Thanks for a Great Gala!

From Your Friends at Bergen Family Center

Bergen Family Center Gala Fundraiser & Auction

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Bergen Family Center’s Annual Gala Fundraiser and Auction on November 14, 2024, at Montammy Country Club. Celebrating 126 years of service, the evening honored Alexander R. Diaz, Alissa K. Rudin, and Davia R. Valenzuela and featured fine dining, entertainment, and exciting auctions. Thanks to your generosity, the event was a tremendous success, with proceeds directly benefiting BFC’s vital community programs. Your contributions ensure we can continue making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve—thank you for being a part of this unforgettable celebration!

With Gratitude to Our 2024 Honorees

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Alexander R. Diaz

Executive Director BergenPAC

Alexander is a dynamic and multi-talented artist and executive who has left an indelible mark on the performing arts scene not only in New Jersey but also in New York City, Philadelphia, Miami, and internationally. Graduating with honors from the University of the Arts, Alex has excelled as a performer, director, educator, and producer.

His passion for the arts has fueled a lifelong dedication to arts education. For 12 years, Alex served as the Education Director at BergenPAC, where he shaped the futures of countless young artists. Today, as the Executive Director of BergenPAC, he continues to elevate the cultural landscape of northern New Jersey, bringing world-class entertainment to the community and inspiring the next generation of talent. In addition to his role at BergenPAC, Alexander is a producer, production manager, and director for American History Unbound Inc., a prestigious organization that brings pivotal moments of American history to life on renowned stages such as Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Boston Pops.

His commitment to arts education extends to his work as the Theater Director at the Elisabeth Morrow School, where he fosters creativity and a love of the arts in young students. Alexander’s dedication to his craft is matched only by his commitment to his family.

He is a devoted husband to his wife, Desere, and a loving father to his two children, Delilah and Alexander.

“Bergen Family Center and BergenPAC have built a strong partnership rooted in a shared commitment to the community,” Alex says.

“Together, we strive to make a positive impact, whether it’s through arts education, community outreach, or world-class performances. Our collaboration ensures that the arts remain a vital and accessible part of life in northern New Jersey.”

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Davia

Alissa K. Rudin

Vice Chair BFC Board of Trustees

With a distinguished career in non-profit social service organizations in New York City, Alissa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to BFC. Her deep understanding of the administrative, legal, programmatic, and management challenges facing non-profits is invaluable. Alissa’s expertise helps BFC manage risks, institutionalize best practices, engage in strategic planning, and promote equity in both service delivery and employment.

After retiring from her role as Chief Operating Officer at a supportive housing organization in New York City, Alissa dedicated herself to various pro bono and volunteer activities. In addition to her work with BFC, she serves as a Lead for Election Protection, a nationwide voter protection initiative managed by the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Alissa also represented a young woman who fled El Salvador to reunite with her family in the U.S.

Before her retirement, Alissa served as General Counsel for several large nonprofit organizations, including Lantern Community Services, Family Justice, and Safe Horizon (formerly Victim Services). These organizations provide essential support to victims of domestic violence, families with loved ones involved in the criminal justice system, and at-risk and special needs populations in need of supportive housing.

Alissa holds a BA from Duke University and a JD from the University of Michigan Law School. She and her husband, Robert, have three children: Gregory, Jacob, and Lily, and a daughter-in-law, Genevieve. “Bergen Family Center is an incredible organization because of its unwavering commitment to the community,” Alissa says. “BFC truly cares about making a difference, providing comprehensive support, and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. It’s a place where compassion meets action, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

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Davia

Davia A. Valenzuela

BFC Director of Human Resources

Davia A. Valenzuela is celebrating her 25th anniversary at Bergen Family Center (BFC) this year, marking a significant milestone since her hiring on November 9, 1999.

Over the years, Davia has held several vital roles at BFC, including Director of HIPPY (Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters), After School/Summer Programs, and Adult Day Care. In 2016, Davia created the Human Resources Department at BFC, further solidifying her leadership and vision within the organization. Additionally, she manages the facilities at BFC, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all. Davia has been instrumental in prioritizing staff wellness and employee engagement, creating opportunities for professional development, and valuing and promoting community engagement and partnerships.

Her leadership has helped foster a positive and inclusive work environment where every employee feels valued and supported. Davia’s roots at BFC run deep, with her own children—Olivia, Luke, and Matthew—having attended the center’s preschool and summer camp programs. Olivia is now a college student, while the twins, Luke and Matthew, are 19 years old. Luke works as a shop assistant at J. Fletcher Creamer & Sons, and Matthew is a newly minted U.S. Marine. Davia has been married to Frank Valenzuela since 1997, and together, they have raised a family closely connected to the BFC community.

