Celebrating Our Past and Present on International Women’s Day

In 1968, Robins’ Nest was founded by a small group of women committed to making a difference in their community. In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, we recognize this amazing group of women and the legacy they have left on the state of New Jersey.

Robins’ Nest began when a foster mother came to speak at a meeting of the Junior Women’s Club of Woodbury. She talked about how teenagers, subject to abuse and neglect at home, often ran away – only to be locked up along with hardened criminals. She had taken in a few of these teens herself, to help them regain their confidence, continue their education, and go on to lead productive lives.

The young women were so moved by the foster mother’s hard work that they vowed to expand her care and compassion to help other troubled teens in the area. The Women’s Club members began speaking to various community organizations, asking for their help to purchase a house that would serve their needs. In September 1968, Robins’ Nest was officially incorporated as the first group home for girls in the state of New Jersey, all thanks to the dedication and passion shown by this group of women.

Today, women make up the large majority of the team at Robins’ Nest, with seven women currently serving on our Senior Management Team, including our Chief Operating Officer, Melissa Fox.  The dedication that the women of Robins’ Nest show each day to the families and individuals we serve is truly remarkable, and valued by everyone who walks through our doors.

Two long-tenured ambassadors of the Robins’ Nest mission currently serve on our Senior Management team: Lisa Haya, our Vice President of Child Permanency and Protection, has been with Robins’ Nest since 1992, and Kathy Wingate, our Chief Financial Officer, has been with Robins’ Nest since 1994.