Sparta Friends and Neighbors marks 10 years of community service

SPARTA — September marked the 10th Anniversary for the newcomers club, Sparta Friends and Neighbors, which was originally part of Welcome Wagon. Though Welcome Wagon dissolved 10 years ago, the membership wanted to continue a newcomer’s club and that’s how Sparta Friends and Neighbors was formed. Past presidents, original members and the longest serving board member were all recognized at its anniversary celebration in September. Known for its generosity, the club has donated just under $50,000 to Sussex County charities in the past 10 years Each holiday season, the group holds a holiday auction which raises money for local charities. Last year, just almost $5,000 was raised and divided among DASI, People Help, The Robie Foundation and The Sparta Historical Society. The club also holds a Spring Fashion Show every year in April. The monies raised from this event are the sole funder of the Character Counts Program in the Sparta Middle School. This program promotes the ‘Six Pillars’ of character which are trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. The club has regular meetings on the second Tuesday of each month from September through May at the Shepherd of the Hills Church, 246 Woodport Rd at 9:30 a.m. Refreshments and baby sitting are provided. There are many monthly activities to sign up for, including books and movies, bowling, bunco, chicks with sticks, evening socials, gourmet cooking, “The INKcredibles,” and others. For more information, call 973-362-1151 or 973-729-6953 or visit www.spartafriendsandneighbors.org .