MAAC April Newsletter 2026

MAAC to Host Biggest College Day Yet

Planning is underway for the biggest MAAC event to date! On May 15, the third annual College Day for high school students, many of whom have experienced homelessness and housing insecurity, is set to transform the lives of more than 100 high school juniors and seniors from across North Jersey.

Taking place at Kean University, this multifaceted event hosted by MAAC and Essex Regional Education Service Commission (ERESC) includes workshops, guest speakers, a college fair, and more. The success of past College Day events has created a momentum of energy and excitement among its facilitators.

"This is more than an event—it’s a movement,” says Andrea Nicole Smith, executive director of MAAC. “We’re creating a space filled with love, joy, music, and excitement for these scholars. No boundaries. No ceilings. Just possibilities.”

What Happens When you Invest in a Young Person

One of the most exciting things about College Day is the transformation that takes place, as scholars learn about opportunities and pathways to college and careers that they might not have known about otherwise.

“For many of these scholars, success has only been a dream. This day is about opening their eyes to all that’s out there for them—helping them realize success is possible and within their reach,” says Andrea. “When they make connections with successful business leaders who once were homeless; when they meet one-on-one with college admissions folks who believe in them and show them the possibilities, they light up with hope. It’s transformative.”

An Experience Designed with Intention

This day isn’t just workshops and speakers—the scholars receive the royal treatment with a live DJ greeting them, breakfast and lunch buffet, treats, giveaways, and free Summer Boot Camp scholarships for all the scholars. Oh, and a few new surprises this year that can’t be revealed just yet.

“Over 100 students from three counties will be in the room—dreaming bigger, reaching higher, and stepping into their future. They literally leave this event with a new outlook on life,” Andrea says. “Let me tell you—this is going to be an EPIC experience!”

Want to be part of something powerful?

We’re inviting our community to support, donate, and show up for our youth. Every contribution helps us create a life-changing experience.

Be part of the movement. Pour into the next generation. Help us remind our students that anything is possible.

DONATE TO MINDFUL AWARENESS ACADEMY FOR CHILDREN TODAY

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A Note from Andrea

This past year has brought its share of challenges, and through it all, I’ve been reminded how powerful the support of a caring community can be. Your encouragement, kindness, and presence have helped me continue moving forward, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

In the midst of a particularly difficult time, my children Kennedy and Cameron gave me a gift that turned out to be exactly what I needed—a tiny, two-pound kitten. I named her Poppy, a name that holds deep meaning for me, honoring my father, who has always been my rock and foundation.

What I didn’t fully realize at the time was just how much comfort and healing this small, gentle presence would bring. Animals have a unique and powerful way of meeting us where we are—offering unconditional love, quiet companionship, and moments of joy when we need them most. Poppy quickly became a constant source of light in my days. She follows me from room to room, greets me with excitement when I come home, and fills simple moments with warmth and connection.

Poppy’s presence has been a reminder of the healing power of love in its purest form—the kind that asks for nothing and gives everything. In many ways, she represents the same sense of support and comfort that this community has given me throughout the year.

So this month, in a lighthearted but heartfelt way, I would like to recognize Poppy as our “Scholar of the Month.” Not for academic achievement, but for her remarkable ability to teach us something equally important: the value of companionship, the impact of small joys, and the quiet strength found in love and support.

Thank you all for being part of that same circle of care and encouragement in my life.

Andrea Nicole

Executive Director, MAAC

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