We are proud to recognize an incredible milestone—June Albanowski, our Director of Youth Services, has marked 30 years with Anchor House! While her official anniversary was in May, we waited until June to surprise her and make the celebration even more special. It is also fitting we celebrated June in June!
June began her journey with Anchor House as an intern through Rider University. Since then, she has worn many hats—including Case Manager and Program Coordinator—before rising to her current role as Director of Youth Services.
When asked what keeps her motivated after three decades, June shared, “It doesn’t feel like a job. I wake up happy to go somewhere I’m giving back to the community, working with youth, and empowering them to succeed.”
June shares the expertise she has gained over the last three decades serving on the NJ Shelter Providers Consortium and the Mercer County Youth Services Commission where she serves as the Co-Chair of the Needs Assessment Committee, a role she truly enjoys. Over the years, she has built strong relationships with many community partners and is grateful for these connections.
When asked what she’s most proud of in her 30 years at Anchor House, June highlighted the meaningful work she’s done directly with youth—especially those who still keep in touch with her today. She also shared a personal accomplishment: earning her MSW while continuing to serve full-time at Anchor House. Other experiences especially meaningful to June include receiving the NJYCAF award and her two decades of participation in the Anchor House Foundation’s Ride for Runaways.
When asked what advice she would give to someone starting at Anchor House, June’s immediate response was simple: “Patience.” This was a piece of advice she would give too to her younger self starting out Anchor House. She went on to encourage new staff to celebrate the small milestones when working with youth, reminding them that these are important stepping stones toward bigger achievements. When reflecting on the legacy she hopes to leave at Anchor House, June simply says, “That I made a difference in the lives of the youth we served.”
“Reaching 30 years of service is a remarkable achievement,” said Kim McNear, Executive Director. June’s longstanding commitment to this organization and to the youth we serve reflects her dedication and consistency. We are grateful for her contributions and proud to celebrate this important milestone with her.
Here are more quotes from others celebrating June and her 30 years at Anchor House:
“For three decades, June Albanowski has been a steady hand and an unwavering advocate of Anchor House. Through every challenge and every triumph, she has stood in the trenches consistent, and always guided by care. Her legacy is written in the lives she’s touched and the strength she’s brought to our mission.” – Ben Thornton, Former Anchor House Director of Outreach & Housing Initiatives
“June has been around for a long time obviously. In that time, she has been able to help and influence so many youth and staff alike. This is evidenced by the fact that she still has contact with clients and staff from decades ago.” – Jay Neiderman, Residential Coordinator (and close to 30 years himself) pictured with June’s proud mom, Barbara.
“Wow, what an amazing accomplishment on your 30 year anniversary with Anchor House! You must have started when you were a child! Your dedication and commitment to this worthy organization and reducing youth homelessness is remarkable and humbling. It’s been a pleasure and privilege working with you!” – Elaine Tanimura, Board Vice President, Anchor House
“June, congratulations on 30 amazing years of dedicated service to the kids and youth of Anchor House! I can only imagine the lives that have been touched in all that time.” – DeWayne Tolbert, Former Board President, Anchor House
“Over 30 years at Anchor House, June has become a cornerstone of our community—offering support, insight, and care to youth and peers alike. Her knowledge and consistency have made her a trusted voice in the room, and her kindness never goes unnoticed. We’re lucky to do this work alongside someone so genuinely committed.” – Joe Halsey, Founder CEO of the James R Halsey Foundation of the Arts (a community partner)
