North Ward Center Inc

Overview

The North Ward Center Inc. is a nonprofit, community development organization located in Newark, New Jersey. Founded in 1970 by Stephen N. Adubato Sr., the organization primarily serves the North Ward of Newark with a mission to build a better community by educating, advocating, and empowering families[1][3].

History

The North Ward Center was initially known as the North Ward Educational and Cultural Center and began operations in a storefront on Bloomfield Avenue in Newark. The center's establishment was motivated by the 1967 Newark riots, which led to significant population changes in the city[1][4]. It was established to support the North Ward's predominantly Italian-American population at the time but later shifted its focus to serve a predominantly Puerto Rican community in the mid-to-late 1970s[1].

In 1973, the organization acquired the historic Clark Mansion on Mt. Prospect Avenue, which previously housed the Prospect Country and Day School. Despite being damaged by lightning in 1976, the building was refurbished and serves as the center's administrative offices today[1]. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Programs

• Education and Child Development: The North Ward Center operates five preschools, serving over 680 children, including a privately run preschool called Forest Hills Child Development Center[1]. In 1975, the North Ward Child Development Center was established.
• Health Services: The center manages the Casa Israel Adult Medical Day Care Center, which provides services to about 120 individuals daily[1].
• Community Services: It includes a Family Success Center, a Center for Autism, and a youth leadership and recreation program offering sports leagues to about 2,500 youth[1].
• Robert Treat Academy Charter School: Founded by the North Ward Center in 1997, the school is part of its broader educational initiatives[1].

Leadership

The organization was founded by Stephen N. Adubato Sr. and is currently led by his daughter, Michele Adubato, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer[1][3].

Financials

As a 501(c)(3) organization, donations to the North Ward Center are tax-deductible. Its revenue primarily comes from contributions and investment income, with significant expenditures in salaries and wages for its employees[2]. The organization has substantial assets, which enable it to provide a wide range of community services.

Impact

The North Ward Center serves approximately 10,500 people annually, playing a crucial role in community development and social services in Newark[1]. Its mission to empower families and strengthen the community reflects its commitment to improving quality of life for local residents.