Centennial Gala Friday, September 18, 2026 6:00 - 10:00pm Brookside Banquet Hall, 41 Broughton Avenue, Bloomfield, NJ
Program Meet & Greet Music by Sir Jay Clay Violinist Welcome: Edward Nicholas Opening Remarks: Dwayne DJ Beloved Tennant Board President’s Vision: Camille Colston Buffet Style Dinner Keynote Speaker: Mayor Renee Baskerville Honoree Presentations to: Councilor Aminah Toler Victor Demming Stanley White (posthumous) The Do Drop In Address from Executive Director: Avissa Beek-Peniston Chance Auction Announcement: Ayana Stewart-Hartsfield Closing Remarks: Dwayne DJ Beloved Tennant Closing Reception: Music by DJ Kevin Chillis
Dear Honored Guests, Families, and Community Partners, On behalf of the Board of Directors, it is my distinct honor and privilege as Board President to welcome you as we celebrate a remarkable century of service: the 100th Anniversary of the Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center (NCICC). For 100 years, the NCICC, also lovingly known as “The Center” has served as a cornerstone of early childhood education, commitment, and nurture. Founded on the belief that every child deserves a safe, enriching environment in which to learn, play, and thrive, The Center has evolved from a small community initiative into a vital institution for families across our community. Reaching our Centennial is a profound milestone—one that honors the visionary spirit of our founders, the dedication of our educators and staff, and the enduring trust of the generations of families who have walked through our doors. Over the past century, countless children have taken their very first educational steps at NCICC, laying a foundation for lifelong learning, leadership, and success. The Center has also served as a point of community gatherings and communication in Montclair’s beloved 4th Ward. This extraordinary legacy has only been possible through the unwavering support of our donors, partners, and community allies who share our deep commitment to early childhood development. As we look back on our rich history with deep gratitude, we also step into our next century with great excitement and purpose. Our mission remains as crucial today as it was in 1926: to provide compassionate, high-quality care that uplifts children, strengthens families, and builds a brighter collective future. Thank you for celebrating this historic milestone with us, for believing in our mission, and for investing in the future of the children we serve. Here is to honoring 100 years of impact—and to inspiring the next century ahead. With warm regards and appreciation,
Camille Colston
President, Board of Directors Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center, Inc.
A Word from the
Executive Director As I reflect on where it all started and where we are today, I find myself thinking about the dash: “–” That small mark between two dates represents so much. It holds the work, the people, the challenges, the victories, the faith, and all the moments that make up a life and a legacy. As we celebrate 100 years of the Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center, I feel blessed to reflect on all that has happened in “the dash.” My journey with The Center began 48 years ago, on July 10, 1978, when I started as a teacher’s assistant. Back then, we had only three rooms: what is now the infant room, Group Two, and the multipurpose room we now call the auditorium. There was even a credit union in the space that is now my office. I had no idea how much this place would become part of my life. I learned from Ms. Anna Coleman, William Wilkerson, Executive Director Marion Waples, and committed volunteers who worked tirelessly to grow the program. As more families needed our services, they did whatever it took- card parties, chicken dinners, even off-Broadway shows like The Rockaway Review- to raise money and build for the future. They taught me something I have carried ever since: “Faith without works is dead.” They believed in the mission, and they put the work behind that belief. As The Center grew from three rooms to six classrooms, I grew with it. Then, on November 2, 2001, I sat down in what I called “the hot seat” and became Executive Director. There were enormous challenges, especially financially. There were moments when I asked God, “Why me?” We were expected to move mountains with very little assistance. But somehow, when we needed it, people showed up. The United Way, Junior League, Schumann Foundation, and Montclair Foundation provided critical support. Through the thick and thin, the Neighborhood Council and my dedicated team stood with me. I often say in our staff meetings, “There is no me without you.” I mean that with my whole heart. There is no Executive Director without
teachers and staff who show up for our children. There is no Center without families who trust us with the most precious people in their lives. And there is no 100-year legacy without volunteers, board members, neighbors, donors, community partners, and generations of people who decided this place was worth fighting for. There is certainly no me without my own family, who learned long ago that we eat, sleep, and drink “The Center.” I am proud of what we have accomplished together: from achieving national accreditation through NAEYC and recognition through New Jersey’s Grow NJ Kids to watching children grow up and return as volunteers, employees, and parents with families of their own. Over these 48 years, the difficult seasons taught me faith, and the good seasons taught me gratitude. All of it taught me that no one sustains a place like this alone. When I think about The Center’s 100 years, I think about the people who cooked chicken dinners, sold tickets, taught children, balanced budgets, advocated when resources were scarce, comforted parents, wiped tears, gave hugs, opened the doors each morning, and locked them again at night. That is what fills the dash. One day, someone else will sit in the “hot seat.” My prayer is that they inherit more than classrooms, programs, and a building. I hope they inherit the faith, determination, love, and responsibility that have sustained this place for a century. Celebrating 100 years is not simply about how long The Center has been here. It is about making sure The Center is here for children and families who have not even been born yet. That is the legacy we inherited. That is the legacy we are building. And for as long as the Good Lord gives me strength, I will keep doing my part to fill the dash. With love and gratitude, Avissa Beek-Peniston Executive Director Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center
