Burlington County Group Named 'New Jersey Heroes'

First Lady Mary Pat Christie Names Cathi Rendfrey, Director of the Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC) at the Burlington County YMCA.

    (L-R Cathi Rendfrey (WOC), First Lady Mary Pat Christie, Rene Mainor (WOC))

Striving to transform the lives of women in transition, Cathi Rendfrey, the Director of the Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC) at the YMCA of Burlington County, demonstrates a firm commitment to make a difference in the lives of others through her work to put displaced homemakers on a path to self sufficiency. First Lady Mary Pat Christie today announced the selection of Ms. Rendfrey as the latest New Jersey Hero during a visit to the Women’s Opportunity Center in Mount Laurel.
“I’m so inspired by the work Cathi is doing to help put women and their families back on their feet again,” said Mrs. Christie. “Giving women the tools they need to be successful in the job market is not only empowering but it brings a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves and their future.
”What’s even more impressive is the fact that so many women who have used the services of the Center come back to help new participants,” Mrs. Christie added. “That speaks volumes to quality of service provided here and the dedication of Cathi Rendfrey. I am delighted to name her a New Jersey Hero.”
The Women’s Opportunity Center helps women in transition - those who have experienced the loss of their primary source of income from either separation, divorce, or the death/disability of a spouse. From employment and computer workshops to self esteem classes and emergency support, the WOC provides a broad spectrum of services to help women achieve their short and long-term goals as they move toward self-sufficiency.
Since its inception in 1991, the Center has served more than 3000 women in Burlington and Camden counties. Approximately 200-250 clients are assisted annually. The program has grown from a small “closet-sized” space to its current location at the YMCA of Burlington County.
Ms. Rendfrey has been instrumental in the success of the Center, establishing a computer resource center to help with employment searches as well as securing educational funding awards to assist with education and training services for participants.
For more information about the Women’s Opportunity Center, visit www.woc-bc.org.
New Jersey Heroes is an initiative of First Lady Mary Pat Christie to showcase the positive ways people and organizations are impacting New Jersey in their own unique ways. Every month, a new local hero will be designated from nominations submitted by residents through the First Lady’s website. To nominate a hero, go to the bottom of the page at www.nj.gov/governor/firstlady and click the NJ Heroes tab. Follow the application instructions and submit the person you believe is a true New Jersey Hero.