The Mary McLeod Bethune Life Center, located in the Greenville community of Jersey City, has become an epicenter for creativity and inspiration. We offer residents and visitors an unparalleled experience to engage in cultural arts, fitness, wellness, and educational activities. Dedicated to preserving the culture of Jersey City and enhancing interactions amongst diverse groups, The Bethune Center offers a welcoming atmosphere for adults, seniors, and families. We also serve the community by providing space for meetings, workshops, trainings seminars, and classes, as well as rental space for private events and expos.
**All of the Mary McLeod Bethune Center events are posted to the Bethune Center Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/bethunecenter/ or you can call (201) 547-3087.
CLASSES
All classes on The Bethune Center schedule are free and open to the public
BRIEF HISTORY & TIMELINE
Mary Jane McLeod Bethune (born Mary Jane McLeod; July 10, 1875 – May 18, 1955) was an American educator, stateswoman, philanthropist, humanitarian, womanist, and civil rights activist. Bethune founded the National Council for Negro Women in 1935, established the organization’s flagship journal Aframerican Women’s Journal, and resided as president or leader for myriad African American women’s organizations including the National Association for Colored Women and the National Youth Administration’s Negro Division.
Mary McLeod Bethune Park – In the summer of 2021 the City opened the gates of the newly constructed Bethune Park. This outdoor addition to the Center serves as a hub for family activities, cultural events, outdoor markets, festivals, and much more. Unique in its design, the space features a performance stage with amphitheater seating, a children’s playground, picnic areas, a pavilion, and chess tables. The amenities that the Bethune Center is loved and recognized for has now been brought to the outdoors for the community enjoyment. For more information please call (201) 547-3087
Community Gathering & Event Space – The Bethune Center serves as a multi-use facility for community functions. Depending on the request, we offer free space for public assemblies, information sessions, meetings, community forums, career opportunities, educational trainings, and more. In addition, we also offer private event space at affordable rates. This includes activities such as birthday parties, wedding banquets, award ceremonies, baby showers, entertainment, and much more. Click on the links below to our online applications, and begin planning your next event and/or community function.
Per Diem Application (For Private Events): https://www.cognitoforms.com/CityOfJerseyCity1/bethunecenterperdiemapplication
Facility Use Application (For Community Functions):
https://www.cognitoforms.com/CityOfJerseyCity1/BethuneCenterMeetingFacilityUsageApplication
Programming (Classes): The Bethune Center offers a vast array of free City sponsored classes for the Jersey City community to enjoy and benefit from. We make it our priority to seek out the best instructors in the fields of health & fitness, wellness, education, and the arts. *Free Parking Available. *Registration May Be Required For Certain Activities.
*Please note that times and dates shown may not reflect accurate schedules , as our programs have recently changed. Follow us on facebook/BethuneCenter and Instagram@BethuneCenter for the latest information.
CONTACT INFO
Alvin D. Pettit / Program Director
Call (201) 547-3083
