By: Isaiah S. Showell, Follow South Jersey Multimedia Journalist/’What’s Good’ Host

BRIDGETON, N.J. — Black History Month is being celebrated in Bridgeton because Mary Hadley, Program Manager for Stronger Families, is putting on a celebration event at the Alms Center to commemorate this special time of year and special people that contribute to the community.
“We will be doing some presentations for people who have done so much for this community, we just wanted to recognize them,” said Hadley.
Naomi Jones is one of the special individuals who is contributing to the City of Bridgeton by her entrepreneurial work along her hosting summer camps at the alms center teaching performing arts. Jones is one Hadley believes represents Bridgeton positively.

“It feels good to know that I’m being noticed and I’m actually helping the community and making a difference, that’s what all my work means to me,” said Jones. “At the end of the day you have to work hard for you and rising above what your mom wants you to do or your dad wants you to do or your friends, you have to focus on yourself.”
Rich Nichols, the Executive Director of the United Advocacy Group, was also acknowledged for his work putting in time to serve the City of Bridgeton through “Stronger Families” and other programs that prioritize keeping families strong and together.
Hadley also gave a brief Black history lesson to the community before the attendees ate lunch and pulled tickets out they were given to participate in a raffle to win a basket full of tasty treats.
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