From its inception, the Committee’s purpose has been to award grants for projects that benefit the State of New Jersey.  Funding comes through NJC’s Growing Fund, a 501C(3) organization.  Since its founding, NJC has awarded $610,000 to GCA clubs for 99 completed projects.  All Zone IV clubs generously contribute to and have benefited from NJC’s Growing Fund.  Funded projects have included forest and greenhouse restoration, outdoor classrooms, rain and community gardens, and urban farms.

In 2001, the Committee expanded its mission to include scholarships for New Jersey students attending colleges and universities in the State.  An annual fundraising event supports two named scholarships: The Millicent Mercer Johnsen Scholarship at Rutgers University and The New Jersey Committee of The Garden Club of America Scholarship at County College of Morris.

To date, NJC has supported 79 students.  The students pursue bachelor’s or associate degrees in fields such as environmental studies, horticulture, landscape architecture, plant and marine science.