North Jersey Friendship House (NJFH) recently celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of its new headquarters at 496 Kinderkamack Road in the Borough of Oradell.
Friendship House is a nonprofit that supports individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs.
The new location houses NJFH’s Day and Vocational programs, as well as administrative offices, creating a centralized, accessible space for its growing services. The celebration took place on the front lawn and was attended by community leaders, elected officials, board members, and the individuals and families served by NJFH.
Guests included Kimberly Parra, director of Constituent Services for Congressman Josh Gottheimer; Senator Holly Schepisi; and Bergen County Commissioners Joan Voss, Tracy Zur, and Germaine Ortiz. Local leadership was also in strong attendance, including Oradell Mayor James Koth, borough council, administration, and zoning board members, along with Emerson Mayor Danielle DiPaola.
NJFH Board Chair Carla Noriega and several of the Board of Trustees members joined the celebration, as did generous supporters: Michael Kates, NJFH’s Honorary Trustee and attorney; Audrey Newman, former Trustee; and Fred Castrovinci, Regional President of NJ Commercial and Business Banking of Valley Bank, whose team supported the lending necessary to acquire the property. “Friendship House provides important support and services for people with developmental and mental health needs, and we are proud to have played a role in helping them achieve their goal of opening their new headquarters,” said Fred Castrovinci, “With this new space, they can now offer expanded services to more people in the surrounding communities.”
During the program, CEO Dinorah D’Auria, PsyD expressed deep gratitude to NJFH’s dedicated staff and celebrated the organization’s true inspiration: its members and their families.
“For over half a century, North Jersey Friendship House has stood as a pillar of strength and support for individuals with varying abilities. Today we celebrate the beginning of new journeys, increased opportunities, and the continued growth of a community built on dignity, empowerment, and inclusion. Let’s continue to champion a world where every person—regardless of ability—has access to the tools, opportunities, and community support they need to thrive,” D’Auria said.
Guests were then invited inside for guided tours of the program space, hosted by staff and members. Light refreshments were provided by FH Catering, in collaboration with FH CHOP, and dessert was generously donated by Carson’s Cookie Dough.
