Bethel Learning Center

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church has been a pillar in the community for one-hundred and forty years, during which time it has provided a wide array of services to the community. First under the mission programs within the church and, then, in 2003 Betehl Development Corporation (BDC) became a certified 501 c (3) organization. Upon achieving 501 c (3) status, BDC served as the social service arm for the church which then gave it the distinction of being a certified Faith Based Community Organization (FBCO). As an FBCO, BEtehl was created to provide services to the residents who are in need with a host of services that will help to improve their quality of life. The basis of our programs is that a plethora of services is required by impoverished communities if they are to overcome the effects of prolinged poverty.

The addition of the newest project on the horizon, BEthel LEarning Center (BLC), with provide the community with an opportunity to incorporate positive changes in lives of their children by offering a day care that is based on the concept that "it takes a village to raise a child". BLC will fall under the umbrella of Bethel Development Corporation. The addition of BLC to Bethel's services will allow us to work closely with those individuals who are attempting to overcome the barriers that keep them from becoming gainfully employed. In the last three years, as BDC has increased the amount of services available, the biggest request has been for child care services. Bethel Learning Center will be a faith-based child care center which allows flexibility in its programs to meet the changing needs of the community. Earlier start times, later pick up times, programs to meet the changing needs of the community. Earlier start times, later pick up times, as well as a variety of intergenerational and family programs will strengthen families and, in turn, develop a stronger community. BLC and BDC will further work together to provide child care for clientele participating in employment and training programs offered by BDC. The addition of this service will offer a safe, convenient option for individuals who are looking to recieve training but are not able to access child care.

Bethel Learning Center will be housed in the BEthel Complex at 5th Street in Millville, NJ and will consist of four classrooms, a family worker's office and a Director's office. There will be at least on infant room and three other rooms (for children 1.5 to 4 years of age). The hours of operation are tentatively set for 7:00AM to 5:30PM which will accommodate individuals who work shift work and those who may not be able to arrive by 5PM. The Center's staffing will include a Director, a Family Service Worker, Cook, Bus Driver/Substitute Teacher, and a custodial team with each classroom having one Group Teacher, a Teacher's Assitant and a classroom aide. Candidates for employment will be selected based upon both their qualifications for a specific job description and also expressed commitment to the mission of Bethel Development and of Bethel Learning Center.

Classrooms will be equipped with state of the art technology and activities. The teaching atmosphere at BLC will not only stimulate their imagination but will teach children solid faith-based principals, such as the following:

1. The curriculum and teaching-learning experiance will seek to help each child find his/her maximum developmental potential.
2. BLC will help each child grow and develop healthy relationships that are trusting and loving by emphasizing faith-based values.
3. BLC will provide group learning experiances for children via various classroom activities and outside resources.
4. BLC will help children develop individual skills in readiness and / or reading, mathematics, science and other disciplines necessary for productive living today.

BLC's goal is to enhance and encourage the future leaders of our community by teaching them that there is no limit to their dreams regardless of the racial background or economic status. Instilling the importance of learning at an early age will develop values and knowledge that follow the students of BLC thoughout their lives, encouragingthem to reach for the stars. Programs will be offered that will allow parents to become a part of the learning experiance through intergenerational activities.

The on-sire Family Worker will work with each family on to ensure student success. At the same time, they will also make appropriate referrals to BDC staff that can help parents or guardians to overcome the barriers keeping them buried in the grip of poverty. The staff of both BLC and BDC will work together to accomplish Bethel Development's mission "To create opportunities to effect a positive change in the life of the underserved and underprivileged of our community; To provide services that will enhance the lives of those citizens who have limited access to services; To build a strong and healthier community spiritually, physically, and emotionally".

The on-site Family Worker will work with each family on to ensure student success. At the same time, they will also make appropriate referrals to BDC staff that can help parents or guardians to overcome the barriers keeping them buried in the grip of poverty. The staff of both BLC and BDC will work together to accomplish Bethel Development's mission "To create opportunities o effect a positive change in the life of those citizens who have limited access