Starts "For Pete’s Sake" fund
To the editor:
Having been a former staff member of the late Assemblyman Peter J. Biondi, I came to learn first hand the dedication and commitment that Pete gave to the community during his tenure in political office.
As the current director of development for the Resource Center of Somerset, it is with great pride that I announce a special campaign in honor of Pete, who passed away on Nov. 10 after a courageous battle with cancer. The Peter J. Biondi Memorial Initiative for the Prevention of Domestic Violence in Somerset County has been established with a goal of $100,000 to be raised for a cause that Pete stood behind for over 20 years, namely domestic violence prevention.
Over the years, thousands of women, children and men have received services through the Resource Center ‘s emergency shelter (Victoria House), as well as clinical outreach, legal advocacy, 24-hour hotline and community education programs at their counseling center, located in Pete’s hometown of Hillsborough.
Pete Biondi was a team leader behind the efforts of the Resource Center of Somerset. He had a quest for helping victims of domestic abuse and on many occasions spoke passionately about the obligation and need of the community to work hard to prevent domestic violence and to care for the victims and survivors.
During his distinguished tenure as Hillsborough Township mayor, Somerset County freeholder and New Jersey assemblyman, Pete would seek out funding sources, such as public grants, private foundations, corporate donations and civic fund raisers, and channel those contacts to the Resource Center of Somerset. He saw to it that necessary funds were raised to support the programs and services aimed at empowering victims of abusive relationships.
We are calling on Somerset County residents to join the hundreds of friends of Pete Biondi who have already made a special holiday gift in Pete’s name to continue his legacy. Your donation to the Resource Center of Somerset will support the much-needed programs and services that provide help and hope for people affected by domestic abuse. Your support will truly make a difference.
Residents can make a contribution by check payable to: The Resource Center of Somerset and mail to: The Resource Center of Somerset, For Pete’s Sake , 427 Homestead Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844 . Donations by way of credit card may also be made via the organization’s website at: www.resourcecenterofsomerset.org and click on Pete’s picture. It’s that simple.
Thank you for your generous support in helping to keep the memory of Peter J. Biondi alive.
John Graf Jr.
Director of development
Resource Center of Somerset
Hillsborough