October 2026

Shining a light on lives restored, hope renewed, and futures transformed.

IN THIS EDITION

• Hope Takes Center Stage at Bridgeway's Most Successful Chairperson's Dinner Ever!
• Five Years of Poetic Medicine: Celebrating Healing, Creativity, and the Power of Words
• An Attitude of Gratitude - Bridgeway Staff Celebrate Wellness
• President and CEO Cory Storch Honored with Good Scout Award
• Nicole Crowley Joins Warren County Crisis Negotiation Team for Statewide Competition
• Wellness Brings Bridgeway Staff Together
• Community Networking Event Hosted at Bridgeway
• 🎃 Happy Halloween 🎃
• Trustee Reflection
• In the Community
• Awareness and Key Dates
• Build Your Career
• Mindful Moments

HOPE TAKES CENTER STAGE AT BRIDGEWAY'S MOST SUCCESSFUL CHAIRPERSON'S DINNER EVER!

An evening of gratitude, recognition and generosity brings the community together to Give Hope a Home.

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services welcomed 140 guests to its 2026 Chairperson's Dinner on Thursday, October 22, at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ. The evening celebrated nearly six decades of service, recognized outstanding community partners and rallied support for an exciting new chapter in Bridgeway's history.

Marlene Baldinger, Chair of Bridgeway's Board of Trustees, and Cory Storch, President and CEO, welcomed guests and officially kicked off the evening, expressing appreciation for the generosity, partnerships and shared commitment that continue to advance Bridgeway's mission.

With the theme "Give Hope a Home: A Legacy of Impact. A Future of Recovery," the celebration highlighted Bridgeway's $2 million capital campaign to transform its longtime location at 567 Morris Avenue in Elizabeth into the new Center for Integrated Outpatient Services.

FIVE YEARS OF POETIC MEDICINE: CELEBRATING HEALING, CREATIVITY, AND THE POWER OF WORDS

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services celebrated five years of poetry, self-expression, and recovery with its second annual Poetic Medicine Reading on October 22 at its Sussex County location in Newton, NJ. 

The special event brought together participants, staff, and guests to celebrate the transformative power of poetry and recognize the courage and creativity of individuals who have found their voices through the written word. 

A highlight of the celebration was the participation of John Fox, renowned poet, author of Poetic Medicine: The Healing Art of Poem-Making, and founder of the Institute for Poetic Medicine, who traveled from California to attend. Fox's work inspired the creation of Bridgeway's Poetic Medicine group five years ago, making his presence especially meaningful. 

AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE: BRIDGEWAY STAFF CELEBRATE WELLNESS

As part of Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services' October Wellness celebration, staff are embracing the connection between a healthy mind and body through a creative and meaningful Gratitude Wall Challenge.

Teams across Bridgeway were invited to create colorful displays featuring messages of gratitude, reflecting on the people, experiences and everyday moments that bring positivity to their lives.

Practicing gratitude can help reduce stress, promote emotional well-being and strengthen our connections with others, all important elements of whole-person wellness.

We are delighted to share photos of the team's creative entries, showcasing the appreciation, teamwork and positive spirit of Bridgeway staff.

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped remind us that wellness isn't just about caring for our bodies. It's also about nurturing our minds, supporting one another and recognizing the good in our everyday lives.

BRIDEGWAY PRESIDENT AND CEO CORY STORCH HONORED WITH GOOD SCOUT AWARD

Recognized for decades of leadership, advocacy and service to the community 

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services proudly congratulates President and CEO Cory Storch, who received the prestigious Good Scout Award from Scouting America's Patriots' Path Council during its annual Good Scout Awards Dinner on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Galloping Hill Caterers in Union, NJ. 

The Good Scout Award recognizes outstanding community members who exemplify the spirit of "service beyond self" through leadership, volunteerism and a lasting commitment to making Union a better place to live and work. 

For nearly 50 years, Cory has dedicated his career to improving the lives of individuals experiencing serious mental health challenges. Since joining Bridgeway in 1977, he has served in numerous leadership roles, including Team Leader, Program Director and Executive Director, before becoming President and CEO. 

BRIDGEWAY'S NICOLE CROWLEY JOINS WARREN COUNTY CRISIS NEGOTIATION TEAM FOR STATEWIDE COMPETITION

Nicole Crowley, Somerset County ARRIVE Together Director at Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services (far left), with members of the Warren County Crisis Negotiation Team during the October 16 “Best of the Best” competition. Warren County Prosecutor Jessica Cardone is pictured at far right. 

Realistic crisis scenarios and FBI evaluations strengthen collaboration between mental health professionals and law enforcement. 

