NJ Sharing Network, the federally designated non-profit organization responsible for the recovery of donated organs and tissue in New Jersey, recently honored local residents and organizations for their exceptional volunteer service during its 2025 Volunteer Appreciation Reception, held at its headquarters in New Providence.
“Our volunteers are the heart and soul of our mission,” said Kelly Bonventre, director of hospital and community services, NJ Sharing Network. “Their compassion and commitment help share the gift of life by raising awareness, educating communities, and honoring the legacy of organ and tissue donor heroes. Their efforts make a real and lasting impact in saving and enhancing lives.”
The following Volunteer Recognition Awards were presented during the event:
- Community Hero Awards – JoAnn DiGilio of Washington and Maryann Rosenberg of Lakewood for going above and beyond in advancing NJ Sharing Network’s lifesaving mission through community outreach and education. DiGilio encourages students to take action – including starting Donate Life Clubs. She helped launch several student-led clubs. Her husband, Rudy, is a living kidney donor to his brother. Rosenberg, a retired registered nurse, was first inspired to volunteer with NJ Sharing Network after her husband Glenn received a lifesaving liver transplant. After his passing, he became a cornea donor, continuing the cycle of giving.
- Jim Rhatican Legacy Award – This year’s award was presented to Victor DiSanto of Hillsborough for continuing the legacy of longtime volunteer Jim Rhatican, a liver transplant recipient who inspired thousands of students through NJSN’s High School Heroes Program. DiSanto, the father of a heart transplant recipient, speaks at high schools across New Jersey.
- Community Partner Award – This year’s award was presented to Biocodex, a family-owned pharmaceutical company located in Bedminster, for its collaboration and continued support of NJ Sharing Network’s public education efforts. What began as a staff service project at NJ Sharing Network’s headquarters became a lasting connection. Biocodex was so moved by the experience that it later invited NJ Sharing Network to speak during a national staff gathering.
- Youth Volunteers of the Year – This year’s awards were presented to Saksham Gupta of Piscataway and Melia Schettino of Berkeley Heights for their outstanding efforts in raising awareness about organ and tissue donation in their schools and communities. Gupta seeks opportunities to connect NJ Sharing Network with other events in which he is involved. Schettino has made a big impact behind the scenes, helping package information kits and giveaway items for events.
- Wrapped In Love Volunteer of the Year – This year’s award was presented to Lora Rayner of Edison for giving over 100 hours of her time to crochet and knit shawls and lap blankets for organ and tissue donor families. Rayner keeps NJ Sharing Network stocked with handmade items, and she also recruited members of her church to join the effort.
- Media Champion Award – This year’s award was presented to News 12 New Jersey for its consistent and compassionate storytelling highlighting organ and tissue donation. Its coverage has amplified the voices of donor families and transplant recipients, helping to educate the public and inspire support for donation.
- NJSN Spotlight Award – This year’s award was presented to more than a dozen volunteers who gave their time and energy to participate in the filming of NJ Sharing Network’s first television commercial campaign, helping to raise awareness to a wider audience.
