Bailey Rowan from Archway (Left) with the 2025 New Beginnings graduates
On Friday, May 16th, participants of the New Beginnings Young Parent Program came together for the annual Thank You Tea to express their gratitude to the community partners who supported their journey to graduation.
Since its inception in 1990, the program has seen over 1,000 parents successfully complete their high school education. This year, six dedicated young parents celebrated their graduation.
New Beginnings is a partnership between the Abbotsford School District, Ministry of Children and Family Development, and Archway Community Services.
“The dedication and perseverance of our young parents never fails to inspire me. The annual tea is not only an opportunity to thank the community but also to celebrate the graduates’ hard work and determination to complete their studies and create a brighter future for their families,” said Maria Cargnelli, the associate director of early years and counselling programs at Archway.
“Each graduate’s journey is unique, filled with challenges and triumphs. We are incredibly proud of them as they enter a new chapter filled with endless possibilities.”
One of the graduates commented on their experience with the New Beginnings daycare.
“I was a bit nervous at first since my child had never been looked after by anyone other than family, but it’s been amazing. I can’t believe how much my son has flourished,” said one of the graduates.
A highlight of the event is the presentation of quilts for the graduates’ children donated by the Abbotsford Quilters Guild.
“The quilts are more than just beautiful pieces of art, they show our graduates how much time and heart the community is investing in their success. We’d like to thank every member of the Abbotsford Quilters Guild for making a lasting impact on our students’ lives,” said Stephanie Oldendorf, New Beginnings supervisor.
“We’d also like to thank the Abbotsford Quilters Guild who provided one of the graduates with a $500 scholarship at the event to attend the University of the Fraser Valley’s (UFV) psychology program.”
New Beginnings graduate with representatives from Abbotsford Quilters Guild
The event was attended by officials from the Abbotsford School District, including School Board Trustee, Stan Petersen, as well as the Vice Principal of Bakerview Centre for Learning, Laura Hoeppner. Representatives from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, Fraser Valley Child Development, the Abbotsford Quilters Guild, Abbotsford Kiwanis, Crowne Pointe, and Archway Community Services were also in attendance.
New Beginnings provides flexible part-time and full-time programs for parents to complete or upgrade their high school education. Students have access to high-quality on-site childcare, parenting courses, an on-site satellite Archway Food Bank and individual supports.
“Each graduate’s journey is unique, filled with challenges and triumphs. We are incredibly proud of them as they enter a new chapter filled with endless possibilities.”