Learn about us, and our mission.

Created in 2001 by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Children’s Futures works across Central Jersey to ensure that all children and families get off to a healthy start in life. At our core, we aim to increase opportunities for health and wellness and to ward off health and social problems that can lead to a lifetime of illness and dependency.

Because no single agency can claim the necessary expertise, authority and resources to accomplish these goals alone, Children’s Futures collaborates with public and private agencies across multiple sectors, including education, health and social welfare. Since 2001, the hallmark of our work has been our commitment to using evidence-based programs and measuring agreed-upon outcome objectives. For our efforts, Children’s Futures has been recognized nationally as an exemplary U.S. non-profit organization. We invite you to view the video below to see how Children’s Futures is working to improve the lives of Mercer County children and families.

Children’s Futures is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve health and development outcomes for children and their families. To achieve our mission, we formally collaborate with schools, social service providers, health care agencies, faith institutions, civic associations, employers and others around school-readiness and success strategies that have the greatest positive impact on children’s immediate health needs, as well as long-term development.

Drawing on the latest research in the fields of prevention and public health, our strategies include but are not limited to:

  • Health Education and Outreach
  • Prenatal Care Services
  • Nurse Home Visiting
  • Case Management
  • Quality Child Care
  • Health Literacy
  • Family Support Services (including after-school)
  • Professional Training and Technical Assistance

In addition to the services listed above, we regularly convene conferences and forums, provide training and technical assistance to area agencies, produce reports on the health and well-being of children, and advocate for policy changes most like to positively impact disadvantaged families.

Meet the board members

Philip M. Bonaparte, M.D.
Chairman, Board of Directors

Gregory Seaton, Ph.D.
Vice-Chairman, Board of Directors

Alphonso (Al) Bullock

Micah Freeman, RN

Yazminelly Gonzalez

Spencer Lester
CEO/CFO/Project Manager

Julene Evans-Murage, M.D.

Honorable Douglas H. Palmer

Meet the staff members

Tonya Bellamy
Information Management Specialist

Mechelle Gaymon
Logistics and Operations Assistant

James Graham
Fatherhood and Community Services Coordinator

June R. Gray
Director of Family Support Intervention

Diamante Hall
Information Management/Office Assistant

Tamika Hall 
Operational & Program Services Coordinator

Cynthia Hampton
Home Visiting Nurse

LaToya Henry
Senior Case Manager

Dynell Kellyman, Ed.D.
Chief Operating Officer/Assistant Program Manager

Spencer Lester
CEO/CFO/Project Manager

Danielle McKenith
Home Visiting Nurse

Ashley Neblett
Doula Supervisor

Zarina Paz 
Case Manager

Cynthia Reed
Director of Operations & Finance