Jeff Gillman saw suffering in his community, and wanted to do something about it. In 1973, he became a trustee of NewBridge Services (known then as the Pequannock Valley Mental Health Center). “I’ve stayed active with NewBridge because of all the important needs we fulfill,” Gillman said.
“So many need help,” the longtime Pequannock Township resident said. “People with mental health problems. Broken families. Seniors who want to stay in their homes. Young people who need help getting their high school diploma,” Gillman said. “NewBridge is there for all of them.”
NewBridge CEO Michelle Borden called Gillman “an incredible asset” and said his five-decade commitment to NewBridge’s mission is exemplary. “Jeff has always used his personal strengths and connections in the community to improve NewBridge so we can support more people through counseling, housing and education,” Borden said.
The 82-year-old was a key player in establishing the annual golf outing and served as an event chair for 25 years. (The 27th annual golf outing during NewBridge’s 60th anniversary will be held Monday, Oct. 2 at the Knoll Country Club in Parsippany. Register at nbgolf2023.givesmart.com.)
Gillman served 18 years on NewBridge’s board of trustees, three of those as president. Gillman, who earned an MBA and worked in sales and marketing, used his business acumen to help the nonprofit manage its growth. The retiree remains an emeritus member of NewBridge’s trustee board.
Gillman helped launch FUNd Run, a fundraiser led by grade-school kids that drew the community together for many years. He attracted major donors to NewBridge, and he and his wife, Marie, have made significant contributions over the years. Gillman became the first member of the NewBridge Legacy Society by including NewBridge in his will.
“When you see an individual whose life has been repaired, you know all this work is worth it,” he said.
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