PRINCETON NJ Announcement

NJTL of Trenton Celebrates 50 Years of Community Impact with Special Anniversary Gala Featuring Tennis Legend Kim Clijsters

Trenton, NJ — June 16 2025 — As part of its year-long 50th anniversary celebration, NJTL of Trenton will host its annual gala on Sunday, September 21, 2025, honoring five decades of impact through tennis, education, and mentorship in the greater Trenton community. The event will take place at two Mercer County locations: the Mercer County Indoor Tennis Center and The Boathouse at Mercer Lake in West Windsor, NJ.

The day will feature a tennis exhibition with Kim Clijsters, four-time Grand Slam Champion and former WTA World #1, alongside NJTL of Trenton student-athletes and alumni. A VIP meet-and-greet with Clijsters, live auction, buffet dinner, open bar, and an awards ceremony will round out the celebration. Long-standing supporters Albert Stark and Ginny Mason will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs, and Julia Benedict will serve as Event Chairperson. 

Event Highlights

• Tennis exhibition featuring Kim Clijsters and NJTLT student-athletes and alumni
• VIP meet-and-greet with Kim Clijsters
• Buffet dinner, open bar, and live music
• Live auction and awards presentation
• Honoree Presentation

NJTLT's 2025 Honorees

Deborah Sands Gartenberg & The George H. & Estelle M. Sands Foundation

Founded in 1996 by George and Estelle Sands, the Sands Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the arts, healthcare, and education in the Princeton area. Their daughter, Deborah Sands Gartenberg, has advanced that mission with a distinct focus on equity and opportunity for children in under-resourced communities, particularly Trenton.

Under her leadership, the Foundation supports over 25 local organizations committed to educational success, youth development, and wellness. A steadfast champion of NJTL of Trenton since 2016, Deborah has provided critical support through generous funding, volunteerism, and personal engagement, helping Trenton youth thrive both on the tennis court and in the classroom.

NJM Insurance Group

Founded in 1913, NJM is a leading property and casualty insurer in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Company employs nearly 2,500 people and is headquartered in West Trenton, with offices in Parsippany and Hammonton. NJM operates solely in the interest of its policyholders, delivering competitive pricing, superior claims handling, and award-winning service. Personal insurance products are offered in Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, while business insurance is available through a network of independent agents in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. NJM is consistently recognized for outstanding customer satisfaction and service.

One of NJM’s core values is to support the communities it is privileged to serve. In 2024, the Company supported more than 500 charitable organizations across the region. A proud partner of NJTL of Trenton since 2010, NJM has contributed to the annual gala, funded tennis court renovations at Cadwalader Park and Villa Park, and supported the Academic Creative Engagement (ACE) program. NJM employees also actively participate in NJTLT’s annual Capital Cup Friendraiser and Gala events.

Why This Gala Matters

All proceeds from the 50th Anniversary Celebration will benefit NJTL of Trenton’s transformative youth programs, including:

• Summer Camp and Academic Creative Engagement (ACE)
• Ashe Elite Indoor Tennis Training
• Minecraft Education for students and teachers
• Community outreach and engagement initiatives
• Tennis equipment and learning tools

Schedule of Events

Mercer County Indoor Tennis Center

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | VIP Meet & Greet with Kim Clijsters

12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Tennis Exhibition featuring Kim Clijsters and NJTLT student-athletes

The Boathouse at Mercer Lake

3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Dinner, Open Bar, Live Music, and Honoree Presentations

Tickets and Sponsorship

NJTL of Trenton is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible. To purchase tickets, sponsor the event, or learn more, visit www.njtloftrenton.org. NJTL of Trenton is grateful for the support of their sponsors and participants, who believe in and support its mission. Together, they are helping make a difference in the lives of so many local youth. NJTL of Trenton is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Tax I.D. #52-1260470

For more information visit: www.njtloftrenton.org/2025-njtlt-gala