Photos & Testimonials

Click here for the photos which are organized by program areas and represent various aspects of our work.

Testimonials

I learned so much and will be able to utilize all the information in the future to better myself and my business. Amber Harris, founder, Bright Beginnings Day Care, Build Your Own Business graduate

I want to thank you…for spearheading this project and for causing us to reflect that life began in a garden and that libraries, like gardens, have the power to inspire and transform lives. I can think of no more gift appropriate for the Trenton Public Library at this time than our wonderful garden. Adrienne Maddox Hayling, president, Trenton Public Library Board of Trustees

Isles has done a first-rate job developing self-reliant families through programs like job training for at-risk youth, healthy eating through successful community gardening, financial literacy training, affordable housing development, and responsible homeownership counseling, to name just a few. We are fortunate to have Isles as a positive and creative force in our community. Congressman Rush Holt (D-NJ-12)

For over 25 years, Isles has been a beacon of hope for so many families in the Trenton-area. Through a multi-faceted approach, the Isles program continues to help low-income families and individuals expand their self reliance and pursue real economic opportunities. Congressman Chris Smith (R- NJ-04)

The fact that Isles is graduating 30 new entrepreneurs from its first business planning course is astounding. It shows us that there are many people who have considered small business projects, but have not had the funding or training to get them off the ground. This program has the potential of uplifting and transforming the lives of so many people. State Senate President Pro Tem Shirley Turner

Our city has many historical and architectural treasures, but none is more cherished than the Trenton Public Library and its Trentoniana Collection. On behalf of our residents, I commend Isles, its YouthBuild students, and Wyeth for planning and putting in this new open space for readers of all ages to enjoy the library experience It comes at no cost to the city – but will bring great benefit – and is a shining example of the community spirit that is at the heart of the Trenton transformation Trenton Mayor Douglas H. Palmer

We all need to feel a part of something; especially something that works We all need to feel valued and respected for what we do The business world is a hard place to get this Being involved with Isles business groups has allowed me to share my experience and hope with others, as well as receive the same from others. Karen Culp-Miller, graduate of Isles’ Build Your Own Business class and new business owner

The cool thing about what I have learned at Isles is that I have some options about what I want to do,” YouthBuild trainee Mark Bell.

Isles’ YouthBuild Institute staff has taught me how to cope with some bad decisions I made and build on the better aspects of myself for my future. … I want to take what I learned and pass it on to the next generation. Deron Washington 2008 YouthBuild graduate.