NJCDC Celebrates 30 Years with Friends

Watch our Friends Breakfast video

View our Friends Breakfast photos on Flickr.com

On Thursday, December 5, NJCDC held its 30th Anniversary Friends Breakfast at its favorite venue of all — The Brownstone. This intimate gathering of supporters and partners, one of several events commemorating NJCDC’s three decades of service to the community, brought together a dynamic group of leaders, supporters, and friends, all united in their commitment to Paterson’s future.

The Friends Breakfast, last held in 2019 for NJCDC’s 25th anniversary, has always been a special opportunity for NJCDC to bring together its supporters to reflect on shared achievements and renew its commitment to Paterson’s future. This year’s breakfast was extra special, as it celebrated 30 years of creating opportunities and transforming lives.

A Celebration of Community and Partnership

The morning began with a warm welcome from Eddie Gonzalez, NJCDC’s Special Assistant to the CEO/Director of Community Outreach, who also played a C-SPAN video of Senator George Helmy making remarks on the floor of the United States Senate paying tribute to NJCDC and Founder and CEO Bob Guarasci. Guests then heard from Bob himself, who reflected on NJCDC’s 30-year journey, highlighting the organization’s unwavering dedication to Paterson and the collective efforts of its partners. “Through your dedication, resources, and compassion, there is so much hope for Paterson,” Bob said. “Hope especially abounds in the work of our nonprofit sector and all those who support it.”

Bob then introduced NJCDC’s 30th Anniversary Video, which brought to life so much of the work we do each and every day. The video further illustrated NJCDC’s profound impact over the years, showcasing heartfelt stories of transformation.

After a short break for breakfast, attendees heard from Mayor Andre Sayegh, who spoke with great joy about all Bob and NJCDC have accomplished since 1994. Next, Council President Alex Mendez and Councilwoman-At-Large Maritza Davila acknowledged NJCDC’s pivotal role in uplifting Paterson residents and presented Bob with a framed copy of the recent City Council resolution recognizing NJCDC's 30th Anniversary.

Bob then presented a few gifts of his own — framed certificates to Mayor Sayegh and Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly expressing NJCDC’s gratitude for their steadfast support of the organization.

Stories of Resilience and Achievement

For many, the highlight of the event was hearing from NJCDC program alumni who shared how the organization has shaped their lives. Christian Callegari, an NJCDC program alum and former Paterson Youth Council President, reflected on his journey from a program participant to a member of NJCDC’s Board of Trustees. He spoke passionately about how NJCDC nurtured his leadership skills and instilled a deep commitment to service. Appointed to the Board in 2023, Christian has remained an active advocate for Paterson’s youth, continuing to give back to the community that shaped him. His story is a powerful testament to NJCDC’s impact on cultivating leaders who inspire and uplift others.

Mariajose “MJ” Ramirez, originally from Colombia, spoke about her journey to the United States and how NJCDC gave her family a sense of community and belonging. Now a psychology student at Passaic County Community College, MJ credited NJCDC with providing life-changing opportunities, including over 500 hours of community service and visits to Washington, D.C., and Ivy League universities. “Thanks to NJCDC,” she said, “I’ve been able to dream bigger and achieve more.”

Xavier Clavijo, a Paterson native and first-generation college student, reflected on his experience with NJCDC’s Paterson Youth Council. Xavier, now a sophomore at William Paterson University, shared how the program helped him develop leadership skills and a passion for community service: “NJCDC gave me the tools to succeed and to give back to others.”

These stories are a testament to the transformative power of NJCDC’s work and the lasting impact it has on young lives.

Looking Ahead

As NJCDC continues its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Friends Breakfast served as a reminder of the power of community and collaboration. In his closing remarks, which were complemented by a special anniversary cake, Bob emphasized that the work to create opportunities and transform lives in Paterson is ongoing, urging partners and supporters to continue building a brighter future together.

This event was one of many ways NJCDC has celebrated its milestone year, and the organization remains deeply grateful to its friends and partners who have been instrumental in its journey. With 30 years of impact to reflect on, NJCDC looks ahead to the future with optimism and determination.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special event and for your continued support of NJCDC’s mission. Together, we can create a stronger, brighter future for Paterson. As NJCDC looks toward the next 30 years, it remains steadfast in its commitment to creating opportunities and transforming lives in Paterson.