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More than four dozen children from Newark enjoyed a classic summertime carnival complete with a clown, magician, face painting, popcorn and cotton candy at the North Ward Center’s Family Success Center.
The June 29 carnival kicked off a series of free child-friendly events to be held every Wednesday during the summer at the Family Success Center on Mt. Prospect Avenue. Upcoming activities include movie night, jewelry making, Zumba, sewing and arts and crafts.
“Parents are home with their children over the summer and they often don’t have anything to do with them,” said Vanessa Bohler, the director of the Family Success Center. “We offer a safe and fun environment for children whose parents may not be able to afford to take them to an amusement park or the beach for a day.”
Magician Tommy Knucklehead entertains children at The North Ward Center's Family Success Center's Summer Carnival
One of the goals of the Family Success Center is to help families avoid instances of abuse. Bringing parents and children together in fun activities is one way to achieve that goal, Bohler said.
“Often because parents don’t have the finances to take their children to activities, they may feel frustrated and often the children end up being the brunt of the frustration,” Bohler said. “Parents say this is a place where they can come and relax and also have fun. It really helps to reduce the level of stress.”
Ramona Pickhard and her four children woke up early and rode two buses from Newark’s South Ward to attend the carnival.
“I appreciate that they allow us to attend this function because there are not a lot of things to do in the South Ward for children,” Pickhard said. “The kids really like coming here. It’s a positive atmosphere. They get to have fun. They don’t have to worry about defending themselves. They can actually enjoy themselves. They call it their little getaway.”
Maddy Valle, who came to the carnival with her three children ranging in age from 8 to 12, said she doesn’t have the means to take her children to many places during the summer.
“I don’t have a car or a job,” Valle said. “It’s hard for me to take them to Great Adventure. This is so close.”
Valle said coming to the Family Success Center is like going to a family get together.
“We already know each other from previous classes and events,” Valle said. “My three children were looking forward to coming here today. The children feel at home here. It’s good to see the kids happy.”
Maria Acevedo, who has custody of her nine-year old grandson, said she was reluctant at to come to the Family Success Center when she was first invited. Now she brings her grandson to every event.
“Every time I come here, they have something different for the children,” Acevedo said. “My grandson enjoys it so much. I feel it’s a safe place for him.”
Adrianne Davis, the executive director of The North Ward Center, said the Family Success Center’s reputation has grown throughout the community as a safe haven for families.
“The Family Success Center is providing an invaluable service to the community,” Davis said. “Nothing is more important than ensuring that the family unit is functioning.”
Stephen N. Adubato, the founder of The North Ward Center, said residents of the community should feel free to visit the Family Success Center anytime.
“They are a tremendous resource for families in crisis,” Adubato said. “They can help get a family back on track.”
The North Ward Center's Family Success program started in June 2007 and is one of 37 such sites in the state. Family success centers are open to any member of the community seeking support, information, and services.
