Catherine's Closet Experiences
Arts High School Presentation
Summary, Newark NJ
January 27, 2006
During three lunch periods at Arts High School, students,
both male and female learned about the new mission of
Catherine's Closet. Many students were already aware of what
Catherine's Closet is, but none understood exactly what was
needed to obtain a gown, earn community service hours, or
win the scholarship. Students watched the Catherine's Closet
DVD, discussed fundraising options for Catherine's Closet,
and participated in a variety of activities.
Three to four Arts High students canvased the school taking
orders for Rose Cheesecakes. Out of those students two stood
out the most, Bella M. raising $104 and Laticia W. raising
$35 selling the cakes. Other young women have volunteered to
sell the cakes at local churches, write and frame poetry for
sale, as well as
donate dresses.
A Letter from Maple Avenue School,
Newark NJ:
January 18, 2005
Dear Dr. Sandra Kessler
The Between Sisters Mentoring Group would like to extend a
warm thank-you for your invitation to the Short Hills Hilton
for High Tea. The tea lesson provided a memorable experience
for the students of Maple Avenue School. The hostess
empowered the young ladies to developideas for their tea
which was held in April 2005.
The Between Sisters Mentoring Group enjoyed the food and
socializing with the students of Science High School. This
was an inspirational transitional activity for the 8th
graders and the high school seniors. While in transit, both
groups interacted and shared positive experiences about
their school careers and future goals.
As the principal of Maple Avenue School, I would like to
thank you for taking an interest in my students. Your
willingness to share and extend yourself to them has
enhanced their lives. We look forward to working with you on
our Spring Tea. The Maple Avenue School Family will look
forward to your continued support in our future community
activities.
Sincerely Yours,
Mrs. Deneen Washington
Principal
Newark Public Schools Christmas Party
for Homeless Students
Many thanks to the Sistahood club and their
advisor Jean Gifford for making little girls feel like
princesses by giving them manicures, hand massages
and holiday dresses. Thanks to Bonnie Kessler and Gabby W.
for donating beautiful holiday dresses. Thanks to
Nordstrom and
Neiman Marcus for donating makeup, cologne, and perfume.
Kiama, from one of the elementary schools, asked if we are
"beauty experts".
Catherine's Closet volunteers
earned 3 hours of community service.
Wayne Hills "Future Business Leaders
of America"
2005 Holiday Sale
Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Lotion, Body Scrub, and a host of
other pampering/ beauty related products that were donated
were sold at the School.
All proceeds from the sale of these products benefited
Catherine's Closet.
Science High, Newark
A Tea Honoring Frank James, and Steve & Jeff
Greenberg for their support of Catherine's Closet
The tea was held to thank them for donating the penthouse in
the office building located at 550 Broad Street, Newark for
Catherine's Closet prom gown and accessory storage. Students
earned service hours for their participation.
Orange Middle School, Orange NJ,
Barringer High School, Newark NJ and South Orange Maplewood
High School, Maplewood NJ
Students are currently
advertising the events, distributing flyers and working on
media coverage to make sure customers come to the
distribution.
Your group can also get
involved. We are looking for volunteers who can follow
instructions from the web site!