Who We Are

The United Nations Association Central Jersey Chapter (UNA Central Jersey) is a diverse and inclusive network of students, professionals, and community members dedicated to advancing the mission of the United Nations through local action. We welcome individuals of all ages and backgrounds who share a commitment to service, civic engagement, leadership, and global cooperation. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals, we create opportunities for advocacy, volunteerism, education, and community partnership while empowering the next generation of leaders to address local and global challenges. Together, we work to foster a more equitable, healthy, and sustainable future for our communities and the world.

World map with colorful dots and the United Nations emblem overlayed in the center.

Mission

UNA Central Jersey advances the mission and values of the United Nations by empowering individuals to create positive change in their communities and beyond. Guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we foster global citizenship through education, advocacy, service, and leadership development. We believe that local action can drive global impact, and we are committed to building a more equitable, healthy, sustainable, and connected world.

Our Goals

  • Promote Quality Education (SDG 4) by expanding access to educational opportunities, supporting Model United Nations programs, and fostering lifelong learning about global issues and sustainable development.

  • Advance Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) through partnerships, health education initiatives, and community programs that promote health equity and improve outcomes for underserved populations.

  • Develop Future Leaders and Global Citizens by empowering youth and young professionals with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to address local and global challenges in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.

  • Strengthen Civic Engagement and Inclusive Communities (SDGs 11 & 16) by encouraging active citizenship, community service, advocacy, and participation in democratic and civic processes.

  • Foster Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) by collaborating with schools, nonprofits, healthcare organizations, businesses, and community leaders to create meaningful and lasting impact.

  • Promote Equity, Human Rights, and Opportunity for All (SDGs 5, 10 & 16) by supporting initiatives that advance inclusion, reduce disparities, and strengthen peaceful, just, and equitable communities.

  • Support Sustainable Development at the Local Level by connecting Central Jersey communities to global efforts that address poverty, health, education, climate resilience, and social well-being.

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Initiatives & Partnerships

  • Blue text says "Engage, Empower, Make a Difference" with three stylized blue figures beneath, raising their arms in unity.

    Community Advocacy & Civic Engagement

    UNA Central Jersey empowers individuals to become active and informed citizens through advocacy, leadership, and community engagement. By connecting local action to global challenges, we create opportunities for service, dialogue, and civic participation that advance the Sustainable Development Goals and strengthen our communities.

  • Logo for the Pediatric Med Academy with a graduation cap, a heartbeat line, and text in red, black, and green.

    PalMed Academy

    PalMed Academy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing healthcare in Palestine through medical education, training, and professional development. UNA Central Jersey partners with PalMed Academy to support its Gaza Educate Medics (GEM) and Gaza Dental Education (G-Den) initiatives, raising funds for scholarships that help medical and dental students in Gaza continue their education despite ongoing challenges.

  • United Nations emblem featuring a world map surrounded by olive branches.

    Model United Nations & Youth Leadership

    UNA Central Jersey supports Model United Nations programs and leadership development opportunities that empower students to become informed global citizens. Through collaboration with schools, educators, and student leaders, we promote diplomacy, public speaking, critical thinking, and civic engagement while inspiring the next generation to address local and global challenges.

  • PeerHealth logo with the text 'peerhealth' in bold black letters and a stylized fish symbol to the right.

    Peer Health Exchange

    Peer Health Exchange (PHE) is a national nonprofit that provides evidence-based health education for teens, covering topics such as mental health, substance use, and sexual health. UNA Central Jersey is partnering with PHE to support the delivery of health education programs in local schools and engage volunteers in promoting youth health and well-being throughout our community.

Connect With Us

Interested in making an impact? Reach out to learn more about membership, volunteer opportunities, chapter events, partnerships, leadership opportunities, or ways to support our mission. We'd love to connect with you.

A diverse group of five young adults, including a woman with a headscarf and a man with a volunteer shirt, standing together smiling, surrounded by icons of communication and social media.