Stephanie Colletti provided an update on the great work of Star of Hope in Paterson.
 

Star of Hope Ministries has been ministering to people in Paterson area since 1913, so it recently entered its second century of empowering people. 
Stephanie Colletti has recently joined as Resource Acquisition and Distribution Director.   We were fortunate to have her at our weekly meeting today to provide an insight into the great work that they do.

Stephanie emphasized that Star of Hope is dedicated to being a Christian organization that follows the model of great business practices to provide sustainable support.  The goal is to both provide food to take care of immediate needs, but also to empower people to sustain themselves going forward.  Providing food or clothing can relieve some of the focus on those items so that a person is provided with a chance to focus on their families or acquiring skills for a job so they can become self sustaining.

There are four key initiatives at the moment, known as the Four Star Initiative:

Star Wares - a thrift store where families can be clothed with quality items for as little as $2.  A family can be clothed for $10
Star Tern - an internship program where students can get real world experience of retail in a setting that helps the community
Star Tec - Provides a computer lab for local residents to prepare resumes and receive education
Star Cup - a retail training cafe

All four of these initiatives will provide an environment for serving and training leaders, youth and the residents of Paterson.

Stephanie has extensive Retail experience that will be extremely valuable in ensuring the continued success of the work of Star of Hope.  In response to a question by our President, Tom Madigan to say a few words about her background, she shared the compelling story of her life and the inspiration of her father which have prepared her for the work that she is now doing.  It was truly inspirational to hear her story and her commitment to helping others and having an open door at her home that welcomes all people of any religion or station in life.

it is a privilege for the members of the club to meet so many inspiring people that are doing good every Thursday morning and to be able to help out where we can.  If you would like to help, there is a collection depot at the local Cornerstone Church where you can drop off items to be used in the Thrift Shop.  Stephanie also highlighted that at this time of year if any groups want to have clothing drives, you can have Star of Hope Thrift Shop as the recipient of those clothes.

Links:

Star of Hope Website

Photo from 1920

 

President Elect, Emmy Eliya, Stephanie Colletti, President Tom Madigan and Scott Pruiksma, Midland Park council who introduced Stephanie.

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