A Century of Community Care: The History of the Neighborhood Center (1926-2026) The Neighborhood Center began in 1926 as the Montclair Junior League Community House, a modest but visionary effort to support local families. The League rented the basement and first floor of a home owned by an Italian family, transforming the space into two classrooms and multipurpose rooms. By day, children learned and played; by evening, adults gathered for clubs, community meetings, and English classes for newly arrived Italian immigrants. What started as a humble neighborhood initiative quickly grew into a trusted institution known for warmth, stability, and high-quality early childhood education. Early Beginnings (1928-1945) By 1928, the growing demand for services made expansion essential. After extensive discussion and fundraising, the League purchased a frame house and adjacent lot. A stucco addition soon followed, including an auditorium that seated 200 people with a stage and removable seating- an important gathering place for the community. In 1940, the Neighborhood Council was formed as an advisory body to the Community Center, strengthening its governance and community ties. By June 1945, the Council and the Community Center united under one roof in a newly constructed brick building. During this era, Neighborhood Child Care emerged at a time when childcare options were scarce, especially for working mothers. The Center became a safe haven where children received nurturing care, meals, and early learning experiences in a home-like environment. Families affectionately described it as a place where “the neighborhood raises its children.” On June 8, 1949, the Neighborhood Council Federal Credit Union received its official charter under the Federal Credit Union Act, further expanding the Center’s role in supporting family stability and financial well-being. A Turning Point (1953) A pivotal moment came in 1953 when the Neighborhood Council purchased the building outright. From that point forward, the Council became the Center’s strongest supporter, mentor, and steward. Their commitment to maintaining the building and ensuring compliance with State Licensing requirements has allowed the Center to remain a safe, stable, and welcoming environment for generations. Growth and Expansion (1960s-1970s) As Montclair’s population grew and family needs evolved, the Center expanded from its original two rooms into a larger program with multiple classrooms. Infant care, toddler care, and preschool programs were added, making the Center one of the few in the region offering a full continuum of early childhood services.
The burning of the mortgage in August 1970 symbolized both financial stability and the community’s deep investment in the Center’s future. During these decades, the Center strengthened its identity as a community anchor-supporting generations of families, many of whom returned as parents, volunteers, or staff. The Center also played an active role in broader community initiatives, including the Neighborhood Council and the Credit Union, helping families thrive beyond the classroom. A Legacy of Educators and Leadership (2000s-Present) In the modern era, NCICC has been shaped by dedicated educators and leaders who have upheld its mission while advancing professional standards in early childhood education. Under the leadership of Executive Director Avissa Beek Peniston, the Center achieved National Accreditation through NAEYC, a milestone reflecting its commitment to excellence, developmentally appropriate practice, and culturally responsive care. NCICC is also a Star Rated program with the New Jersey State Grow NJ Kids using the Environmental Rating System (ECERS), Infant Environmental System (ITERS). The program expanded to six classrooms serving infants through preschoolers and adopted researchbased curricula such as The Creative Curriculum and Tools of the Mind, supporting social-emotional development, executive functioning, and joyful learning. NCICC also partners with the Montclair Board of Education through Universal Pre-K (Mini Mounties) and currently operates two UPK classrooms. Investments in the physical environment have strengthened the program’s quality: a multipurpose room for indoor gross motor play, an enhanced backyard play space, and regular nature walks in nearby Glenfield Park. The Center’s industrial kitchen continues its long tradition of preparing home-cooked meals on site nourishing children with breakfast, lunch, and snacks as part of its whole-child philosophy. A Community Treasure Affectionately known as “the best kept secret in Montclair,” NCICC has served thousands of children over the decades. Many alumni have become educators, community leaders, business owners, and public servants and often return to visit, volunteer, or enroll their own children. The Center’s longevity is a testament to its core values: stability, nurturing relationships, cultural pride, and a deep belief that every child deserves a safe and loving place to grow. Looking Ahead to the 100th Anniversary As NCICC celebrates its 100th anniversary, the Center remains committed to honoring its past while preparing for the future. Its focus continues to be high-quality early learning, family partnership, staff development, and community advocacy. The legacy built over a century guides its mission: to be a home away from home where children are known, loved, and supported in becoming confident, capable learners. The celebration would not be complete without the alumni who shaped this story. We invite you to join us in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building a future worthy of the generations yet to come. Together, let’s make this 100-year celebration an evening to remember.
