Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Grand Opening of The Trenton Center for Healing, Unity, and Belonging: A New Era for Justice and Community Healing Begins in Trenton 

Trenton, NJ – Creative Change Counseling proudly announces the official grand opening of The Trenton Center for Healing, Unity, and Belonging (The HUB) on Tuesday, December 3rd from 11am - 2pm in Trenton, New Jersey at the HUB. This groundbreaking center provides a community-focused approach to justice, placing a strong emphasis on restorative practices, healing, and proactive community engagement over punitive measures.

Thanks to the County of Mercer under the leadership of Daniel R. Benson, County Executive, the Office of the Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Juvenile Justice Commission, this two-year Restorative and Transformative Communities Pilot Program will focus on reducing initial and repeat youth involvement with the youth justice system.

Purpose and Mission: The HUB serves as a welcoming, safe space for Trenton residents, offering alternative pathways to address and resolve conflict, promote accountability, and support youth at risk of involvement in the juvenile justice system. With intervention, diversion, and prevention initiatives at the forefront, The HUB focuses on breaking the cycles that lead young people to enter or re-enter the system, fostering long-term resilience and hope in the community.

Community Impact: The HUB’s mission extends beyond traditional justice, aiming to create a community-based model that addresses underlying causes of conflict and provides resources for both youth and families. By tackling the factors that contribute to justice involvement—such as trauma, limited educational support, and lack of community resources—The HUB seeks to restore relationships and empower youth, reducing recidivism and promoting healthier paths forward.

Restorative and Transformative Justice Components: Through specialized programs, The HUB facilitates dialogues between those impacted by harm, creating space for healing, accountability, and the opportunity to repair relationships. Our restorative practices support young people in taking responsibility in a way that fosters growth rather than punishment, while transformative justice efforts target systemic issues such as inequity, trauma, and the need for community resources.

Youth Intervention, Diversion, and Prevention Initiatives: Our youth-centered programs are dedicated to early intervention and provide proactive support to prevent justice involvement. By offering wraparound services, life skills training, and access to counseling and mentorship, The HUB is equipped to guide youth and families through challenging circumstances, helping them make positive decisions and build constructive paths.

Community Collaboration and Engagement: In partnership with local organizations, schools, law enforcement, and stakeholders, The HUB’s programming is tailored specifically to Trenton’s unique needs. Our collaborative approach ensures the community’s voice is reflected in our efforts, strengthening trust and encouraging a shared vision for sustainable change.

Invitation to Join Us: We invite community members and leaders to join us in this transformative initiative. Together, we can shape a more just and supportive future for Trenton. Learn more about The HUB, including how you can get involved, by visiting https://linktr.ee/youbelongatthehub or contacting Lakisha Adams at ladams@creativechangeinc.org.