Held on November 21 at the Hilton Short Hills, the 2025 Integrity House Where It Begins Gala brought together supporters, partners, and advocates who recognize recovery is fostered and strengthened through community.

Live music by Carrie Jackson & the Jazzin’ All Stars set the tone as we honored three outstanding leaders whose work reflects a deep commitment to justice, equity, and community:

Joseph A. Hayden Jr., Esq.
Integrity House Trustee and Criminal Defense Attorney, Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C.

George Helmy
Executive Vice President & Chief External Affairs and Policy Officer, RWJ Barnabas Health

The Honorable Julien Xavier Neals
United States District Judge for the District of New Jersey

The evening was hosted by Emmy® award-winning broadcaster Steve Adubato, Ph.D. A powerful full-circle moment closed the night when Integrity House alumna Jasryn shared her journey from incarceration to public service, bringing the meaning of Where It Begins to life and underscoring the vital role community plays in sustaining recovery.

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the 2025 Integrity House Gala raised more than $200,000 in support of the Integrity Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), which provides centralized access to integrated mental health, addiction treatment, primary care, and care coordination services for individuals across Newark and beyond.

View the 2025 Integrity House Gala Ad Journal Here

View 2025 Gala Photos Here