Years ago, I spoke with my good friend Stanley Neron, Elizabeth School District's Board Member, about my aspiration to lead a nonprofit that supports individuals up to the age of 25. We envisioned a system where, whether they reach out to us or we initiate contact, our graduates and recent clients can pick up where they left off or access further services as needed.

Every young professional featured in this newsletter has earned their high school equivalency diploma through our GED preparation classes and has secured either a job or further educational opportunities. Recognizing the importance of continuous support, we are committed to aiding our 'champions' beyond initial employment. Our services include teaching essentials such as banking, investment, relationship management, parenting, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement, ensuring they are well-equipped for independent lives.

Being intentional, 

Marie Thelusma-Chase, CEO, Boxwood Learning Center

"Because most of our champions had to overcome significant obstacles, we are obliged to catch up with them to see if they need additional support. Watch our exclusive video interview with Kweli H. as he shares insights into his journey since graduating from Boxwood and his new perspective on life and service." --Marie Thelusma-Chase

The Making of a Boxwood Champion

Our core mission is to support our graduates up to age 25. In 2024, Boxwood invested over $20,000 in helping our champions overcome challenges, including providing internships worth more than $18,000, transportation for the first two weeks of employment, and emergency support. This was made possible entirely by monthly donations from our community members.

Join Our Community of Supporters

Help us continue our vital work by becoming a monthly donor. Whether you contribute $5 or $250 each month, your support makes a lasting impact. Join us today!

We recently caught up with our alumni O.J.

"Thank you for the opportunity in teaching me the things I needed to learn about life, school, and work. To all the future kings and queens of Boxwood, stay focused." --O.J. (photo on left)

Hobbies and Interests:

"Currently, my children are my main focus. I enjoy taking them shopping and spending quality time with them."

Career:

A technician at a local auto shop.

Career Progression Plans: 

"Over the next few years, I aim to become at least an assistant manager at my current workplace. I appreciate the competitive nature of my job, where everyone has a specific role and daily quotas to meet. Consistency and efficiency are crucial—there's no room for slacking."

Preparation for Leadership: 

"I plan to take workplace leadership classes, work diligently, observe other managers, and communicate my career goals to my supervisor."

Leadership Outlook: 

"Currently, I consider myself more of a learner than a leader."

Message to 2024 Graduates: 

"Stay focused, and don't lose sight of your goals."

Advice for Those Without Clear Goals: 

"Everyone has a goal. It's essential to have direction and not venture into the world without a purpose."

Enhancing Our Graduates' Traditional High School Experience

At Boxwood, we recognize that a GED doesn't capture the full high school experience. This year, we initiated a yearbook project and organized trips and events to foster community among our graduates and alumni, many of whom never attended traditional high school.

Support Our Graduates' Dreams

Consider becoming a monthly donor or sponsoring our yearbook project. Your contribution will support the publication of the yearbook, graduation ceremonies, and 'senior' trips, creating memorable experiences for our graduates.

"As the CEO of Boxwood Learning Center, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the individuals and organizations who have made it possible for our champions to earn their high school diplomas through the GED program over the years. Special thanks to the Union County Board of County Commissioners, Union County Youth Services Commission, New Jersey Office of Faith-Based Initiatives, Boxwood Board of Directors, Calvary Tabernacle Church in Cranford, and our many individual sponsors. Your support provides the essential starting point for our graduates to dream big. Thank you for the seeds you have planted." - Marie Thelusma-Chase, CFRE