Inroads to Opportunities hosted its most successful fundraising event to date on Sept. 26, transforming The Grand Ballroom at Galloping Hill Golf Course into a sold-out Casino Night and Awards Celebration. The event welcomed 240 guests and raised critical funds in observance of National Disabilities Employment Awareness Month.
The evening served to celebrate the achievements of individuals with disabilities and the partners who support them. Funds raised will directly support Inroads’ programs and services across Union, Essex, and Middlesex counties, including vocational training, job placement, transition from school to work, and mental health support.
The event attracted a distinguished list of community and state figures, including Miss New Jersey 2025, Belle Nicholas, Senator Joseph Cryan, Mayor Donald A. Shaw, and other local leaders.
Honoring community partners and dedication
The celebration honored the organization’s 2025 Honorees, recognizing their commitment to advancing opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The honorees included:
- Union County Commissioner Lourdes M. Leon
- Elizabeth Public Library
- M&T Bank
- Roselle Public Library
- Bestwork Industries
- Roselle Police Chief Helder Friere, Roselle Fire Chief Christopher Laba
- Individuals Janis Arrindell, Lisa Ann Ormon, Eric Graham, and Xiomara Hernandez
Angela Calzone, Inroads president & CEO, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. “I want to give a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, Board of Directors, distinguished guests, and our dedicated program participants who inspire us every day. Together, we made Casino Night 2025 one for the history books!”
Inroads to Opportunities, formerly known as the Occupational Center of Union County, has been providing programs and services to individuals with various disabilities since 1959. Based in Roselle, the 501(c)(3) non-profit social services agency is now in its 66th year of operation.
