Ocean County Family Success Center Launches a Parent Advisory Board

The Children's Home Society (CHS of NJ) has opened and will manage their third Family Success Center, the Ocean County Family Success Center, a non-profit organization funded by the Department of Children and Families to prevent child abuse.  

On May 29 they welcomed the start of its first Parent Advisory Board. 

"Under the principles of family support and with the framework of the Five Protective Factors, eight members representing various segments of our rich diverse community in Ocean County, including grandparents, made the first step towards a commitment of shared leadership at the center by officially becoming members of the board," said Asia Martin, Family Partner Specialist of Ocean County Family Success Center.

New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Division of Prevention and Community Partnerships provide grants to offer primary prevention services. Martin said, "The Ocean County Family Success Center (OCFSC)stands out for its unique approach of working directly with the NJ Strengthening Families Initiative (NJSFI).  The OCFSC is working collaboratively with several childcare centers and childcare providers to bring 10 core FSC services to these participating sites.  Equally as important is the OCFSC’s active participation with center director’s across the county.  Center Directors affiliated with the OCFSC will be meeting on a quarterly basis, while PAB members will meet on a monthly basis."

Martin added, "The role of the Parent Advisory Board members will be to enhance capacity at the center by supporting the growth and development of all family members including adults, youth and children. Members will also ensure that programs are embedded in their communities and serve as a voice for those who are in need of a safety net".

One of the Parent Advisory members, Annisha Murdoch, said, “I am really looking forward to being a part of this group.  It feels like a way to stay connected to community trends and a way help others.” Annisha's motivation to volunteer her time on the PAB is driven by her passion to give back to the community for a worthy cause.

Families are invited to stop by the newest Ocean Count Family Success Center which is located at 1433 Hooper Ave #121, Toms River, NJ 08753.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. with some evening and weekend events. 

A calendar of events will be posted on the CHS of NJ website (www.chsofnj.org) each month.  

Anyone interested in joining our Parent Advisory Board, or for additional information, please call (732) 557-5037.