Children’s Specialized Hospital Foundation board members Edward J. McKenna of Red Bank and Mark Montenero of Toms River recently received the 2023 Outstanding Philanthropists Award (for nonprofits with fundraising budgets over $1 million) by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, New Jersey chapter.
CSHF embarked on the largest capital campaign in its 36-year history, with McKenna and Montenero leading the charge as volunteers. The demands of co-chairing this unprecedented capital campaign significantly exceed the pair’s responsibilities as board members. In addition to each making sizable financial contributions to the campaign, McKenna and Montenero led a 10-person volunteer campaign cabinet to success, reaching the campaign’s $45 million fundraising goal and seeing all capital projects to completion.
“What Mark and Ed did for children and families in New Jersey in their roles as campaign co-chairs is beyond remarkable,” Leslie Logan Taylor, chair, CSHF board of trustees, said. “There is no one more deserving of this honor and recognition.”
The results of this campaign are life-changing for thousands of families across New Jersey. Four new outpatient centers were opened across the state — in Bayonne, Union, Eatontown and Toms River — and its original hospital in Mountainside underwent much-needed renovations. This expansion increased the total number of CSH treatment facilities to 15 and increased patient capacity by 30%..
Additionally, the funds raised through this campaign supported critical pediatric research studies, treatment program expansion and technological upgrades that will help children today and in the future.
“Any foundation is only as strong as its donors, volunteers and supporters. We are so fortunate to have an incredible board of trustees that includes Ed McKenna and Mark Montenero,” Alissa Memoli, president and chief development officer, CSHF, said. “I extend sincere congratulations to Ed and Mark on this prestigious award and want to thank our entire board, campaign cabinet and every donor that made this campaign a success.”
