NEWS
04/24/26
Empowering Futures: Financial Literacy Graduation & Generational Wealth Brunch at The Leaguers, Inc.
The Leaguers, Inc. proudly hosted a powerful and inspiring Financial Literacy Graduation alongside its Generational Wealth Brunch, an event centered on the theme “Empowering Futures, Building Wealth.” Families, staff, and community members gathered to celebrate growth, knowledge, and the commitment to creating stronger financial futures.
The event featured impactful speeches from Mr. Walter K. Frye, Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Quiera Evans, Chief Program Officer, and Mr. Faheem Pollard Director of Parent Family & Community Engagement. Each speaker emphasized the importance of financial education, generational wealth, and empowering families with the tools to make informed financial decisions.
Graduates of the financial literacy program were recognized for their dedication and achievements, marking an important milestone in their journey toward financial independence. The brunch setting created a warm and welcoming space for reflection, connection, and celebration.
This meaningful event was thoughtfully organized by Ms. Nelsa Martinez, Ms. Dawn Odom, both Parent involvement coordinator and Mr. Andrew Scotte, whose efforts ensured a memorable and impactful experience for all in attendance.
Through initiatives like this, The Leaguers, Inc. continues to uplift families and strengthen communities, one step, one lesson, and one success story at a time.
04/21/26
A Grand Finale: Parade of Creativity at The Leaguers, Inc. Broad Street Site
At 999 Broad Street, the Leaguers, Inc. proudly crowned the Week of the Young Child with a vibrant and heartwarming celebration that brought families and the community together.
Parents came out in full support, joining their children for a special day filled with creativity, pride, and joy. The highlight of the celebration was an exciting walk and parade through the streets of Newark, where children proudly showcased their artistic talents.
With colorful artwork and beautiful handmade crafts in hand, the children paraded with confidence and excitement, turning the streets into a moving gallery of creativity. Smiles, laughter, and cheers filled the air as families, staff, and community members celebrated the children’s hard work and imagination.
This unforgettable finale was more than just a parade, it was a powerful display of community, family engagement, and the importance of nurturing creativity in young learners. The Broad Street site truly ended the Week of the Young Child on a high note, leaving lasting memories for all who participated.
04/20/26
Celebrating Together: Week of the Young Child Finale at The Leaguers, Inc. Springfield Ave Site
At 302–324 Springfield Avenue, the Leaguers, Inc. brought the Week of the Young Child to a joyful and meaningful close with a special celebration filled with family, creativity, and community spirit.
Parents and families joined in to show their support, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that highlighted the importance of strong connections between home and school. Classrooms were filled with excitement as children and their families worked side by side on fun and engaging crafts, turning simple materials into beautiful keepsakes.
Laughter, conversation, and collaboration filled the space as parents bonded with their children and connected with staff, reinforcing the shared commitment to each child’s growth and success. The event served as a perfect reminder that when families and educators come together, children thrive.
The Springfield Avenue site truly crowned the Week of the Young Child with a celebration of unity, creativity, and love, leaving everyone with lasting memories and smiles.
04/15/26
Working Together for a Greener Future: Work Together Wednesday at The Leaguers, Inc.
At 999 Broad Street, the Leaguers, Inc. proudly partnered with the City of Newark to host an engaging and educational Work Together Wednesday.
The day was filled with meaningful, hands-on activities designed to teach children the importance of teamwork and environmental responsibility. One of the highlights was the “I Voted Green” activity, where children learned how small choices can make a big difference in protecting our planet.
Special guest Beelinda Bee brought energy and knowledge as she introduced the children to sustainability in a fun and interactive way. From learning how to care for the environment to understanding the importance of going green, the children were fully engaged and eager to participate.
Another exciting moment of the day was learning how to plant vegetables. With guidance and encouragement, the children got their hands in the soil, discovering how food grows and the value of nurturing plants. This hands-on experience not only sparked curiosity but also encouraged responsibility and patience.
The event was further enriched by the support and participation of Sakshi Dalmia, Tiffanx Modachwa, Mikayla Graffin, Rosyln Monz, Tuloni Thomas, and Nicloe Hewitt-Cabral, whose presence helped make the day even more impactful and inspiring.
Work Together Wednesday at the Broad Street site was a true reflection of collaboration, learning, and community. Through partnership and purposeful activities, the children walked away with valuable lessons about sustainability, teamwork, and caring for the world around them.
04/15/26
Tasty Tuesday with The Leaguers
The children gathered around tables filled with vibrant strawberries, juicy oranges, crisp apples, and soft bananas. With little hands carefully guided by their teachers, they learned how to safely cut and prepare their own healthy snacks. Each slice wasn’t just food, it was a moment of discovery, confidence, and joy.
