Asking for help is hard. Thousands of New Jersey residents live with addiction and severe mental health conditions, but shame, fear, obligations, and real barriers like a lack of housing and insurance, can make taking a first step feel impossible. Where It Begins honors that reality and the courage it takes to seek help. It recognizes the complex and nonlinear nature of recovery and progress that looks like many beginnings. Where It Begins sheds light on the brave journey toward whole-person transformation our clients undertake – and the vital role of community in guiding those beginnings toward lasting change.

Join Integrity House for an unforgettable event experience featuring cocktail hour, dinner, premier jazz band Carrie Jackson & Jazzin’ All Stars, powerful stories of recovery, and more, hosted by Emmy® Award-winning broadcaster Steve Adubato, Ph.D.

Proceeds from the 2025 Integrity House Gala support the Integrity Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), a single access point for outpatient mental health, addiction treatment, physical health, and care coordination services. The Integrity CCBHC serves hundreds of individuals throughout Newark and beyond. In 2024, the clinic served 1,308 community members, a 17% increase from 2023.

The evening will honor three outstanding community leaders:

Joseph A. Hayden, Jr., Esq.

Criminal Defense Attorney, Pashman Stein Walder Hayden P.C.

Recognized for his generous support and 15 years of dedicated service as an Integrity House Trustee.

George Helmy

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

Honored for his leadership and tireless advocacy in advancing integrated behavioral health care.

The Honorable Julien Xavier Neals

United States District Judge for the District of New Jersey

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to justice, equity, and public service, and his deep-rooted dedication to the Newark community.