Our History
The agency has a history of employing parents, and currently, approximately 75% of existing staff members are former Head Start parents. The agency Board of Directors is composed of 13 members, with the Head Start/Early Head Start Policy Council membership consisting of over 51% of parents of currently enrolled children.
East Orange Child Development Corporation began as an East Orange Board of Education Summer Head Start Program in the summer of 1965.
1965
In November of the same year, the East Orange Child Development Corporation (EOCDC) was officially organized by a group of parents.
1965
The agency was a delegate of the County of Essex until 1985 and served for several years as a grantee and delegate agency.
1985
1965
1965
1985
About East Orange Child Development Corporation
At the East Orange Child Development Corporation (EOCDC), our mission is to provide quality comprehensive early childhood education and family development programs to all eligible children and families throughout East Orange. Through our Early Head Start and Head Start programs, children ages 0-5 are given crucial early learning and preschool experiences, developing their minds and bodies.
Since children learn best when their parents are involved in their learning, we aim to empower parents to become advocates for themselves and their families. Our programs provide education and resources for parents surrounding health, oral health, mental health, disabilities, nutrition, social services, family engagement, and parent leadership.
In addition to our programs, the East Orange Child Development Corporation sponsors other community-based projects to support childcare efforts and provide a meaningful improvement in the quality of life for the residents of this community.
The EOCDC centralized kitchen serves 1,200 children and teachers with nutritional meals, providing breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack five days per week.
Welcome to East Orange Child Development Corporation
Take a look into a day at East Orange Child Development Corporation. We are proud to offer a safe environment for the young children of East Orange to grow and learn while also providing valuable resources to their families and the community.
East Orange Child Development Corporation is a proud community partner of the KinderSmile Foundation for 15 years. KinderSmile Community Oral Health Centers Bloomfield, Newark, and Trenton have continued to increase access to oral health education and dental care for NJ's most vulnerable and underserved populations.
About Head Start
We are members of the New Jersey Head Start Association, representing the many Early Head Start and Head Start programs serving children and families throughout the state. Together, we are united in our belief that every child should grow up knowing that they are beautiful, smart, loved, and respected.
Head Start programs are an integral part of the community, connecting with schools, businesses, and families. We are proud to have an extensive network of volunteers that assist in the classrooms, provide medical services, and donate needed materials.
Studies show that Head Start children have a higher likelihood of graduating high school, attending college, and receiving a post-secondary degree, license, or certification. Head Start also generates social, emotional, and behavioral development, leading to improved self-control and self-esteem in children and increased positive parenting practices.
