Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III and the Bergen County Board of Commissioners announced on March 25 the launch of United We Serve Bergen, a countywide Week of Service set to take place from April 18 to April 26, as part of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary commemorations.
The initiative aims to bring residents together through volunteer opportunities at community organizations, food pantries, historic sites, and parks throughout Bergen County. Organizers say this effort is intended not only to honor the nation’s milestone but also to strengthen local civic engagement and support community needs.
Commissioner Tracy Zur said, “United We Serve is about turning commemoration into action. It’s about reconnecting with our neighbors and double downing to support each other. As we remember that this began with ‘We the People’ there’s no better way to honor our past than by securing our future. Rolling up our sleeves to help each other and our community fortifies our civic foundation.”
The program invites organizations, students, corporate groups, and county residents to participate in service projects designed both for upcoming commemorative programming and broader community benefit. Tedesco said, “Bergen County has always stepped up when it matters most. As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, United We Serve is an opportunity to bring people together, give back to our communities, and put the values we’re celebrating into action. This is about service, community, and making sure every resident has a chance to be part of this milestone.”
Service projects will include environmental cleanups, beautification efforts in public spaces, collection drives for those in need—including veterans and seniors—and hands-on activities supporting local food pantries. The Week of Service is structured so that volunteers can find opportunities suited for different interests and schedules across the county.
Residents interested in volunteering or hosting a project can find more information or sign up at www.unitedweservebergen.org.
