Meet the Provider
The Heart Behind Destiny Family Child Care
Nerline Paul
Founder & Provider
Founded DFCC
November 2014
Licensed Through Programs for Parents
April 2015
Nerline Paul
For Nerline Paul, working with children has never been simply a career—it has been a calling. Her journey began at a young age through her involvement at EBNJ, where she served in various roles within the church and developed a lasting commitment to nurturing and supporting young people.
A Career Rooted in Education
Professionally, Nerline began her career as a teacher at St. Leo's Catholic Schools, where she spent six years in the classroom. While she loved teaching, she realized that she wanted to understand and support the whole child beyond academics. This desire led her to Kean University, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work and became a Licensed Social Worker in the State of New Jersey.
Expanding Her Impact Through Social Work
Her background in social work allowed her to expand her impact in meaningful ways. Nerline worked with Family Connections in Newark, NJ as a counselor serving children with special needs and later joined Newark Preschool Council as a social worker, where she advocated for young children, particularly those with special needs. These experiences strengthened her understanding of child development, family dynamics, advocacy, and the importance of meeting each child where they are.
A Life of Community Service
Her dedication to children has also been deeply connected to her service in the community. Over the years, Nerline has served as a Sunday School Teacher, Children's Choir Director, Children's Church Department Director, and Youth & Young Adults President. Each role has shaped her approach to caring for children and strengthened her belief that children thrive when they are surrounded by encouragement, consistency, and genuine care.
Family at the Center
Nerline is married to Emmanuel Paul, and together they have three children—Leah, Jahell, and Nathan. Her family has been an important part of her journey, and her experiences as a mother have further shaped her understanding of the trust families place in those who care for their children.
Turning a Dream Into Destiny
In November 2014, with the support of her family, Nerline took a significant step toward making a longtime dream a reality when she opened her family child care program in her home. Just a few months later, in April 2015, Destiny Family Child Care became licensed through Programs for Parents.
Since then, Nerline has continued to build DFCC around the values that have guided her throughout her career: love, compassion, learning, family, and service.
Today, she brings together her experiences as an educator, social worker, mother, community leader, and child care provider to create an environment where children can feel secure, develop confidence, explore their interests, and grow at their own pace.
For Nerline, Destiny Family Child Care is more than a business. It is the fulfillment of a dream and an opportunity to make a meaningful difference during some of the most important years of a child's life.
Key Credentials & Experience
"Every child has a destiny, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of their journey."
— Nerline Paul, DFCC Provider & Founder