(Paramus, NJ) May 2, 2018 – Children’s Aid and Family Services recently opened its STRIVE Day Program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. STRIVE is located at the agency’s Paramus facility on 200 Robin Road in newly remodeled space that features dedicated life skills, technology, and arts and crafts centers, and a commercial kitchen. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation, along with the Alfiero and Lucia Palestroni Foundation, provided funding for the renovations.
The program emphasizes participation in community-based activities to help build socialization and life skills. Members of STRIVE volunteer at the Fair Lawn Library and the Bergen County Zoo, as well as visit the local malls and eat together at area restaurants. At the age of 21, school ends for people with developmental disabilities. For those adults that are unable to work, day programs play a vital role in their continued development.
“Children’s Aid and Family Services has been opening community homes for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Bergen and Passaic counties since 2012,” says Joanne Mandry, President & CEO. “We’ve seen the need firsthand for quality day programming that promotes personal choice and community engagement. We are extremely grateful to The William Randolph Hearst Foundation and The Alfiero and Lucia Palestroni Foundation for helping us fill this tremendous need by providing a beautiful, modern space for those we serve.”
About The Hearst Foundations
The Hearst Foundations are national philanthropic resources for organizations working in the fields of culture, education, health and social services. The Hearst Foundations identify and fund outstanding nonprofits to ensure that people of all backgrounds in the United States have the opportunity to build healthy, productive and inspiring lives.
About Children’s Aid and Family Services
Children’s Aid and Family Services is a leading nonprofit human services organization serving northern New Jersey. The agency is fully accredited and has served the community for nearly 120 years. Its mission is to preserve, protect, and when needed, provide families. Motivated by compassion and in partnership with the community, we make positive lasting differences in the lives of those we serve. We provide high quality, innovative services to children and their families that advance social, educational and emotional development and wellbeing. For more information on Children’s Aid and Family Services, call 201.261.2800 or visit www.cafsnj.org.