Learn About Our Partnership with Bergen Community College

The Community Living Education Project's partnership with Bergen Community College began in 2023. Our team members are proud to be able to work with transitioning students and their families, sharing information about available local, state, and federal programs and resources through the College’s Center for Adult Transition.  CLEP has also attended provider and transition fairs at Bergen County College and other community events.

Last December, Community Living Education Project (CLEP) team members facilitated an in-person one-page profile workshop for the students who attend the Center for Adult Transition.  A one-page profile is a person-centered tool that captures important information about a person and can be used in many areas of someone’s life.  It can offer an informal introduction to their instructors, potential employers, volunteer opportunities, and other professionals.   A one-page profile collects information under four headings, “What Do People Like and Admire About You?”   “What's Important to You?”  “What Do Others Need to Know and/or Do to Support You?”   and “What are Your Hopes and Dreams for the Future?”

Teresa Serio, M.Ed, Coordiantor of the Center for Adult Transition, expressed her appreciation of the presentation by writing “…you engaged each and every student…  Our students left with a practical self-advocacy tool.  Equally as important, you created a space for the students to discuss their strengths, interests, and goals, while also exploring (most for the first time) the support they need to be successful. These conversations and moments of self-awareness are so important to their independence.”

Earlier this month, the CLEP team partnered with two amazing self-advocates, Carmelys Vincent and Marie Trump, on a virtual presentation for BCC students. The presentation focused on the advocates’ experiences, emotions, social connections, challenges, and achievements as they entered college.  The advocates also shared how dealing with these challenges helped them navigate their life beyond college, into employment and in their day-to-day lives.  

CLEP looks forward to our continued collaboration with the students, families and staff at Bergen Community College in supporting successful transitions to adulthood!