About the CAOC
Building a Legacy of Care
The Clifton Adult Opportunity Center (CAOC) was born out of a profound community need. Founded in 1982, the center was established by a dedicated group of local educators and parents who recognized that adults with developmental disabilities often faced a "service cliff" after graduating from the public school system. What began as a grassroots effort to provide continued growth and social engagement has evolved into a cornerstone of Passaic County’s support network.
For over four decades, CAOC has remained a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization run by Grace Lisbona and a volunteer board of directors, committed to the belief that every individual—regardless of physical or intellectual challenge—deserves a space to learn, contribute, and belong.
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Our Non-Profit Status
We operate as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to ensure that our focus remains exactly where it should be: on our members. Because we rely on community support rather than corporate profit, your tax-deductible donations are the lifeblood of our center.
Join us in building a more inclusive world, one gift at a time.
Clifton, NJ:
A Community of Inclusion
Clifton, New Jersey, is known for its diverse neighborhoods. Clifton offers the ideal landscape for community integration. Our central location allows our participants to engage directly with local businesses, social service organizations and public parks, turning the entire city into a classroom for independence.
With its robust public infrastructure and a long history of supporting its senior and disabled residents, Clifton embodies the values of accessibility and neighborly care that make our mission possible. We are proud to be an integral part of a city that celebrates the unique contributions of all its citizens.
Empowerment
through Skill-building
To provide hands-on life skill training- from building maintenance, automotive basics, daily living activities, to crafts that encourage independence
Active Citizenship
To break down social barriers by facilitating regular community service and volunteer opportunities, proving that our members are vital contributors to society.
Support and Care
To provide hands-on life skill training- from building maintenance, automotive basics, daily living activities, to crafts that encourage independence
Dignity and Inclusion
To ensure every individual feels useful, needed, and valued in an environment that prioritizes their physical and emotional well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
We cater to developmentally disabled adults, age 21 and older.
Tours can be scheduled through the following methods:
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Our Appointment Forms (see below)
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E-mail us at jodi@thecaoc.com with the subject line "Tour Appointment"
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Call us at 973-777-7114
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The CAOC is always accepting applications.
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Applications are available here
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For more information, e-mail us at jodi@thecaoc.com with the subject line "Employment Inquiry" or call us at 973-777-7114.
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Yes, we have transportation available for our clients.
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E-mail us at jodi@thecaoc.com with the subject line "Transportation"
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Call us at 973-777-7114
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We serve the following New Jersey counties:
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Passaic
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Bergen
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Essex
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Hudson
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Make an Appointment
We’re here to help you take the first step
Business Info
Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
900 Clifton Ave, Clifton NJ, 07013
Lot #8
Address
Our building is located in Lot #8
of the Clifton Municipal Development
Our Mission
The Clifton Adult Opportunity Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through our intimate, community-focused Day Program.
By providing a nurturing environment that prioritizes personal dignity and skill development, we bridge the gap between our center and the local community. Our mission is to ensure that every individual we serve has the opportunity to build lasting friendships, gain essential life skills, and achieve their highest level of independence in a place where they truly belong.
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