A truly spectacular place, one which exudes a magical presence as you enter its doors…read more I was here for a volunteer event and I was taken away by the castle and everything it tries to achieve. This gave me a different perspective on life and rectified my faded optimism in people. Opened in 2011, this Make A Wish chapter moved from a rather plain looking small office space in Union, Nj. The land in Monroe Township was donated by a local developer (14 acres). In addition, there was a separate donation of $3 million by an individual to fund the building of this project. The castle, both interior and exterior, reminds me of being in Disney, starting with the design and shape of the castle to the Disney-like colorful chairs. The original proposed designs by the staff were scrapped as Disney Imagineers stepped in to help with the project. The wishing rooms, team room and enchanted forest-themed common space is Disney-style at its finest. There is a beautiful, spacious courtyard in the back with a fountain and Adirondack chairs that gives the place a serene tranquility. The Make A Wish foundation does not receive any government funding because they are not a medical establishment. Instead, it is wholly supported by individuals and corporations. They grant kids with a critical illness one wish. I did not know this but the kids, although critically ill, do not need to be terminal to qualify. Wishes range from meeting celebrities (you tubers included) to travel to providing gifts to other sick kids in a hospital. You leave here feeling great about your small contribution to society but it's bittersweet.

I just got a new puppy. It's tough with new puppies because they need all their shots and…read moreboosters. Plus a micro chip. My vet wanted $150 to do the micro chip and register pup for only one year. I found the Garden State Animal Rescues micro chip clinic and I am glad I did! They were so kind and personable to deal with. They came to my house to do the injection and they registered my pup with home again for life! The fee? $30 because I live in monmouth county! Not only did they do that service, but they gave me info on training and suggested a probiotic for my puppy's upset stomach. Cannot say enough good about them! Thank you so much Garden State Animal Rescue!

Highly recommend for their excellent service, quality work, reasonable rates, great car wash. Tino…read moreis the man!

What a hidden gem . It's a beautiful preserve that has trails and indoor education center. They…read moreoffer many classes for the community. We happen to arrive here for a plant swap event. I was pleasantly surprised with the kid friendly activities too.

The Plainsboro Preserve is a lovely, serene space to walk. It has many trails. We walked the white…read moretrail as the other takes you along the lake. It's very pretty with the lake and the trees especially at this time of year in the Fall. There is an environmental center in the front with educational materials, bathrooms and educational displays.

The Freehold Self Help Center is actually located at 17 Bannard st. It's a great place to go and be…read morewith people that understand what you're going through. We go on trips and the staff is very helpful. Come check us out!

Can I work here? I came for a work event that included breakfast and lunch. Lunch was fantastic:…read moresalad, grilled chicken, grilled veggies, pasta, quinoa flax cookies (sounds healthy buts tastes not healthy!) fruit, etc. The building is modern but warm. Huge windows that look over the expansive property. Little Rock gardens on coffee tables (very zen) and comfortable, clean lined furniture compliments the huge main building. Staff perks include fitness classes and bikes (indoor and outdoor) to be used at leisure. One of the tvs in the lobby displayed photos of upcoming staff birthdays (as part of the loop playing.) The artwork was beautiful too. I snapped a pic of a statue (mother and child) but didn't go photo crazy since it was a work event. The surroundings very much suited the reason I was there. This place left me feeling all warm and tingly inside!

On St.Patrick's Day 2022 I started my volunteer job at Rise Thrift Store in Highstown and met…read moreLeslie Koppel Executive Director of Rise .She is truly an amazing and inspiring person to work with ! We organize and merchandise the store before we open up at 10. We take donations and sell many different items such as: housewares, electronics ,clothes, toys, shoes , pocketbooks, accessories and many more . The staff and workers are like family .Kind and fun to work with Rise has made a great impact on my life by allowing me to help others something I love to do Volunteers and workers are welcome with open arms Written by Laura Sala

From the owner: Rise is the primary non-profit social service organization in eastern Mercer County, NJ. We provide…read morereferral and support services to families and individuals in need. We offer a wide range of programs that help struggling members of our local community build independence and achieve their full potential. Located in downtown Hightstown, we are one of four neighborhood centers strategically located throughout the county under Mercer County's Community Action Program.