Some children giggled as they tried new fruits for the very first time, their faces lighting up with surprise at the flavors. Others proudly showed off their neatly cut pieces, eager to share with their friends. The room buzzed with excitement as conversations flowed about colors, textures, and favorite tastes.
Teachers turned the activity into a fun learning experience, counting pieces, naming fruits, and talking about how healthy foods help their bodies grow strong. It wasn’t just about eating, it was about learning, sharing, and building independence.
By the end of the day, the tables were filled not only with delicious creations but also with smiles, teamwork, and a sense of accomplishment. At the 750 Clinton Ave site, Tasty Tuesday became more than an activity, it became a memory the children will carry with them, one sweet bite at a time.
04/14/26
Turning Up the Fun: Music Monday Lights Up The Leaguers Inc.
At 731 Clinton Ave, The Leaguers, Inc. came alive with energy and excitement as the children celebrated Music Monday, part of the Week of the Young Child. From the moment the music began, the atmosphere shifted, what was once a regular day quickly turned into a joyful celebration of sound, rhythm, and movement.
A live DJ filled the room with upbeat, child-friendly music, and one by one, the children made their way to the dance floor. Some clapped along to the beat, others jumped and twirled with big smiles, while a few showed off their best dance moves with confidence and pride. Laughter echoed through the space as staff joined in, encouraging the children to express themselves freely through music.
For many of the children, it was more than just dancing, it was a chance to build confidence, connect with friends, and experience the joy of creative expression. Music became a bridge that brought everyone together, creating a sense of community and celebration.
As the day went on, it was clear that Music Monday was not just an activity, but a meaningful experience. It highlighted the importance of play, creativity, and engagement in early childhood development, reminding everyone that learning can be joyful, loud, and full of life.
03/23/26
Read Across America - Read-aloud Session
Today at The Leaguers, Inc. (1111 Chandler Ave, Roselle), our children enjoyed a fun and enriching experience filled with stories and music!
Ms. Ginger Moore, a librarian from the Linden Public Library, captivated the children with a delightful read-aloud session that sparked their imagination and love for books.
We were also excited to welcome Mr. Napoleon Ricks, who brought his guitar and filled the room with music. He played, sang, and engaged the children in a lively musical experience.
Throughout the week, the children explored different musical instruments, learning how they sound and how to play them. They had a wonderful time experimenting with instruments and singing along to the music.
03/23/26
Implemented a Language & Literacy Pilot Lunch and Learn training at the Leaguers Inc.
The Leaguers Inc., located at 999 Broad Street, successfully implemented a Language & Literacy Pilot Lunch and Learn training for teaching staff, along with a Literacy Parent Training for families at the site.
The sessions were led by Jennifer Jirinec, General Manager for Lakeshore Learning Center, who provided engaging, hands-on strategies to support early language development and literacy skills.
Teaching staff gained practical tools to enhance classroom instruction, while families were empowered with techniques to support reading and language development at home, strengthening the connection between school and family learning environments.
03/19/26
Healthy Kids, Healthy Minds
At the 405 University Avenue site of The Leaguers Inc., our children took a fun break from their daily learning to focus on something just as important—exercise and movement. With the message “Healthy Kids, Healthy Minds – All work and no play is not the way!”, the children enjoyed a short session of stretching and simple exercises.
The activity encouraged students to stay active, build healthy habits, and understand that taking time to move their bodies helps their minds stay sharp and ready to learn. Laughter and excitement filled the space as the children jumped, stretched, and enjoyed the moment together.
At The Leaguers Inc., we believe that balancing learning with physical activity helps children grow stronger, happier, and more focused every day.
03/14/26
Celebrating Read Across America at 1111 Chancellor Avenue
The 1111 Chancellor Avenue site proudly celebrated Read Across America Day with a heartwarming and inspiring event that brought together families, staff, and community leaders to promote the joy of reading. Our special guest readers made the day truly memorable. Rev. Dr. Brenda Stamper captivated the children with her expressive storytelling and words of encouragement, reminding them that books can take them anywhere their imagination dares to go.
We were also honored to have Mr. Oscar Celi, a proud dad and parent, share a wonderful story with the children. His participation highlighted the importance of parental involvement and showed our students that reading is a powerful activity families can enjoy together. Adding to the excitement, Chadwick Antonio, one of our dedicated staff members, brought energy and enthusiasm to the reading session, engaging the children with animated voices and interactive questions that kept everyone smiling.
