Creating Space for Youth Expression
At Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ), our young people are so much more than their housing status. They are artists, dreamers, and creators. What they often need most is a purposeful space to nurture those gifts. One such youth found her voice.
In this short video, watch Shabana Hassan, our Dove Learning Center Coordinator, describe the story of one young woman and how her voice was once stifled—told she was “too loud” and “disruptive.” Then she discovered our music room, where she could sing as boldly as she wanted. With encouragement and a safe place to practice, she found not just her songs—but her confidence.
“It’s a space where no one tells you to quiet down. You’re free to be yourself.” Shabana Hassan, DLC Coordinator
Beyond the Music: Building Skills for Life at the Dove Learning Center
Creativity is just one part of the equation. At our Dove Learning Center (DLC), youth work on five key areas: Education, Employment, Financial Literacy, Wellness, and Social Navigation. Whether a young person is preparing for a music performance or working on a resume, the DLC complements the “expression” space with the “preparation” space:
- Education: Support to achieve basic cognitive skills and credentials.
- Employment and Financial Literacy: Coaching on job applications, budgeting, and building sustainable futures.
- Wellness and Social Navigation: From mindfulness to conflict resolution and whole-person wellness, the DLC builds the personal and professional tools for long-term success.
Through the programs of the DLC and the hard work of our staff like Shabana, the percentage of our residential youth who successfully transitioned to a positive living environment beyond CHNJ hit a record high of 64% at the same time that we served 31% more youth than in the prior year.
Your Support Makes This Possible
Donor generosity powers not just creative spaces like our studio—but also intensive skill-building spaces like the Dove Learning Center, stocked with technology, instructors, learning modules, and frameworks. These are not extras—they’re foundational tools that help young people reclaim their stories and help them successfully transition to independent living and a positive future. Your support helps our youth “find their voice.”
