Southern Ocean Chamber Association presents summer donation to Parker's Army

SHIP BOTTOM, N.J. - Aug. 16, 2019 - PRLog -- The Southern Ocean Chamber Association, a NJ 501c3 Non Profit; (SOCA) was established to provide resources to advance small business and nonprofit entities throughout the Long Beach Island region. The organization presented Parker's Army with a donation for $1000 to further advance their mission.  Parker's Army is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in the memory of Parker Nork, an avid athlete, who passed away after a short battle with ALL Leukemia at the young age of nine. To memorialize his beautiful life, the organization seeks to raise funds through various community events to provide scholarships to high school student athletes, to help fund area youth recreational programs and hockey programs and to donate to help in the fight to cure childhood cancer. The gift was designated to the organization from the Van Dyk Group, through SOCA's community chest giving program.

The donation check was presented at the Southern Ocean Chamber office this past week from SOCA Board Members Jerry Thompson and Lori Pepenella. Representatives from Parker's Army were Kim Nork President, Sean Griffin Vice President and Patricia Pollard Secretary;  in addition to Parker's Army providing funding to recreational youth sports by way of scholarships, equipment, uniforms, sponsorships and registration fees. The organization hosts fundraisers and events throughout the year. They have also introduced the Parker's Army Sportsmanship Award (https://www.parkersarmy.com/sportsmanshipaward) to recognize youth athletes that display extraordinary attitudes and ethics both on and off the field. Nominations can be submitted through their website www.parkersarmy.com

The Southern Ocean Chamber Association (SOCA) was founded to support the growing business programs that have been created to stimulate economic development through the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce as well as furthering its Thrive in 105 mission for nonprofit support. The organization utilizes  the dynamic business network within Southern Ocean County to secure donations that can be directed towards nonprofit organizations whose missions serve the causes of Youth, Culture, Community, Wellness and First Responders of the region. It was awarded 501c3 status from the IRS March 2019. For more information about SOCA go to  https://visitlbiregion.com/thrive-in-105/