New Jersey

Jumpstart programs are made possible with the help of volunteers from local colleges and the community, who serve in a variety of preschool settings in underserved communities such as Head Start programs, community based classrooms, and public school pre-K. Each member of our volunteer “Corps” undergoes extensive training before entering the classroom, as well as ongoing coaching throughout the school year to ensure the highest quality program is consistently implemented. Click here to learn more about our program.

COLLEGE CORPS

Jumpstart partners with universities and colleges to recruit college students to serve in preschool classrooms in underserved communities.  Our College Corps program offers students a chance to work alongside likeminded peers, receive high-quality training in early childhood development and education, and gain invaluable hands-on experience in the classroom, all while giving back to the local community. Jumpstart is a great opportunity for students who are interested in education, looking for a work-study opportunity, or simply love spending time with children. Click here to learn more about Jumpstart Corps members.

Students who participate can make an impact on educational equity while potentially earning funds to help pay for their college education through Federal Work Study or a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award (depending on where they serve).

Promise Neighborhood

The goal of the Newark Fairmount Promise Neighborhood is to improve educational outcomes of Fairmount children & families from cradle to college/career. Jumpstart has been working with NFPN for the past 4 years to provide literacy services to pre-school age children and their families in Fairmont district of Newark’s West Ward.

My Front Porch Initiative

Front Porch is a community collaborative initiative sponsored by La Casa de Don Pedro, Newark Science, and Sustainability. The MFP initiative turned an empty lot into a community garden and outdoor event space. During the summer, Jumpstart Corp members read books to children and lead activities for them while parents learn about gardening or shop for produce grown at the garden.

Lunch and Learn

Partnering with 13th Avenue School, Jumpstart invites adults to volunteer to read with young children during the free lunch program over the summer. After reading, the volunteers discuss the book and it’s central ideas. Guest readers included everyone from teachers and parents to police officers and councilman.