SAGE Eldercare has joined #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities, and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. This year, #GivingTuesday is December 1, follows both “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday,” and proves that the holidays can be about both giving gifts and giving back.

“Prior to participating in #GivingTuesday to finish out our Annual Fund giving for the year, we have been asking our donors, volunteers, board members, and the community to review our organization throughout the calendar year,” stated Fred Jenny, Executive Director for SAGE. “Based on this year’s reviews, we received a 4.9 out of a 5-star rating from our reviews with GreatNonprofits, the largest nonprofit review site, which places us on the 2015 Top-Rated Nonprofits list. We are very proud of this rating and hope that it will boost the annual giving to our highly-rated organization.”

This is the third consecutive year that SAGE Eldercare has sought reviews and received a high ranking. The reviews allow the public to better understand the work of an organization through the eyes of those affiliated with it. The ratings are also available through GuideStar, the leading source of nonprofit information which connects donors and grantmakers to reputable charities.

SAGE Eldercare, which was founded in 1954, strives to help older adults remain independent in the comfort of their own homes by providing programs and services to support families and caregivers in surrounding communities. The organization relies on the support and generosity of donors to its Annual Fund, which is the foundation of philanthropic support for those who need financial assistance for SAGE’s services. The fund is also an important source of unrestricted funds which underwrites a significant portion of the general operating budget.

“During the past few years, SAGE has been observing an increasing number of older adults who are lacking financial resources and relying on us to help them retain their independence in their own homes and communities, which are familiar and comforting to them,” noted Jenny. “Therefore, we are faced with the critical need for donor support to SAGE’s Annual Fund so that we can provide a safety net for the many seniors who are turning to us in need of eldercare services and support.”

Donations for SAGE’s Annual Fund can be made online at www.sageeldercare.org or, if someone has questions or wants to donate by check, inquiries can be directed to 908.273.5500.

#GivingTuesday, which is in its fourth year, was designated to help change the global dialogue about giving and mobilize an “opening day” for charitable giving and volunteer support for causes, large and small, across the United States and around the world.

A team of recognized experts and influencers, initially convened by leaders of 92nd Street Y and supported by a core group of founding partners, originally spearheaded this effort. Founding partners in 2012 included United Nations Foundation, DonorsChoose.org, Mashable, Blackbaud, charity: water, GlobalGiving, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Kiva, Darden Restaurant Group, Groupon, Unilever, and VentureThree Capital. Leaders in philanthropy, social media, innovative giving, grassroots organizing, marketing and communications are providing counsel and resources to help build this movement.

For more than 60 years, SAGE Eldercare has been helping make the communities it serves an amazing place to age.  The organization provides a wide array of information, support, and services designed to help individuals lead the most independent and active lives possible.  From helping with errands, to exercise classes, community programs, an adult day program, care planning, and home health care, SAGE’s expertise helps older adults remain independent in their own homes.  SAGE is committed to being the leading provider of programs and services to meet the changing needs of older adults, their families, and caregivers throughout Union, Essex, Morris, and Somerset Counties.  For more information, please call 908.273.5550 or visit www.sageeldercare.org.

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