About Us
Community Karma is a volunteer-driven 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to fostering compassion and strengthening the sense of community in Asbury Park.
The organization supports youth and families in Greater Asbury Park through its annual initiatives, creating meaningful change. Community Karma’s signature initiatives include the AP Holiday Toy Drive, AP Backpack Drive, and AP Halloween Costume Drive.
In addition, Community Karma sponsors and provides support for a girls’ softball team in the AP Little League. Providing valuable team sports experience for 9-10-year-old girls.
What makes Community Karma special is our close work with other local nonprofits, especially those serving the greatest needs, and its meaningful partnerships with small businesses in the community to help make a bigger difference.
Inclusivity is Key.
Community Karma is deeply committed to inclusivity and equity. We believe a strong community is one where everyone feels valued, seen, and supported—regardless of race, ethnicity or national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, ability, socioeconomic background, immigration status, or religious beliefs.
Mission Statement
Community Karma strives to build stronger community bonds between populations who need assistance and those who are in positions to help.
Our outreach and communications helps the community understand the need and offers accessible and meaningful ways to provide support through volunteer and fundraising opportunities.
Vision and Goals
Provide Direct Support: Deliver essential items to families through signature initiatives like the Holiday Toy Drive, Backpack Drive, and Halloween Costume Drive.
Foster Strong Partnerships: Collaborate with local nonprofits, small businesses, and community leaders to increase impact.
Champion Inclusion: Ensure all programs are accessible, equitable, and reflective of the diverse Asbury Park community.
Expand Community Reach: Sustain legacy programs while growing year-round support efforts.
Empower Volunteers: Create meaningful opportunities for community members to get involved and give back to the community.
Build Awareness: Increase visibility of Community Karma’s mission to strengthen community engagement in our initiatives as well as donor and volunteer support.
History
Community Karma was founded by Celia Cattani while living in San Francisco, California, where she supported grassroots programs serving the city’s housing-insecure population. Upon returning to her home state of New Jersey and settling in Asbury Park, Celia recognized the community's unique spirit and potential—and saw it as the ideal place to expand Community Karma’s mission.
Beginning in 2016, Community Karma became a primary supporter of the Asbury Park Holiday Toy Drive. When the Asbury Park Toy Drive formally concluded in 2023, the responsibility of continuing its legacy was entrusted to Community Karma, allowing the organization to carry forward its mission of supporting families throughout the Greater Asbury Park area.
Strategic partnerships have played a vital role in the growth and success of Community Karma’s signature programs.
Key collaborators include St. Stephen AME Zion Church, Asbury Park Little League, the Kiwanis Club of Asbury Park, and The Mercy Center. These partnerships have been instrumental in extending our reach and deepening our impact across the community.
FAQs
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Community Karma is an all-volunteer nonprofit based in Asbury Park, NJ. We are the lead organizers for the annual Asbury Park Holiday Toy Drive and Asbury Park Backpack Drive.
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There is a great need for assistance in Asbury Park to support the youth and families.
A disproportionate number of Asbury Park families, 13%, live below the poverty line.
82.9% of Asbury Park school children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch programs, indicating a high level of economic challenges in the area. -
Donate - You can make an impact in your community by donating to support our efforts.
Volunteer - Contact us to register with our Volunteer Team.
Partner - We welcome business partners to support our community impact efforts.
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Yes! Community Karma is a registered 501(c)3 charitable organization. All donations are tax-deductible.