On October 16, Nicole Crowley, Somerset County ARRIVE Together Director at Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, joined the Warren County Crisis Negotiation Team for a statewide “Best of the Best” competition designed to challenge crisis negotiation skills and strengthen emergency response preparedness. 

The Warren County team competed alongside five other Crisis Negotiation Teams from across New Jersey, navigating two complex, simulated crisis scenarios. Experienced FBI negotiators evaluated the teams, providing constructive feedback to help sharpen communication, negotiation and de-escalation strategies. 

WELLNESS BRINGS BRIDGEWAY STAFF TOGETHER

Caring for Others Begins with Caring for Ourselves

Staff at Bridgeway’s Mental Health Urgent Care (MHUC) for Union County, located at 615 North Broad Street in Elizabeth, celebrated Wellness Week with a refreshing opportunity to recharge and reconnect.

Enjoying sunshine and fresh air, team members shared snacks, connected with colleagues, and discussed self-care strategies that support their own mental health and well-being.

The celebration served as a reminder that caring for others begins with caring for ourselves. At Bridgeway, we don’t just promote mental health and wellness, we practice it, too!

COMMUNITY NETWORKING EVENT HOSTED BY BRIDGEWAY

Bridgeway Hosts Union County Community Networking Association Meeting, Encourages Greater Community Collaboration 

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services welcomed approximately 25 representatives from local businesses, hospitals, nonprofit organizations, social service agencies, and community organizations on October 8 for an in-person meeting of the Community Networking Association of New Jersey (CNA), Union County Chapter. 

The gathering, coordinated by Bridgeway's Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, Catarina Doria, brought community partners together to exchange information, strengthen relationships, and explore opportunities for collaboration. 

CNA is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting human and social service providers, community leaders, and businesses to better serve New Jersey residents. Through networking, resource sharing, and partnerships, CNA helps organizations expand their reach and connect individuals and families with valuable community resources. 

The Union County Chapter is working to revitalize in-person networking opportunities. Hosting the October meeting provided an opportunity to reconnect face-to-face, welcome new participants, and build momentum for greater community engagement. 

Become Involved with CNA! 

CNA welcomes all professionals. Membership is free, and there are no dues or fees. Interested in expanding your professional network, sharing resources, and building partnerships that make a difference? Visit www.CNAofNJ.org to learn more. 

Together, we can strengthen connections and create a more collaborative, resourceful communities.

🎃 Happy Halloween from Bridgeway! 👻

Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and a little spooky excitement! Whether you're dressing up, handing out treats, or enjoying the festivities, we wish you a safe and happy Halloween.

Remember, a little kindness can be the sweetest treat of all! 🧡

From all of us at Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, 
Happy Halloween to those who celebrate! 🎃🦇

Beyond the Uniform: Honoring Veterans by Supporting Their Mental Health

By Mark T. Williams, BSN, RN-BC, FMNLI, FCPP

Bridgeway Board Trustee

When we think of military service, we often picture strength, resilience, and courage. We see images of men and women in uniform, standing tall and ready to protect. But when the uniform comes off, a different battle often begins, one that is invisible to the naked eye.

In November, as we reflect on the sacrifices made by our veteran community, it's crucial that we turn our attention to a subject that is often shrouded in silence: mental health. The transition from military to civilian life is complex, and for many veterans, the psychological wounds of service can be just as profound as the physical ones.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Hoboken Community Wellness Event

Bridgeway’s Hoboken Community Wellness Event brought together 26 community partners for a day focused on health, wellness, and connection. More than 50 community members received screenings and free flu shots, along with access to local resources and services.

A special thank you to Hackensack Meridian Health for providing free health screenings, Walgreens for offering flu shots, and Charlie Health for bringing the gelato truck and helping make the day extra fun.

Union County Community Networking Association Meeting 

Bridgeway was proud to host the Union Community Networking Association meeting at our Clermont location, welcoming local providers, community organizations, and referral partners for a morning of networking and resource sharing. 

Attendees had the opportunity to introduce their programs, build new connections, and learn more about services available throughout the community. It was a great chance to strengthen local partnerships and bring even more organizations into Bridgeway’s network.

Fall Into Wellness Food & Resource Fair 

Bridgeway was represented by Samantha Shery, Senior Clinician, and Catarina Doria, Community Outreach & Engagement Coordinator, at the Fall Into Wellness Food & Resource Fair in Bayonne. 

More than 250 community members attended for food distribution, health screenings, and local resources, giving us a great opportunity to share Bridgeway services and connect with families and community partners throughout the area. 

Project Self Sufficiency Career & Health Fair

Bridgeway participated in Project Self-Sufficiency’s Work Connections Career & Community Health Fair in Newton, connecting with job seekers, community members, and local organizations. The event provided an opportunity to share information about Bridgeway’s behavioral health and community-based services while building new connections and increasing awareness of available resources in Sussex County.

