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NFSB’s CAB Hosting Series of Events to Bring the Community Together
The Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB) Community Advisory Board was created in early 2024 to organize free events and activities that bring the community together. The Community Advisory Board is comprised of NFSB staff and supportive members of the community, while events are staffed by our dedicated family of volunteers.
“At the Food Pantry, we’ve found that many of our clients feel lonely,” said Joan Roake, NFSB Food Pantry Manager. “When I brought up the idea of reaching out to the community and inviting people to very simple, fun events, everyone was very receptive. It’s a great way to meet new people in a relaxed, informal setting.”
The next free Community Advisory Board event will celebrate the holidays at the Kingsland Manor, a landmark Dutch Colonial home built in 1768 that has generously donated their space. Guests will be able to tour the house and socialize while enjoying the holiday decorations and live music. This event will be held Wednesday, December 11 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Kingsland Manor, 3 Kingsland Street in Nutley.
“Depression and anxiety are common during the holidays,” Joan said. “Seniors often feel isolated, and young families might feel stressed about the high cost of the holidays and everyday living. Just getting out of the house and connecting with others can help. If you want to relax with a cup of coffee and walk through the house on your own, that’s fine, too. You don’t have to register in advance or sign in when you arrive. Just come and do whatever makes you happy.”
Community Advisory Board events typically have a theme. The first event, our Food Truck Festival for Mental Health Awareness Month, featured a live deejay, chair massages, and group exercise. Other events have included a Trunk or Treat, Family Movie Night, and the first Community Coffee, which was held at the Knights of Columbus in October. Our goal is to host approximately 10 Community Coffee events in 2025.
“Community Coffee is very near and dear to my heart,” Joan said. “It’s a great way to get people out in the community. The first Community Coffee was a very low-key event with coffee and refreshments that attracted far more people than we expected. And our volunteers always handle set up, greet guests, and breakdown at the end. They’re so supportive of everything we do.”
Every Community Advisory Board event is an opportunity for people to forge connections and receive support from others.
“Our hope is that people come out and take comfort in the friendship that’s available through the community,” Joan said. “Nutley is fabulous that way. Maybe they’ll meet someone and realize they’re facing the same challenges. Sometimes all it takes is a friendly smile. At the very least, that’s what we’re offering – a smile and a cup of coffee. If we can help people make new connections and brighten their day, the event is a success.”
Follow the NFSB Facebook and Instagram pages for more information on upcoming Community Advisory Board events!
