Passaic Today

Angela Castro, a senior at Montclair State University majoring in Child Advocacy and Policy with a minor in Social Work, is committed to community service. Raised in Paterson, New Jersey, she has focused her efforts on giving back to the community that supported her.

Castro's preferred place for volunteering is Oasis, a nonprofit organization where she once received after-school care and summer programs. Now, she mentors children, serves meals, and organizes donations there. “It feels natural to go back, to give back to the place that gave me so much,” she says.

In the fall of 2024, Castro interned at the New Destiny Family Success Center in Paterson. Her role involved supporting children and families by assisting with applications, facilitating ESL courses and nutrition workshops, distributing clothing and hygiene supplies, and running after-school programs for young students. “This internship gave me insight on what it truly means to be an advocate for children and their families,” she notes.

Castro also contributed time at St. Peter’s Haven in Clifton by sorting and distributing food to families in need. She participated in service activities through Montclair’s Latin American Student Organization and the Omega Phi Chi Multicultural Sorority. “It’s rewarding to know that a small thing you do can change someone’s day – or even transform who they are,” she comments.

Her involvement as a commuter student leader at Montclair inspired her interest in pursuing a career in higher education. Antonio Talamo from the Student Center and Commuter Life remarks: “Angela exemplifies what it means to be a servant leader...she has consistently shown a deep commitment to public service.” He adds that “Angela uses every opportunity to uplift others.”

This summer, Castro will begin pursuing a master’s degree in Higher Education at Rowan University. At graduation, her cap will bear the message: “Cada sacrificio tiene su recompensa” (every sacrifice has its reward). Reflecting on this message, Castro states: “It’s a reminder that everything I’ve sacrificed...is for a greater purpose.”

Montclair State University will hold its Commencement ceremonies on May 7-8, 2025, at Prudential Center in Newark.