Honoring Jim Sigurdson’s 27 Years of Service to Meals on Wheels Ocean County

For 27 years, Jim Sigurdson has led Meals on Wheels Ocean County with dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the seniors we serve. During his time as Executive Director, Jim has served thousands of seniors and supported the daily delivery of millions of meals throughout Ocean County. As he prepares for retirement, we take this opportunity to honor the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.

Under Jim’s leadership, Meals on Wheels Ocean County has grown into a lifeline for older adults across the county. Through every meal delivered, every wellness check completed, and every moment of connection provided, Jim has helped ensure that seniors are not only nourished, but safe, supported, and remembered.

“Jim’s dedication, leadership, and compassion have shaped Meals on Wheels Ocean County into the organization it is today,” said Wyatt Earp, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His remarkable legacy will continue to guide our work as we carry forward the mission he has served so faithfully for 27 years.”

His leadership has been especially evident during times of crisis. In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, Jim helped prioritize seniors and Sandy victims who needed immediate support, working to get drivers back on the road and meals back into the hands of those who depended on them. During one of Ocean County’s most difficult times, Meals on Wheels Ocean County remained focused on serving those most vulnerable because of Jim’s relentless dedication.

Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, that same commitment never wavered. While many services were forced to pause or scale back, Meals on Wheels Ocean County continued to serve seniors every day. The organization did not miss a single day of service due to Jim’s laser focus. Meals were delivered, wellness checks continued, and staff remained a lifeline for participants who were isolated, uncertain, and at greater risk.

At that time, Meals on Wheels Ocean County also helped provide more than meals. Donated toilet paper, household supplies, and other essential items were collected and delivered to seniors along with their meals. For many participants, that knock at the door was not only a delivery. It was reassurance that someone was still showing up, still checking in, and still caring.

But Jim’s impact cannot be measured by meals and wellness checks alone. It can be seen in the thousands of seniors who were able to remain independent at home, the families who had peace of mind, the volunteers who found purpose in service, and the staff who were inspired by his commitment to the mission.

As Jim is making his retirement plans, including a well-deserved cruise in his future, Meals on Wheels Ocean County is preparing for a thoughtful and stable transition. Heather deJong has been named the next Executive Director, effective January 1, 2027. Jim and Heather are working closely together to ensure a seamless transition and continued commitment to the seniors, families, volunteers, donors, community partners, and elected officials who make this mission possible.

“Heather and I will continue working closely to ensure that our programs and services are uninterrupted,” said Jim Sigurdson. “I want to thank Ocean County, my many Board Members, community partners, staff, and those we served for an amazing 27 years.

“Homes are memory galleries, where holidays are celebrated and disappointments are comforted. That is what goes to the heart of our mission, and it has been the privilege of my professional life.”

“Meals on Wheels Ocean County is the Community, Care, and Connection in thousands of seniors’ lives,” said Heather deJong. “For the last 27 years, Jim’s main focus has been what is best for our seniors and keeping them safe and well, where they want to be: home. I am honored by the Board’s confidence to continue in his footsteps, profoundly thankful for the precedence Jim set, and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Executive Director of Meals on Wheels Ocean County.”

Because of Jim’s leadership, Meals on Wheels Ocean County has delivered More Than Meals to generations of seniors across Ocean County. As he prepares to retire, Meals on Wheels Ocean County celebrates not only his years of service, but the lasting difference he has made in the lives of older adults across our community. Jim’s legacy is one of service, resilience, and heart.

“Causeway CARes and The Wintrode Family Foundation have enjoyed a longstanding partnership with Meals on Wheels Ocean County,” said David C. Wintrode, President of the Causeway Family of Dealerships and Causeway CARes. “Jim Sigurdson’s leadership has made a lasting impact on countless seniors throughout Ocean County, and we are grateful for everything he has done to strengthen our community. We congratulate him on an incredible career and wish him nothing but the best in retirement.”

“One of the most unique aspects of our partnership with Meals on Wheels Ocean County has been the donation of more than 25 retired Meals on Wheels vehicles over the years,” said Joe Stroffolino, Director of Marketing and Advertising for the Causeway Family of Dealerships and Causeway CARes. “Through Causeway CARes, we’ve been able to refurbish those vehicles and place them with other local nonprofits, allowing Jim’s commitment to serving the community to continue reaching even more people. It’s a partnership we’re incredibly proud of.”

We invite our community to join us for an evening honoring Jim’s 27 years of leadership and service at our upcoming Legacy Event on November 12 at The Mainland in Manahawkin. To learn more, purchase tickets, or support the event, please scan the QR code included with this article.