Nestled within the southwest corner of New Jersey lies the Borough of National Park, a small town with a big spirit. The close-knit community isn’t just a spot on the map that sounds like a hiking destination -- it's hometown to over 3,000 rural residents whose bonds run deep, always looking out for one another and the ground they stand on.
Among its dedicated residents is Joy Gunn, a dedicated servant whose recent efforts have brought forth a wave of necessary change. A born-and-raised lifelong resident, she embodies the essence of the community spirit that defines this town, where she’s progressed from borough councilwoman to her position now as borough administrator and clerk.
“Every day is a new adventure where we’re always helping people, which is what I love to do,” said Gunn, who lights up at the opportunity to talk about her hometown. “It’s just the way of life around here.”
Earlier this year, the community rallied together to support a neighbor in need. A local pizza parlor hosted a fundraiser for a man who lost his home in an housefire. The outpouring of support was nothing short of remarkable, showcasing the resilience and compassion that define National Park by refusing to allow a neighbor to go homeless.
“Our job is to help the people in our community,” said Gunn. “We don’t have a whole lot here in our small town, but one thing we do have is a lot of heart.”
Gunn took it to heart a few years back when the borough received news the water supply had exceeded safe drinking levels. She immediately jumped into action to lead remediation efforts, aligning perfectly with Earth Day's message of sustainability and environmental protection.
The new mission: provide clean water to every National Park resident.
Thanks to Gunn's advocacy, National Park was able to secure a monumental victory—a $1 million Emergency Community Water Assistance grant from USDA Rural Development to construct a new water treatment facility for the community.
“The grant was a huge help to us; we really didn’t know what else to do at that time,” said Gunn. “We are so grateful for our relationship with the USDA. The project improved the lives of so many residents and showcased our stewardship for a clean environment.”
Awarded in July of 2020 under Rural Development’s Water & Environmental Program umbrella, the grant marked a turning point for National Park. The vital infrastructure project provides clean and reliable water to doorsteps throughout the borough – something they needed for several years.
“Joy’s passion for community and caring for the environment can’t be suppressed,” said Jane Asselta, USDA Rural Development State Director for New Jersey. “Joy recognized the water contamination would pose a growing health risk to her residents and sprang into action; not only seeking the resources to remove the risk, but also in keeping residents informed throughout the process. More communities should be as proactive, inclusive, and transparent as National Park. She’s a testament to what National Park represents and we’re grateful to support this resilient and deserving rural community.”
As National Park embraces a brighter future with its new water facility, it stands as a shining example of what communities can achieve when they come together in the spirit of Earth Day, united in their commitment to environmental sustainability and collective well-being.
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