Franklin Food Bank

Bridgeway’s MCORT team was out in the community with Joni and Stacey at the Franklin Food Bank, connecting with local residents and sharing information about Bridgeway’s services and behavioral health resources. Their presence helped increase awareness of available support and strengthen community connections with individuals and families in the area. 

AWARENESS & KEY DATES

NOVEMBER: 

• American Diabetes Month: Month-long focus on blood sugar health and management tools.
• National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month: Spotlighting support systems, diagnostic advancements, and memory care resources.
• Movember & Men's Health Awareness: Focused on physical screening, preventative check-ups, and mental health advocacy.
• National Family Caregivers Month 
• Transgender Awareness Week – November 13–19, 2026 
• National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week: November 14–22, 2026 — A vital focus area for community action networks and regional outreach programs
• Transgender Day of Remembrance – November 20, 2026 
• International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day – November 21, 2026 

Thursday, October 29 | Craft & Mental Health with Bridgeway

Time: 6:00–7:30 PM Union Public Library, 1980 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ (Lower Level Classroom)

Join Bridgeway for an interactive Journaling for Mental Wellness workshop, free for Adults! Explore creativity, self-expression, and healthy coping through personalized journal pages using magazines, newspapers, and other materials. A Bridgeway behavioral health professional will be available to answer questions, share mental health resources, and connect participants with support and services. Information: 908-851-5450

Thursday–Friday, November 5–6 | NJEA Teachers’ Conference 

Atlantic City Convention Center 

Bridgeway will share a table with Woods System of Care at the NJEA conference to connect with educators and school partners from across New Jersey. 

Saturday, November 7 | Rise & Reign

3:00–8:00 p.m. Plainfield Performing Arts Center (PPAC), 724 Park Avenue, Plainfield, NJ

Bridgeway will table at this community event in Plainfield and share information about available services and resources. 

Monday, November 9 | Lunchtime Ministries

10:00–11:00 a.m. St. Matthew Trinity Lutheran Church 57 8th Street, Hoboken, NJ. Bridgeway will share program information and community resources with attendees. 

Monday, November 9 | Conference for Social Service Professionals 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. PSE&G, 4000 Hadley Rd., South Plainfield, NJ 

A networking and learning opportunity for social service professionals, including updates on energy assistance and energy-efficiency resources. 

Thursday, November 19 | Community Night 4:00–7:00 p.m. 

Beloved Elementary Academy, 508 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 

Bridgeway will table and connect families with behavioral health information, referrals, and community resources. 

NAMI Family Support Group 

First and third Wednesday of each month 7 pm 

A virtual peer support group for adult family members and friends of people with mental health conditions. Register by 11 am on the day of to receive the meeting link by noon. 

NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group 

Tuesdays 7:30 pm and Wednesdays 7 pm

A virtual peer support group for adults living with mental health conditions. Register by 11 am on the day of to receive the meeting link by noon. 

 
First Thursday of Every Month | Family & Connections Support Group (In Person) 6:30 pm

North Bergen Library, 13th Street and Kennedy Boulevard,

North Bergen, NJ. Registration required.

Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Peer-led support for families and individuals seeking connection and shared understanding.

Third Tuesday of Every Month | Family & Connections Support Group (Virtual) 7 pm

Virtual peer support for families and individuals.

Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Registration required.

Join us as we celebrate the opening of our 
Center for Integrated Outpatient Services. Details to come!

Have an event to share?

BUILD YOUR CAREEER.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT BRIDGEWAY

At Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, we make a difference; supporting the goals of those we serve and of our employees. Our team enjoys meaningful work in a collaborative, compassionate environment. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, exceptional training, and a culture that values growth, teamwork, and career development.

If you’re ready to put your passion to work and help others thrive, explore our open positions and apply today! 

View Career Opportunities

MINDFUL MOMENTS

"I can care for others while making space to care for myself."

Caring for someone else takes patience, compassion, and energy. Remember that your well-being matters, too. Taking a moment to rest, asking for support, or setting boundaries is not selfish. It’s part of caring.

NEED HELP?

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

To Access Bridgeway's Service Options

Call: 877-692-5664

Bridgeway’s Central Access Team is your trusted connection point to compassionate, personalized care. Whether you're seeking mental health or substance use support—for yourself or a loved one—our knowledgeable specialists are here to listen, guide, and connect you with the right services. 

With just one call, you can access a wide range of life-changing programs, including: 

• Mental Health & Substance Use Help 
• Community-Based Mental Health Care (PACT) 
• Homeless Outreach
• Medication Management
• Independent Living with Support 
• Partial Care Programs 
• Career Services & Educational Support 
• And More