WESTAMPTON, NJ – Yesterday marked the Grand Opening of Community Blend at Best Sellers Café, an initiative led by Superintendent Dr. Ashanti Holley in partnership with the Burlington County Library System (BCLS) and the Transitions program of the Burlington County Special Services School District (BCSSSD). This initiative provides young adults aged 18-21 with hands-on work experience through Community-Based and Work-Based Learning Instruction, equipping them with valuable job skills.
We sincerely thank Deputy County Commissioner Allison Eckel, Assemblywoman Andrea Katz, Commissioner Tom Pullion, Board of Education President Mr. Carr, BCSSSD students and staff, and all who have supported this initiative. Their contributions and commitment to student success help make programs like this possible.
The restoration of the café service was made possible by a $1.4 million grant awarded to BCSSSD by the New Jersey Department of Education to help expand programming for the district's Transition School. This funding has played a crucial role in creating new opportunities for students to gain meaningful workforce experience.
"The Community Blend at Best Sellers Café is more than a café. It gives students real-world experience, building skills and confidence for success. This partnership with the Burlington County Library creates meaningful opportunities that empower students and strengthen the Community. We are proud to see them thrive and grateful for our partners' support," said Superintendent Dr. Ashanti Holley.
"Burlington County is a community that supports inclusion and strives to provide opportunities for all residents to learn and thrive," said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel. "The Burlington County Library System and Burlington County Special Services School are essential to this goal. By partnering together, they are enhancing the library and creating new opportunities for students to interact and learn skills that will help them find work, live independently, and pursue their dreams."
The name "Community Blend" represents the collaboration between BCLS and the Transitions program, emphasizing their goal of preparing young adults for the workforce. The term "Blend" symbolizes the integration of student skills, library resources, and real-world work experiences to create a meaningful learning environment.
"Every New Jersey student should have opportunities to reach their highest potential, regardless of their zip code or their family's income. I'm excited to support programs like this one that help Burlington County students learn valuable job and life skills," added Assemblywoman Andrea Katz.
Through BCSSSD's Work-Based Learning and Work Study Programs, the café serves the Community and fosters independence and employability among its participants. This partnership provides a space for young adults to develop job skills, engage with the public, and build connections to support their future success.
We are excited to see Community Blend at Best Sellers Café become a hub for learning, growth, and inclusion—demonstrating the power of partnerships in shaping the future of our students.