Volunteers Needed for Nutley Raking Program

Commissioner Joseph P. Scarpelli and the Department of Public Works have announced plans to continue the RAKES Program during the 2012 leaf raking season. Providing an alternative for seniors and the disabled, RAKES (Random Acts of Kindness Extended to Seniors) is a leaf raking service performed by volunteers within the Nutley community. Businesses, churches, civic groups, schools and neighborhood organizations are encouraged to form volunteer teams. Residents seeking assistance must be over 60 years of age and /or be disabled, own and live in the home requiring raking assistance and be unable to afford help.

Entering its fifth year, the program will start in mid-November and will rely heavily on volunteers. The RAKES program also offers high school students an avenue to fulfill their community service commitment for college entry.

“This program thrives because of the strong sense of volunteerism in our community,” Scarpelli said. “It is this volunteer spirit that makes Nutley a unique and special place to live and work,” he added.

If you know of seniors or someone that is disabled and could benefit from assistance, please contact Cheryl Gaccione at 973-284-4958. Also, if you, your civic group, Boy Scout Den, Girl Scout Troop, school organization or team would like to participate by volunteering to rake, please download the RAKES Program Volunteer Application from the Township Website at www.nutleynj.org or contact the Department of Public Works at 973-284-4958. All applications should be submitted by November 5.

Scarpelli and the Department of Public Works are also working to expand on the RAKES program in the spring of 2013. The new initiative will bring lawn mowing assistance to seniors and the disabled throughout the spring and summer months who could not otherwise afford help. Details about this program will be released as the season approaches. Those interested in participating in this program, either as a recipient or volunteer, should call  973-284-4958.