Lawrence Brook Watershed Partner

Newark Opportunity Youth Network is a collaborative organization in Newark, NJ, dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by over 100,000 opportunity youth in the state. By disrupting the status quo and implementing proven strategies, they aim to bridge the equity gap and provide better opportunities for young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in school or working. With a mission-driven approach and a focus on clear outcomes, Newark Opportunity Youth Network is committed to creating positive change and breaking the cycle of system failures that affect this shadow population. Their efforts are guided by collaborative thought-leaders and partners, aiming to reshape the conversation and improve the lives of opportunity youth in New Jersey.Generated from the website

The Uncommon Thread was born from the idea that everyone can learn. Kids discover their world through common threads of learning. When the basic elements of learning fail children on the spectrum, we must strive to remember that it is not about "Can they learn?" - but rather the discovery of the uncommon thread that will connect concepts to words and make learning possible. VISION & PHILOSOPHY Families face an ever present disconnect in the fight to save their child from communication and Behavior disorders which impede the learning process. Often frustrated and feeling helpless, parents can become immobilized in their effort to navigate the waters of early intervention. The Uncommon Thread has created an environment where early intervention becomes a comprehensive, cohesive strategy between parents, specialists, therapists, and educators in order to team up and fight the debilitating affects that occur with children who have learning differences. At The Uncommon Thread, we believe in early intervention, thoughtfully constructed programs, and a collaborative team approach implemented in a holistic environment. Our team consists of experienced professionals who have witnessed and believe in the positive outcomes of early intervention programs. An appropriate early intervention program can significantly improve the quality of life for a child with developmental and Behavior disorders. However, there is a narrow window of opportunity in which implementing a program can create the highest impact. These children don’t learn in the same way that typical developing children learn. For this reason it is imperative to devise methods of teaching that develop and strengthen the skills necessary for natural learning to take place.