Throughout the day, students listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions, and expressed their excitement about their favorite books. The celebration reinforced the importance of literacy, family engagement, and community partnership in supporting early childhood development. At 1111 Chancellor Avenue, we continue to nurture a love for reading, knowing that today’s readers are tomorrow’s leaders.
03/12/26
Black History Month Celebration at Orange Street
The Orange Street site of The Leaguers Inc. proudly observed Black History Month with a vibrant celebration filled with music, learning, and strong parent participation. The building was beautifully decorated with red, black, and green accents, inspiring quotes, and student artwork honoring the legacy of African American leaders and trailblazers.
Families gathered with excitement as the program began with uplifting music that brought energy and joy to the room. The children confidently took the stage, performing songs and reciting poems that reflected themes of unity, courage, and pride. Their voices echoed with enthusiasm as they honored influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman.
Some children dressed as historical leaders, sharing short presentations about their contributions to civil rights, freedom, and equality. Through music and creative expression, the students demonstrated not only their knowledge but also their appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements that continue to shape our society.
Parents proudly applauded, recorded performances, and celebrated alongside staff, making the event a true reflection of community partnership. The celebration highlighted The Leaguers Inc.’s commitment to educating young minds while strengthening family engagement and cultural awareness.
The Black History Month observance at Orange Street was more than a program, it was a meaningful experience that brought families together, honored history, and inspired the next generation to dream boldly and lead with purpose.
03/10/26
Black History Month Celebration at 10–12 Marshall Street
The 10–12 Marshall Street site of The Leaguers Inc. came alive with joy, culture, and celebration as families gathered to observe Black History Month. The hallways were beautifully decorated with vibrant colors, powerful quotes, and images honoring influential African American leaders who shaped history through courage, resilience, and excellence.
Parents filled the room with pride and excitement as the children took center stage. The program began with uplifting music that set the tone for an inspiring afternoon. Songs celebrating unity, strength, and heritage echoed throughout the building, reminding everyone of the richness of Black culture and history.
The children confidently performed, some dressed as historical figures, sharing short presentations about leaders who made a lasting impact in civil rights, education, science, and the arts. Their voices were filled with enthusiasm as they spoke about Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman. Through poems, songs, and creative expressions, the children demonstrated not only what they had learned, but also their understanding of the importance of equality, courage, and community.
Parents proudly recorded the performances, clapping and cheering as each child showcased their talent. The event reflected the mission of The Leaguers Inc. to educate, empower, and strengthen families while celebrating culture and community.
The Black History Month observance at 10–12 Marshall Street was truly a meaningful and heartwarming experience, bringing together families, staff, and children in unity, leaving everyone inspired, informed, and proud.
02/25/26
182 Van Buren Street Celebrates 100 Days of School with Creativity, Growth, and Joy at The Leaguers Inc.!
The 182 Van Buren Street site of The Leaguers Inc. celebrated a major milestone, 100 Days of School—with the engaging “My 100 Days at School” program.
Students participated in creative, hands-on activities such as counting 100 objects, making special art projects, and sharing what they’ve learned during their first 100 days. The celebration highlighted both academic growth and the excitement of learning in a fun and supportive environment.
Families and staff joined in the festivities, cheering on the students’ accomplishments and reflecting on their progress since the start of the school year. At The Leaguers Inc., the 100th day of school is more than a number, it’s a celebration of curiosity, achievement, and the bright future ahead.
02/25/26
1111 Chandler Avenue Celebrates 100 Days of Learning, Creativity, and Achievement at The Leaguers Inc.!
The 1111 Chandler Avenue site of The Leaguers Inc. proudly celebrated 100 Days of School with a fun and educational program called “My 100 Days at School”.
Our young learners engaged in creative and hands-on activities, including counting 100 objects, making special art projects, and sharing what they’ve learned over their first 100 days. The event highlighted not only academic growth but also the excitement and joy of learning in a supportive environment.
Families and staff joined the celebration, applauding the students’ accomplishments and reflecting on how much they’ve grown since the start of the school year. At The Leaguers Inc., milestones like the 100th day are a celebration of curiosity, achievement, and the bright journey ahead.
02/25/26
Celebrating 100 Days of Learning, Growth, and Achievement at The Judith Diggs Site!
The Judith Diggs Site at 302–316 16th Avenue of The Leaguers Inc. celebrated a milestone—100 Days of School! Our young learners proudly showcased their creativity, knowledge, and accomplishments through the “My 100 Days at School” activities.
Students engaged in fun, hands-on projects such as counting 100 items, creating special art, and sharing what they’ve learned in their first 100 days. The celebration highlighted both academic growth and the joy of learning in a supportive, creative environment.