Davia holds a BA Degree in Liberal Arts from William Patterson University, with a major in Sociology, which she earned in 1996.

"I love that BFC is the heart of the Englewood community, offering support, resources, and a safe haven for families. We're always here to meet the community's needs," says Davia.

Her passion and commitment have been instrumental in making BFC a vibrant and supportive agency, impacting countless lives in Englewood.

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Our Stellar Staff Makes It Happen!

The Zone

The Zone at Bergen Family Center empowers over 1,358 teens each year with counseling, summer programs, and career guidance. Our dedicated team supports their personal and academic growth, building a foundation for future success. Your support is crucial to keep these life-changing programs thriving.

Ryan White

Our Staff at The Ryan White HIV Program at Bergen Family Center delivers vital services to vulnerable individuals, and provides medical care and mental health support. Your contributions help us provide hope and compassionate care to those in need.

Family Success

The Family Success Center at Bergen Family Center empowers 469 families annually with essential services like back-to-school supplies and monthly food donations. Your support helps us continue building stronger, more resilient communities.

HIPPY

Empowering Families with HIPPY – A Pathway to Learning and Success

The Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY) program at Bergen Family Center is transforming lives, one family at a time. Recently, our committed team conducted 780 educational lessons, impacting young minds and empowering parents to be their children's first and best teachers. With 691 home visits, we provided personalized, in-home support, ensuring each family receives the guidance they need.

This year, 80 families participated in HIPPY, benefiting 82 children with a nurturing and structured educational experience. Since HIPPY began, 550 families have graduated, a remarkable increase from our initial 20 families, reflecting our program’s profound success and the growing community of empowered families.

HIPPY at Bergen Family Center is more than just a program—it’s a vital foundation for building essential skills and a lifelong love of learning. To continue this transformative work and reach even more families, we need your support. Please consider making a donation to help us empower and educate the next generation. Your contribution makes a lasting impact.

Supporting Seniors with Comprehensive Care and Engagement

At Bergen Family Center, we cherish our senior community by providing essential support and care. Last year, our seniors enjoyed over 6,000 healthy, nourishing meals, creating joy and a sense of belonging. Our team conducted 4,987 case management sessions, offering personalized assistance to address the unique needs of each individual.

Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, we provided 267 counseling sessions, offering a safe space for seniors to share their concerns. Additionally, 145 seniors engaged in lifelong learning and social interaction through various classes at SESCIL. At Bergen Family Center, every service strengthens our community and enriches the lives of our seniors.

HIPPY
HIPPY

Keeping Our Staff and Families Safe

At Bergen Family Center, the safety and well-being of our families and staff are our top priorities, particularly in today’s uncertain environment. Our dedicated security team, led by Jaquan Howze, works tirelessly to ensure a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

From the moment children and parents arrive in the morning to when they head home in the afternoon, Jaquan and his team are there, providing a reassuring presence. They monitor the premises, assist with morning drop-offs, and ensure smooth and secure pick-ups, making sure every family feels safe throughout the day.

Their commitment to protection and support allows our community to focus on learning, growing, and connecting, knowing they are always in safe hands.

Our Story Says It All

Bergen Family Center takes a holistic approach to supporting families, offering comprehensive services to both children and their parents or guardians.

We focus on providing affordable childcare to over 400 children while also offering dedicated support to more than 1,000 parents and guardians. By addressing the needs of both children and caregivers, BFC aims to create a nurturing community that fosters the growth, development, and well-being of the entire family.

Agresta Brothers

Why BFC means so much to so many.

The Numbers Show How We Work to Strengthen Families

FOR CHILDREN & PARENTS

798

Childcare and Education Programs Provided


FOR TEENS

1,358

Middle School & High School Students Received Services at the Zone


FOR SENIORS

4,987

Personalized Case Management Sessions Provided


These achievements were made possible by your contributions, the dedication of our volunteers and staff, government grants, foundation support and client fees, Local businesses, religious institutions and schools provided volunteers and Your financial support.

Counseling & Intervention

We help families facing challenges that disrupt their lives - Individuals diagnosed with or affected by HIV/AIDS - Families & adolescents involved with family court.

150

Families Assisted

Court Services program stands as a steadfast ally for families

1,458

Services Delivered

Compassionate Care through the Ryan White HIV Program

100

Clients

Received individual counseling from Bergen Family Center.

Learn More About Our Counseling Services...


Setting Goals - Fulfilling Potential

We strengthen our community by providing services that help families, teens, seniors, parents, and children to function independently and improve the quality of their lives.

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Children

Make a Bright Start.

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Teens

Building upon the talent of teens.

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Seniors

Stay Vital and Healthy

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