WHITESBORO – The Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro, Inc., has been given an opportunity through a partnership with Middle Township to house their organization at the Historic Whitesboro Grammar School in Whitesboro. The innovative concept envisions a hybrid use that highlights the building’s historical significance, while continuing its century-old tradition as a focal point of community service.
The school was started by the founding families of Whitesboro. Mamie Adelyne White, the daughter of Congressman George Henry White (noted founding member of Whitesboro, NJ), was the Whitesboro Grammar School’s first teacher in 1906. For six-plus decades as a public elementary school this institution produced future educators, artisans, business and political leaders in Cape May County and beyond. The goal of this new partnership is to welcome residents into a setting which reflects this history, while also offering direct services, activities and resources that promote family well-being and empowerment.
“Once we heard the current tenant was preparing to vacant the building, our first thought was to approach the Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro,” Mayor Tim Donohue said. “C.C.W., Inc. has a long history of effective and compassionate service to the Whitesboro community and beyond. This good work benefits all of Middle Township. Our hope is that this partnership will enhance their ability to facilitate their mission and offer a more diverse menu of programs from one central location.”
In order to make the most of this new opportunity, C.C.W., Inc. looks forward to discussions with other organizations to collaborate and/or partner to assemble all available resources into an integrated service system that addresses the unique needs of the community-at-large. Under the proposed name CCWI Community Service Center, the partnership with Middle Township envisions providing an array of Education (seminars, workshops, training), Enrichment (art, history, community gardening), and Support Services (housing, home energy, weatherization) that will help strengthen families and improve their quality of life and well-being.
“The theme of our 26th Annual Whitesboro Reunion Festival is ‘Strengthening Our Community Through Partnership,” Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro President Bernie Blanks said. “This exciting opportunity to work hand in hand with the Township is a timely illustration of this commitment. It really is a universal theme for many non-profit and for-profit organizations, as we surely could not have done what we’ve done for 26 years without the help of others. More than anything, we hope others see our passion to serve people of all races, creeds and color, and have a genuine desire to assist us with our mission.”
The Township and C.C.W., Inc. are finalizing a long-term lease that would keep in place Vera’s Smith’s Food Pantry at the site and provide for leasing a portion of the property to a rent-paying childcare organization. The building is being spruced up by Middle Township Public Works, under the leadership of Middle Township Recreation Program Coordinator Robert Matthews. A community garden has been planted to help support the food pantry. The Concerned Citizens of Whitesboro hopes to offer tours of the facility, featuring a historical exhibit on Whitesboro founder George White, at the upcoming Reunion Festival.
North Wildwood – Regarding the relocation of the Lou Booth Amphitheater, has the inner grass field at Allen Park been looked into. It is not used often and the size would accommodate a small stage with some wooden…
