As they evolve, organizations (like people) face both great opportunities and potential pitfalls. For a relatively new group, one defining challenge is making sure the identity of the group best reflects its strengths and accomplishments.
One organization that has quickly built a name for itself in Middlesex County and beyond has decided to face the identity challenge head on and change its title.
Formed three years ago, in the height of the pandemic, The ROC of New Jersey (an acronym for the Raritan Valley Orthodox Jewish Community Association) developed a variety of well received programs for the local community. Yet as the leadership of the group observed recently and reported to its supporters, despite their many successes: “It has become clear to us that most people have very little idea about what The ROC does.” So they decided to change the group’s name, to more clearly convey its mission, goals and services.
In an email dated August 29, the leaders of The ROC announced that the group will now be called “The New Jersey Chesed and Parnossa Network.” As they stated in the email: “Those two words, Chesed and Parnossa, express the core essential of what we do. We help people in need. The Network will be comprised of several divisions—each with its own goals, but with one mission—to provide assistance to community members, shuls, schools and organizations. With this new name, people will have a better understanding of what we are all about.”
Louis Glinn of Edison, chairman of The NJCPN commented in the group’s email: “This new name, ‘The New Jersey Chesed and Parnossa Network,’ really reflects the essence of who we are. While the name is changing, our core objectives will never change. We will continue to help anyone in need, regardless of the circumstance. That is what chesed is all about.”
“Choosing a name for a new organization is one of the most difficult choices that needs to be made,” said Josh Pruzansky of Highland Park, president and CEO of The New Jersey Chesed and Parnossa Network. “You know what your mission is going to be, but will the name do it justice? I am excited by this new name, and with Hashem’s blessings for success, to see the continued growth of our organization, combined with increasing our services to individuals and community alike.”
The New Jersey Chesed and Parnossa Network looks forward to a redesign of The ROC of NJ website, to reflect their new identity, in the weeks ahead.
For further information on The New Jersey Chesed and Parnossa Network please reach out to Josh Pruzansky at
[email protected]
