Volunteer

As a Circle of Parents Support Group Facilitator I recognize the importance of actively supporting our community. Supporting families and parents in the community means creating a secure environment where necessary support can be accessed.

It has been especially meaningful to observe individuals deriving satisfaction from their weekly meetings. It brings me great satisfaction to witness the smiles on people's faces.

I am a people-oriented individual who enjoys fostering the growth and development of others. I believe that a positive outlook can significantly enhance one's professional and personal life.

I was inspired to get involved with Parents Inc. because I have a passion for helping families feel supported, heard, and connected. I’ve seen firsthand how much of a difference it makes when parents have access to resources and a strong support system. I wanted to be part of something that uplifts families and helps them grow together.

Supporting families and parents in my community means creating a safe space where they feel valued, understood, and empowered. It’s about providing resources, encouragement, and real connections so parents know they’re not alone. When families are supported, the entire community becomes stronger.

Volunteering with Parents Inc. has helped me grow both personally and professionally. It has strengthened my communication skills just a little bit, deepened my empathy, and given me a greater understanding of the challenges families face. It also reminded me of the importance of community and being there for others.

Mrs. Aprilis Abdul-Majeed is a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, entrepreneur, and community leader. A proud alumna of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City, she is also the founding facilitator of Nana's Love—a grandmother’s support group within the Family Success Center of East Orange and part of Parents Inc. of New
Jersey.

Over the past decade, Mrs. Aprilis has nurtured Nana’s Love into a true community staple in East Orange, NJ—creating a safe, empowering space where grandmothers connect, support one another, and strengthen their families. In the past year, she has expanded the group’s reach by adopting a local senior nursing home, where members conduct quarterly visits to
sing, engage residents in meaningful activities, and provide thoughtful goodie bags—bringing joy and connection across generations.

Through every role she holds, Mrs. Aprilis continues to uplift others—leaving a lasting impact on families, seniors, and the broader community.

Originally from Brooklyn, New York, I’ve lived throughout New Jersey for the past 35 years. While I love New Jersey, I still enjoy returning to New York for family, friends, and the arts—especially Broadway, concerts, and museums.

I retired from full-time work in 2021 after a varied career that included roles as a zookeeper, educator, and administrative professional. Zookeeping and teaching were my favorite chapters.

With more free time, volunteering continues to be a central part of my life. For over 40 years, I’ve supported organizations such as Big Brothers & Sisters, animal shelters, foster care programs, Literacy NJ, and Parents Inc. Giving back is something I can’t imagine living without.

Travel is another passion of mine. Exploring new cultures, food, music, and perspectives keeps me inspired. Recent adventures include trips to Thailand and South Africa.

Victoria is a wife, mother of five, and volunteer. Victoria has been answering the Helpline 1-800-THE-KIDS on Wednesday overnight from 11 pm - 6 am) twice a month since 1997. That is over 5,100 hours she has donated. In addition to volunteering, she works full-time as a teacher for Burlington County Vocational High School. She attends the Support meetings we hold. Victoria is knowledgeable, dedicated, willing, and flexible. She wants to make the world a happier, healthier, and safer place to live and thrive. She deserves to be celebrated for her 27 years of service to Parents Inc.