Visions and Pathways

Our Passion

Visions and Pathways (V&P) provides housing and supportive services to abused, neglected, and homeless youth, empowering them to become self-sufficient.

Trailblazing History and Tremendous Impact

Founded in 1970, V&P was New Jersey's first private, 501(c)(3) non-profit youth shelter. Our programs cover northern and central regions of the state, impacting the lives of over 13,000 youth and their families.

For over fifty years we have uplifted at-risk and marginalized youth in innovative ways. V&P’s group homes, affordable housing, financial literacy and life skills instruction, mentoring, wellness, and behavioral health services help lay a solid foundation for success. Through our grassroots Street-Smart outreach program, we help combat the opioid epidemic and protect human trafficking victims.

Our Request – Empowering Returning Citizens for Success

V&P is raising funds to launch a Technology, Education, and Career (TEC) Center in Plainfield, New Jersey.

The Center will provide jobs, comprehensive technology education and career development to individuals who have been incarcerated (returning citizens), teens/young adults who have been involved with the juvenile justice system, and other young adults who have confronted similar challenges. Through certified courses, workshops, and personalized career counseling services, the Center will empower returning citizens with the skills and resources needed to thrive in today's digital landscape.

The $30,000 will be utilized to purchase the necessary computer equipment and pay for certifications for participants in the TEC Center.

Visions and Pathways has helped abused, neglected, homeless, missing and at-risk youth since 1970. Their kids have broken lives. Some are shattered; some have just a small crack. Some show no physical signs of damage - the scars are on the inside. We help them put the pieces back together, build their self-esteem and acquire the skills they need to thrive by providing; food, housing, counseling, education assistance, arts and recreation activities, career and employment counseling, scholarships and financial literacy instruction.

The 2024 Leadership Somerset

class project, named 'Restful Digs', is dedicated to transforming the

bedrooms of a Visions & Pathways shelter in

Bridgewater, NJ to create a safe, nurturing,

and dignified environment where at risk youth

can find respite and hope. All donations will

help make this project a reality. And, no amount is too small. We appreciate

your support to help these youth ages 13-17 put the past behind and build a brighter future!

'Restful Digs' Project Aims to Support Displaced Youth at Brahma House

Members of the Leadership Somerset Class of 2024 are implementing a community project, titled “Restful Digs,” to uplift and enhance the living spaces for displaced youth at Brahma House, a short-term group home managed by Visions & Pathways in Bridgewater, NJ.

Restful Digs: Providing Dignity Through Comfortable Living Spaces

The 'Restful Digs' project focuses on revitalizing the bedrooms and restocking the library at Brahma House, which serves 13- to 17-year-olds who have been victims of abuse, neglect, or homelessness. The aim is to create a more dignified and comforting environment for these vulnerable youth, helping them feel safe and supported during a critical period in their lives.

Brahma House and Visions & Pathways: A Beacon for Youth in Crisis

Visions & Pathways is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing housing, stability, and supportive services to youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, or homelessness. Brahma House offers a range of services, including food, clothing, shelter, counseling, health care, and education. It serves as a temporary haven for young people who are struggling with difficult family circumstances, many of whom have endured physical or sexual abuse. The ultimate goal is to reunite these youth with their families whenever possible or to help them transition to stable homes.

Leadership Somerset’s Commitment to Community Impact

Each year, Leadership Somerset asks its participants to identify a class project as a way of fostering civic leadership and giving back to the community. The 'Restful Digs' project team’s decision to partner with Visions & Pathways highlights their dedication to addressing the needs of underrepresented and vulnerable populations within Somerset County. Through 'Restful Digs,' the project team aims to make a lasting difference by providing Brahma House residents with comfortable living spaces that foster healing, growth, and a sense of self-worth.

How You Can Help

As the community project team works to complete the 'Restful Digs' project, they invite members of the community to join them in this important mission. Donations of new or gently used books for the library or financial contributions toward the bedroom upgrades are greatly appreciated. Every contribution helps provide a more nurturing environment for youth who need it most.

For more information please contact us.

About Visions & Pathways: Visions & Pathways is a not-for-profit organization that provides housing, counseling, education, and support services to abused, neglected, and homeless youth, guiding them toward self-sufficiency and stable futures.

Dr. Ed lived a life dedicated to touching the lives of those he had the privilege of meeting, but especially those in need. With three children of his own, Dr. Ed knew how essential strong guidance and counsel is to young people on their journey to adulthood and desired to ensure that those most vulnerable had dependable support.

With that mission in mind, Dr. Ed's family is asking that in lieu of flowers, those wishing to show their support to Dr. Ed donate to Visions and Pathways.