West Caldwell, NJ, Jan 23 -

The Community Education Centers’ Alumni Association participated in a day of service to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at The New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey on January 23. The event began with a breakfast at the New Hope church and opening remarks from Pastor Joe A. Carter and Tim William, CEC alumni. The New Hope Baptist Church Dance Ministry then performed traditional African dances.

“It is always an honor to participate in events that remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and today’s event was no exception.  I would like to thank Pastor Carter for opening his heart and church for this event,” said Arthur Townes, Director of the CEC Alumni Association.

The New Hope Baptist Church Dance Ministry was followed by two keynote speakers, Cornell William Brooks, Esq., Executive Director of the New Jersey Institute of Social Justice, and Nicole B. Simpson, motivational speaker who both spoke about the legacy of justice and equality set forth by Dr. King.  All were then invited to participate in a community service project to clean up the area surrounding the church.

The CEC Alumni Association is comprised of former offenders who have successfully completed a CEC reentry treatment program. The Alumni Association assists these ex-offenders in their transition from treatment back into the community. As mentors, alumni are available to offenders, before and after release, to provide referral assistance and encourage them to set goals, find jobs, and utilize social services.

The Alumni Association holds monthly meetings at CEC’s New Jersey facilities, including Tully House, Delaney Hall, Talbot Hall, Logan Hall and Bo Robinson, as well as Coleman Hall and Hoffman Hall located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. During the meetings, alumni return to speak with current residents and share stories about their journey toward successful community reentry.