HISTORY OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION 1949-1999
It began as a show of community spirit following World War II. Local neighborhoods were introduced to the idea of buying farmers market purchases in bulk for savings. This new purchasing power became known as Cooperative Buying. The success of this project proved group action at its best and led to a plan for membership involvement in incorporating the Neighborhood Council and eventually purchasing 30 Maple Avenue, Montclair as its permanent site. The Federal Government allowed the creation of an alternative to the regular banking system. It became known as membership owned Credit Unions. This energized community group decided to take a giant step. Edythe Sydnor recalls “we were turned down twice. First they said our bond was not strong enough. Usually Credit Unions are based out of churches or businesses. Ours was made up of a small group of neighbors living in the lower end of the Township of Montclair, NJ and they felt our membership was too low. A membership drive was conducted and we applied again. This time they told us that we would have to prove that we were capable of keeping the membership. We did and on the third try, we were approved. On June 8, 1949 the NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION received its approval of organization certificate under the Federal Credit Union Act.” June 22, 1949 marks the date when credit union incorporators C. Robert Alexander, Frank Brown, Raymond Johnson, Howard Pardee, and Hugh Morris convened the organization meeting of the NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION at 8 p.m. in the Neighborhood Center building. Edythe Sydnor recorded the official minutes of the meeting in her role as Acting Secretary. Rank and file members of the Neighborhood Council, Inc. whose votes were authorized as potential members at that initial meeting were Elizabeth Baker, Lottie Blanchard, Sarah Christmas, Fannie Downey, Alice A. Garner, Harold Gregory, Dorland Henderson, Dorothea Marston, Pearl Richardson, Harry Smithers, Alfred Tyson, Robert Welborn, George Wibecan, Reche Willoughby, and Jessie Woltz. Defining the purpose of the NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION as “promoting thrift among its members by affording them an opportunity for accumulating their savings; and to create for them a source of credit for provident or productive purposes” is still applicable today. Small loans granted in the beginning for needed appliances have grown to loans for 1999 cars, education, medical expense, vacations, etc. at low interest rates. Today, this Credit Union can boast of three generation members. In preparation for this celebration our research shows that this Credit Union is the oldest financial institution, operating under the same name and location in the Township of Montclair. All others of record have made some change.
In Memory of q
Mrs. Marion S. Waples former Executive Director of the Neighborhood Child Care Center
In Memory of q
Ms. Anna Coleman former President of the Neighborhood Council Inc.
Congratulations to the
Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center on your 100 years of service to the Montclair Center and vicinity.
We members of the Montclair Neighborhood Development Center “Do Drop In” Senior Program wish you continued success in the years to come.
Congratulations to the Neighborhood Center in Celebration of your 100 years celebration. In Honor of the Late Lincoln Turner who was a long-standing member of the Neighborhood Council and the Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center. Mrs. Sharon Burton Turner
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER FOR 100 YEARS OF DEDICATED COMMUNITY SERVICE
Valley Road Montclair, NJ 07043613 Valley Road Montclair, NJ 07043 973-746-0911
the lounge
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T H E PA S T O R S L O U N G E . C O M
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Congratulations
100 YEARS OF SERVICE
Neighborhood Infant Child Care Center For 100 years of raising the future of the Montclair community. Thank you for the guidance, support, & love you have given to our family.
Here's to another hundred years!
With Love, The Smith Family Zoe, Lucas, Tatiana & Stan
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Congraulations on Celebrating 100 Years of Community Service and Enriching the lives of children.
In Memory of John Easton from Gladysteen Parker & Dana Parker
Neighborhood Child & Infant Care Center 100th Anniversary Auction Donors Amazing Savings of Verona Bergen Performing Arts Center Bravado Cigars of Orange, New Jersey Ceaser Jewelers Cinemark Movie Theater of Wayne, New Jersey Cruise Planners Cruise Planners Travel Elite Nails Montclair GIANT Construction Company Glamour Day Spa Golconda Temple No. 24 - Class of 2026 J. Hines Allen of the Jacksonville Jaguars KAHMA Liberty Science Center National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs New Jersey Performing Arts Center Sponzilli Landscaping Group That Chick Does Hair Salon The Murphy Family TONE Fitness of Bloomfield Travel Advantage Network Vanguard Theater Watchung Booksellers WNBA Myisha Hines-Allen of the Indiana Fever Youth Consultation Service of West Orange, New Jersey Zoological Society of New Jersey
Celebration Journal by MLD Communications Montclair based (973) 783-6198