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Local Voices

Business and Professional of NJ Held Successful Fall Meeting

Business and Professional Women of New Jersey (BPWNJ) held a successful Fall Meeting on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at Monmouth University's in West Long Branch, NJ.  The meeting included networking time, a presentation on Depression, a keynote speech on Domestic Violence, a scholarship presentation and a business meeting.

Gwendolyn Evans (of Freehold), Vice President of BPWNJ gave a short presentation on the many faces of depression.  Gwen has been the College Nurse at Brookdale Community College since August, 1975.  Her presentation included how to recognize the signs of depression and how to get help. 

The keynote speaker was Michael B. Berman, Esquire.  Mr. Berman is a Single Practitioner of law in Lakewood, New Jersey.  Most of his practice is in the areas of family law and workers compensation.  He also devotes much of his time to community service.  Mr. Berman received the Community Service Award from J.C. Penney for his long time service as a volunteer attorney for the victims of domestic violence and for volunteer work with Providence House.  For many years members of BPWNJ have advocated for victims of domestic violence and volunteered their time and donated items to the cause. 

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Mr. Berman stated that 1 out of 3 -4 women in the United States is a victim.  Children who live in homes that experience domestic violence are also negatively impacted.  Thirty to thirty-five percent of women on active military duty are assaulted or sexually harassed.   Mr. Berman noted that nobody deserves to be battered.  If you suspect that a friend or family member is a victim stay in touch with them and let them know there are safe houses and other services available.  It is often difficult for a victim to leave and many victims return to their abusers multiple times before being able to make a clean break.

The Women’s Health Committee of BPWNJ presented a $1000.00 scholarship to Danielle Pellechio (of Manville).  Danielle is enrolled at Rutgers University.   She is a service veteran who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan and has started college to pursue a career as a Nurse. 

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Chartered in 1919, BPWNJ is a statewide organization presiding over multi-regional local organizations. The ultimate goal for BPWNJ is equality for all women in areas of pay, opportunity, growth, health and well-being.  The mission of the organization is to provide a supportive environment for women working towards personal and professional fulfillment, by advocating women's economic, educational and health issue.  The vision is to be the leading advocate for New Jersey women. Membership is open to all individuals who support the vision and mission of BPWNJ. 

BPWNJ also offers networking opportunities at the state and local levels.  Local organizations are available in East Bergen, Lincroft, Middlebrook and New Brunswick, Southern Ocean County, Suburban Essex, Summit and Tri Town (which covers Belleville, Bloomfield and Nutley).  

Each year the BPWNJ Foundation awards Career Development Scholarships to women continuing their education or to purchase a piece of equipment for a small business.  Applications will be available for downloading in February 2014 and the awards will be presented in May.  Visit www.businessandprofessionalwomennj.org to learn more about the organization, its scholarship program and to join.

The next statewide meeting will be on February 8, 2014 at Monmouth University.  Members of the public are welcome to attend.

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