Introducing the Board Spotlight, a fresh addition to our bi-weekly Insights newsletter. This feature illuminates the trailblazing individuals who are steering the course for OGR with their forward-thinking approach. For more information, click here. 

Geri Oliverie is the manager and owner of Oliverie Funeral Home in Manchester, New Jersey. She serves on the OGR Board of Directors. The OGR Insights Newsletter caught up Geri to talk about her hobbies, many involvements, her favorite part of being an OGR member and more... 

OGR: What do you do for fun or to relax? 

GO: I like to read, exercise, hike, dance, spend time with my grandchildren, and travel. 

OGR: How did you first become involved with OGR and what motivated you to do so? 

GO: Many years ago, a colleague introduced me to OGR at a convention. The rest is history. 

OGR: What made you want to join OGR's Board of Directors?

GO: The need to keep the organization running into the future and understand the new changes. To help people know that we are here for them and the only ones working with and for the independents. 

OGR: What message or advice would you like to share with other members who might be considering getting more involved? 

GO: There is so much to learn and grow to stay viable into the future with the rising cost and new dispositions forthcoming. 

OGR: What other board work, volunteering, or side work do you do? 

GO: I am active with the American Cancer Society, Lakehurst Manchester Rotary Foundation, Scholarships for many boards, Habitat for Humanity, Treasurer for the Monmouth Ocean County Funeral Directors Association, St. Joseph Church Century Club, Lakehurst Manchester Historical Society, Ocean County Chamber of Commerce, Lifetime Member of Manchester Firehouse #1. I also participate in the Manchester and Jackson Veteran's Day Celebrations, host annual blood drives and sponsor-work with the Children's Memorial Garden. 

OGR: Is there anything else we should know about you? 

GO: I have the first and only funeral home/restaurant/care in New Jersey. We are the only licensed Life Celebration home in Ocean County.