About Us
Message from our Executive Director
Dear Friends of Parents Inc. of New Jersey,
I am excited to announce that I joined Parents Inc. of New Jersey as the new Executive Director in September of 2023. I would like to take this opportunity to formally introduce myself.
I was first introduced to Parents Inc. of New Jersey nearly ten years ago as a Foundation funder of Keansburg Father Time. Immediately, I could see the love and respect that everyone at Parents Inc. of New Jersey had for each other and for those served. It was the epitome of the word community and I wanted to be a part of it and when the foundation sunset and the Executive Director’s position became available, I applied for the position.
I bring over 35 years' experience in fundraising, community relations, marketing, non-profit management to Parents Inc of New Jersey. I also bring a deep understanding of the mission and vision of Parents Inc. of New Jersey along with the community it serves. As I look to the future of Parents Inc. of New Jersey and how we can grow to meet the needs of our families in New Jersey, I do so through this lens of mutual respect and shared leadership. I am passionate about making a difference in communities throughout New Jersey. I am confident that there is no better way to achieve this than through Parents Inc. Of New Jersey alongside our dedicated staff, board and families as well as volunteers.
I hope to have the opportunity to get to know you and I appreciate your continued support of Parents Inc. of New Jersey and look forward to sharing our stories and news with you.
Gratefully,
Jackie Edwards
Our History
The origins of Parents Inc. of New Jersey (formerly known as Parents Anonymous® of New Jersey, Inc.) can be traced back to Jolly K. an individual who experienced a challenging childhood, moving through 38 different foster homes and receiving an eighth-grade education. Upon being released from the California Youth Authority at 18, she turned to a life of prostitution as she believed it was her only means of survival. However, she soon realized that this was not the solution.
Over the years, she struggled to make ends meet while raising her two daughters. She also had to give up her one son for adoption. In 1969, following a distressing incident involving her daughter, Jolly sought help at a local child guidance clinic. However, faced with a six-month waiting list, she vocalized her frustration and urgency in obtaining assistance.
This led to an intervention by protective services and a subsequent psychiatric evaluation. Under the guidance of Leonard Lieber, a psychiatric social worker, Jolly and Faith began therapy, despite initial slow progress due to Jolly's resistance. Eventually, Jolly expressed a desire to engage with someone facing similar challenges, resulting in the formation of an organization initially named Mothers Anonymous.
They established fundamental guidelines, emphasizing immediate behavioral control and unwavering mutual support. This group later expanded and gained media attention, eventually evolving into Parents Anonymous®. Jolly and Leonard's efforts had a significant impact, culminating in a breakthrough when Jolly testified before a Senate subcommittee, leading to the enactment of Public Law 93-247 focused on child abuse legislation.
Thanks to the dedicated work of Parents Inc. of New Jersey team, along with parent support groups, leaders, and community partners, parents have been given the tools to overcome challenges and create safe, loving environments for their children. The shared leadership approach has successfully helped reduce risks and build resilience within families. Overall, this collaborative effort has had a substantial positive effect on supporting parents and families. Parents Inc. of New Jersey and its partners will make a lasting difference in the community for years to come.
Our Mission
The mission of Parents Inc. of New Jersey is to strengthen families through parent leadership development, advocacy, and personal growth.