By opening new doors of opportunity, PCW helps circulate excellence throughout the large, diverse non-profit and volunteer community in Central New Jersey.
Our Mission
The mission of Princeton Community Works is to enable non-profit boards, staff and volunteers to work together more effectively through networking, developing skills, and raising community awareness.
Our Roots
In 2000, Marge Smith, along with several Princeton Rotarians, founded Princeton Community Works, an event held at Princeton University’s Frist Campus Center each January. The Annual Conference would not take place without the enormous generosity of our host, Princeton University, the administrative assistance of the Princeton Rotary, and the time and talents of our workshop presenters and our dedicated Planning Committee of volunteers.
In 2020-21
In support of our mission, Princeton Community Works is re-imagining its Annual Conference to address the realities of 2020 and beyond. Not only will the 2021 Conference with workshops and keynote be virtual, we will also be holding ongoing virtual “Community Conversations” this fall to address emerging issues and changes that affect the nonprofit community. This re-imagining will enable us to respond on a timely basis to a changing environment as we build community and network virtually.
Make Community Work
by Marge Smith
We need to be deaf to “Why bother? Who cares?”
“It won’t make a difference. No one does their share.”
We need to be deaf to “No one wants to volunteer.”
Or “You can’t count on them” or “We don’t need you here.”
We need to be deaf to the distinctions some people make
Based on race, sex, age, or religion – the premise they don’t have what it takes.
We need to be deaf to the model, “I win, you lose.”
Or “He who has gold wins.” That’s not what we choose.
Instead we need to believe that together we stand,
That differences enhance life and enrich our land.
That nonprofits profits are really unique.
Bringing people together, addressing major issues and accomplishing great feats.
Nonprofits value what is truly important in life –
Children, family, the environment, the arts. . . a world without strife.
So welcome to our conference. Be “frogs” that dare.
Deaf to the negative messages, make community work.
