Club and has bookshelves donated to store them.”
The Westwood High School senior from Washington Township wasn’t finished, though.
“In order to make the grand re-opening a success, Elena has also contacted government officials and has had food and beverages donated from different local restaurants that are eager to help support Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey,” Guido said.
For her work with the nonprofit organization, Elena will receive a Girl Scout Gold Award.
“Elena has done a beautiful job,” Guido said, “and we are very thankful to her for taking this project on….Our library is a valuable resource for our members, volunteers, and staff and also for the community at large.”
For her part, Elena says: “I am trying to bring awareness to this amazing organization so they can continue to serve those in our local community who are dealing with cancer.”
Gilda’s Club Northern New Jersey is a place where men, women, and children with cancer — together with their families and friends — can join with others to build social and emotional support as a complement to medical care.
Free of charge, the organization provides support and networking groups, lectures and workshops, and social events in a comfortable, homelike setting.
For information, or to join, volunteer or donate, call 201.457.1670 or visit: gildasclubnnj.org.
The grand reopening of the Gilda’s Club of Northern New Jersey library is at noon Wednesday at 575 Main St. in Hackensack. Lunch will be served.
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