The United Way of North Essex is honored that you want to apply for membership on the SPARCS Board. Being a Board member is an important part of the SPARCS (Student Planned And Run Community Service) program. The Board is composed of high school students from the North Essex area and will meet at least once a month during the school year. Meetings will be held on weekday evenings. Board members will read all SPARCS grant applications and give recommendations for funding certain volunteer projects. During the year, SPARCS Board members will promote community service for teens throughout North Essex. This may include doing community service as a group.

To be eligible for acceptance to the Board of SPARCS, you must be a junior or senior in a high school in the North Essex area: Caldwell, Cedar Grove, Essex Fells, Fairfield, Livingston, Montclair, North Caldwell, Roseland, Verona and West Caldwell. You must be a resident of one of the above listed communities.  If selected, you will be representing your town. Your academic record is not a factor in becoming a member of the SPARCS Board.

You may download the  Board: Vital Statistics sheet, “Tell us about yourself” questions and Recommendation form by clicking on the links below.  Completed application materials should be sent to the United Way of North Essex, 60 South Fullerton Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07042, Attn: Karin Nelson.  You should provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope for the adult filling out the recommendation form, since they should send them to the United Way separately.  Please keep a copy of your application.

   SPARCS Board Application Form  (Word doc)

SPARCS Board Application Form (.pdf)

If you have any questions call United Way office (973) 746-4040 or email Karin Nelson.