MANAHAWKIN, NJ – The Causeway Family of Dealerships and Causeway CARes recently hosted the 5th Annual Summer in Winter Carnival, a vibrant celebration of community spirit, charitable endeavors, and fun for all. Held at The Mainland Kitchen & Pub in Manahawkin, this year’s carnival brought together 35 non-profit and community organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in Ocean County and beyond.

The Summer in Winter Carnival has become a hallmark event, drawing the community together and showcasing organizations committed to improving education, enhancing food security, and enriching the quality of life for all Ocean County residents. From local non-profits to community groups, each organization represented at the carnival shared a dedication to serving the local community.

The non-profits in attendance included:

• America’s Keswick
• Brick Children’s Community Theatre
• Bright Harbor Foundation Supporting Bright Harbor Healthcare
• Coastal Volunteers in Medicine
• Community Medical Center
• CONTACT of Ocean & Monmouth Counties
• Family Promise of the Jersey Shore
• Fulfill – Foodbank of Monmouth & Ocean Counties
• Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore
• Habitat for Humanity of Southern Ocean County
• Hackensack Meridian Health
• HOPE Sheds Light
• Interfaith Health & Support Services of Southern Ocean County, Inc.
• Interfaith Hospitality Network of Ocean County, Inc.
• JBJ Soul Kitchen Toms River
• LivWell
• Meals on Wheels of Ocean County
• Mental Health Association in NJ – Ocean County
• Northern Ocean Habitat for Humanity
• Ocean County College Foundation
• Ocean County Library Foundation
• Ocean County Vocational Technical School
• Ocean County YMCA
• Ocean Inc.
• Ocean Partnership for Children
• Ocean’s Harbor House, Inc.
• Preferred Behavioral Health Group
• Project Lakeview
• ReClam The Bay
• Southern Ocean Medical Center
• St. Francis Community Center
• Starve Poverty International
• The Arc, Ocean County Chapter Inc.
• The Maximilian Foundation
• United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties
• Your Grandmother’s Cupboard

David Wintrode, President of The Causeway Family of Dealerships/Causeway CARes, reflected on the event’s origins and evolution. “It was originally suggested to us as a way to celebrate our 50th anniversary in business. Once we had our first event, we knew there was no way we were going to stop,” he said. “There is so much networking and important information being shared among all the various organizations here. Entertaining the children and watching them have a great time is just an added bonus.”

Attendees of all ages found something to engage with, from nonprofit tables and carnival games to live performances and boardwalk food. Children reveled in the activities, while adults participated in insightful discussions and learned about the various ways they could contribute to the betterment of their community.

The entertainment lineup was nothing short of spectacular, featuring performances by special guests such as John Pizzi the ventriloquist, Caricatures by Akbar, Magic Al, and more. From mind-bending magic shows to captivating fortune tellers, there was no shortage of thrills and surprises to keep attendees of all ages entertained throughout the day.

The 50/50 cash raffle proved to be a resounding success, raising over $1,200. The proceeds were split three ways between Ocean County College Foundation, Ocean Partnership for Children, and the United Way, demonstrating the community’s generosity and commitment to supporting vital educational and social initiatives.

The Summer in Winter Carnival underscores the vital role of corporate social responsibility in driving positive change. By leveraging their resources and influence, The Causeway Family of Dealerships demonstrated a steadfast commitment to supporting local initiatives and addressing pressing social issues. Through Causeway CARes, the organization has become a catalyst for philanthropy and community development, empowering others to join in their mission of service and compassion.

About Causeway CARes
Causeway CARes’ mission is to make a direct and profound impact in and around Ocean County in the areas of education, food security and quality of life. Founded in 2004 and funded by the Wintrode Family Foundation, Inc., Causeway CARes strives to make the community a better place to live, grow and thrive. To learn more, visit CausewayCARes.com.