Families and staff joined in the excitement, cheering on the students’ achievements and reflecting on the journey so far. At The Leaguers Inc., milestones like the 100th day of school are more than numbers, they’re a celebration of curiosity, growth, and the bright future ahead.
02/16/26
Black History Day at The Leaguers Inc.
Judith Diggs Site was a powerful and joyful celebration of culture, excellence, and inspiration. At 302 16th Ave in Newark, our children proudly took the stage dressed as legendary athletes who changed the game and made history.
From Serena Williams showing strength and determination, to Jackie Robinson breaking barriers in baseball, our little stars brought history to life. We also saw amazing tributes to Simone Biles and Muhammad Ali, reminding everyone that courage, discipline, and confidence can change the world.
Through songs, presentations, and creative costumes, the children demonstrated that Black history is not only about the past—it is about inspiring the future.
At The Leaguers, we are proud to nurture young minds to dream big, work hard, and believe they too can become legends.
02/14/26
"My Special Day" at Bakery Village
At The Leaguers Inc. families gathered at Bakery Village, as love filled the hallways for a special Valentine’s Day celebration titled “My Special Day…”
The room was beautifully decorated with hearts, handmade cards, and smiling faces. One by one, children proudly stood up to share who their mothers are.
“My Mother is a Nurse.”
“My Mother is a teacher.”
“My Mother is my Hero.”
“My Mother is my Best Friend.”
Some mothers blushed with joy, others wiped away happy tears as they listened to the sweet words spoken straight from their children’s hearts. The celebration was more than just Valentine’s Day, it was a tribute to the strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers in our community.
At Bakery Village, The Leaguers Inc. once again created a space where families felt appreciated, children felt proud, and love was the center of it all.
The Leaguers Inc. organized Professional Development Training for staff
At Leaguers Inc., growth and learning are not just priorities for the children we serve, they are equally important for our staff. Last week, the organization hosted a dynamic Professional Development Training that brought together Educators, Food Service Workers, and the Family Services Department for a day of learning, collaboration, and inspiration.
The training kicked off with an interactive session for teaching staff, where participants shared experiences, exchanged ideas, and engaged in hands-on activities designed to strengthen behavior management techniques in the classroom.
Meanwhile, our Food Service Workers participated in a focused workshop emphasizing kitchen safety and proper knife skills, reinforcing our commitment to ensuring staff are well-versed in best practices that promote safety and efficiency.
The Family Services Department also took part in Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) Essentials – Child Wellness Visits training. During this session, staff deepened their understanding of comprehensive preventive health services that support children’s overall well-being and help identify, prevent, and reduce potential health and developmental challenges early on.
Participants left feeling empowered, motivated, and more connected to their shared mission of providing exceptional care, education, and support to every child and family.
“My Father Is…” – A Day of Pride, Love, and Connection
It was a morning filled with anticipation, laughter, and pride. Across all 15 Leaguers Inc. sites, children waited eagerly for a special moment, the day their fathers would walk into their classrooms and show the world who they are.
The My Father Is… Annual Program isn’t just an event. It’s a celebration of fathers, of presence, and of the quiet, powerful ways they shape their children’s lives. That day, classrooms transformed. Fathers shared their stories, their passions, their skills. Some spoke about building, creating, or helping others. Some demonstrated talents their children had only ever admired from afar. And everywhere, there were smiles, wide, proud smiles, on both fathers’ and children’s faces.
For many students, it was the first time seeing their fathers in this light, not just as parents, but as mentors, role models, and sources of inspiration. Eyes lit up, hands clutched proudly, and hearts swelled with love and admiration. “That’s my dad!” echoed across rooms as children introduced their fathers to friends, classmates, and teachers.
Across the 15 sites, the energy was the same, pure joy, connection, and pride. Fathers weren’t just participating; they were showing up in a way that left a lasting impression on their children. And the children, in turn, felt seen, valued, and inspired.
The My Father Is… program reminded everyone why fatherhood matters. It’s in these moments, the stories shared, the laughter, the applause, that children learn what it means to care, to lead, and to dream. It’s a day of connection, but its impact lasts far longer, echoing in the lives of the children and families who are fortunate to be part of The Leaguers Inc. community.
That day, one thing was clear: fathers’ matter. And when they show up, children rise.
Dental Screen at The Leaguers Inc. (Orange Street Site)
The Leaguers Inc. hosted a Dental Screening at the Orange Street site, providing oral dental examinations for children. The screening helped identify early dental concerns, promote healthy oral habits, and support children’s overall well-being.
