Seven years ago, Catherine Rutledge was volunteering for the East Orange Community Charter School when she discovered that a local support group of Parents Anonymous of New Jersey, Inc. met on site. PA of NJ is a statewide nonprofit organization whose mission is to protect children by strengthening families. Mutual support and parent leadership are provided in free, professionally facilitated self-help groups statewide on a weekly basis.

Catherine’s genuine desire to reach out to others motivated her to join the group. A mother of three adult children and ten grandchildren, she has, for the past 19 years, raised three of her grandchildren, all diagnosed with ADHD. She has experienced the joys and sorrows of motherhood having lost a daughter to Lupus and a grandson in a tragic accident. She knew that a discussion group would be helpful.

As a participant, Catherine began to invite other grandparents whom she thought needed help in the difficult task of raising a second set of children. She eventually became a facilitator for the group, and through her diligence and dedication, the East Orange grandparent support group grew to fifteen members.

Children and their concerns have always been a major part of Catherine’s life. For many years she served on the policy council and board of directors of the East Orange Child Development Corporation. She currently is a member of the board of directors for the East Orange Community Charter School where she volunteers as a security officer. “Catherine really connects to those who come through the door,” commented Suzanne Reitmeier, Program Director of Parents Anonymous of N.J. “She does her work unselfishly, always encouraging others to do better with their lives. She never settles for the status quo.”

Through her many trials, Catherine has remained devoted to her mission as a leader and role model to the parents and grandparents of Parents Anonymous of New Jersey, Inc. She always has a word of encouragement for the parents who pass her desk each day. As observed by Laurie Komjati, Volunteer Coordinator, “Catherine is a true blessing to the East Orange community, Head Start, the Charter School and Parents Anonymous. She is an example of growth, hope, healing and an inspiration to many.”

To determine the location of a support group in your area, contact Parents Anonymous of New Jersey, Inc. at 609-585-7666. The agency is also in need of volunteers as trained facilitators to provide a safe, confidential environment in which to share, vent and learn and as Parent Stressline volunteers who take calls on a listening and information and referral hotline devoted to family issues. Training is provided.