July 2026

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

IN THIS EDITION

• Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation Awards $500,000 Grant
• Capital Campaign Update
• Bridgeway Earns CARF Accreditation
• ARRIVE Together Partners Gather for Annual Meeting and Awards
• Mark T. Williams Receives the Sylvia Axelrod Award from NAMI
• Christine Backiel Receives NJPRA Supervisor Recognition Award 
• Now Accepting Referrals for Union County Housing Supports Program
• Save the Date - Chairperson's Dinner 2026
• Trustee Reflections
• In the Community
• Awareness and Key Dates
• Build Your Career
• Mindful Moments

Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation Awards $500,000 Grant to Bridgeway

From left: Bob Edes, Chief Operating Officer; Cory Storch, President & CEO; Mark T. Williams, Bridgeway Board Trustee; and Buddy Garfinkle, Executive Vice President & Chief Program Officer in front of Bridgeway's newly renovated Center for Integrated Outpatient Services at 567 Morris Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ.

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services has received an extraordinary unrestricted gift of $500,000 from the Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation, a longtime supporter of Bridgeway and behavioral health services in Eastern Union County. 

In January 2000, Elizabeth General Medical Center and St. Elizabeth Hospital joined together as equal partners to form Trinitas Hospital, now known as Trinitas Regional Medical Center. The Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation’s roots are connected to Elizabeth General Medical Center; before becoming a foundation, it operated as Jersey Healthcare Services, the parent organization of Elizabeth General Medical Center and its sister corporations. Since that transition, the Foundation has continued a legacy of support for community health organizations, including Bridgeway. 

The Foundation has announced the gift as part of its dissolution plan. In a letter dated June 24, 2026, David A. Fletcher, President of the Elizabethtown Healthcare Foundation, shared that the Foundation’s Board of Trustees voted to award Bridgeway the grant in recognition of its ongoing work and mission in the community. 

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN UPDATE

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services has received an extraordinary $500,000 unrestricted grant, bringing the $2 million “A Legacy of Impact - A Future of Recovery” Capital Campaign to more than three-quarters of its goal. 

Launched in September 2025, the campaign will continue through December 2027 to support the transformation of 567 Morris Avenue in Elizabeth, NJ into the Center for Integrated Outpatient Services.

We are deeply grateful to every foundation, organization and individual whose generosity is helping build a future of recovery. With your continued support, we can bring this campaign and this vital new center across the finish line.


Make your gift today!

Bridgeway Earns Three-Year CARF Accreditation

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services is proud to announce that it has officially earned a Three-Year Accreditation from CARF International, extending through June 30, 2029. 

This important recognition affirms Bridgeway’s commitment to quality, accountability, continuous improvement, and person-centered care. CARF accreditation is awarded to organizations that demonstrate strong service delivery, meaningful outcomes, and a commitment to improving the lives of the people they serve. 

In its official accreditation letter, CARF stated that this achievement reflects Bridgeway’s “dedication and commitment to improving the quality of the lives of the persons served.” CARF also noted that Bridgeway’s “services, personnel, and documentation clearly indicate an established pattern of conformance to standards.”

ARRIVE TOGETHER PARTNERS GATHER FOR ANNUAL MEETING AND AWARDS

We proudly joined law enforcement partners, ARRIVE Together officers and clinicians, law enforcement leadership, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, and representatives from the Attorney General’s Office for the Annual Somerset County ARRIVE Together Meeting and Awards Ceremony, held June 24 at Raritan Valley Community College.

The event brought together partners from across Somerset County to recognize the collaboration, teamwork, and commitment that make ARRIVE Together a meaningful resource for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises.

Through ARRIVE Together, trained mental health clinicians work alongside law enforcement to help de-escalate situations, provide compassionate support, and connect individuals to appropriate care and community resources.

The strong turnout reflected the shared commitment of Bridgeway, Somerset County law enforcement, county leadership, and statewide partners to improving crisis response and supporting people when they need help most.

Bridgeway is grateful to our ARRIVE Together clinicians, law enforcement partners, the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, the Attorney General’s Office, and all community leaders involved for their continued dedication to compassionate, coordinated behavioral health crisis response.

MARK T. WILLIAMS RECEIVES THE SYLVIA AXELROD AWARD FROM NAMI

Pictured with Mark (center) is Jennifer Hughes, CEO NAMI NJ and Marc Hurvitz, President Elect NAMI NJ.

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services congratulates Mark T. Williams, BSN, RN-BC, FMNLI, FCPP on receiving the Sylvia Axelrod Award from NAMI New Jersey. 

The award was presented during the 2026 NAMI NJ Annual Conference, held June 12 and 13 at the Crowne Plaza Princeton Conference Center. According to NAMI New Jersey, the Sylvia Axelrod Award recognizes advocates who have provided tireless, long-term service to those affected by mental illness. 

Mark was honored for his six years of service as Board President of NAMI NJ and for nearly two decades of dedication to AACT-NOW, NAMI NJ’s African American outreach program advisory committee. 

Mark is a devoted and passionate advocate for the rights of persons facing mental health, IDD/Autism challenges and their families. He serves as Chair of the Woods System of Care Board of Trustees and is a valued volunteer for Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services. Bridgeway is proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and grateful for Mark’s continued leadership, advocacy, and commitment to advancing compassionate behavioral health care in New Jersey.

CHRISTINE BACKIEL RECEIVES NJPRA SUPERVISOR RECOGNITION AWARD

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services congratulates Christine Backiel, LPC, Program Director, on receiving the New Jersey Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association’s Recognition Award for Dedication and Excellence in Psychiatric Rehabilitation in the Supervisor category.

The award honors leaders who exemplify the core principles of psychiatric rehabilitation by fostering hope, empowerment and person-centered care.

Christine was recognized for her commitment to seeing each individual beyond a diagnosis and focusing instead on their strengths, goals and potential. Her nomination also highlighted her collaborative leadership style and dedication to creating an environment where staff feel supported, valued and empowered to contribute their talents to program development and recovery-oriented services.

As Director of Crisis Intervention and Career Services, Christine works to ensure that Bridgeway’s programs are not only clinically effective, but also welcoming, compassionate and grounded in dignity.

“I am honored to receive this NJPRA Recognition Award,” Christine shared. “This recognition reflects the dedication, compassion and commitment of the teams I have the privilege to supervise, as well as the support of colleagues, mentors and leadership throughout my career. Most importantly, I am inspired by the individuals we serve each day, whose resilience, growth and successes remind us why the work we do matters.”

Congratulations to Christine on this well-deserved recognition and her continued commitment to advancing person-centered psychiatric rehabilitation at Bridgeway.

BRIDGEWAY IS ACCEPTING REFERRALS FOR UNION COUNTY HOUSING SUPPORTS PROGRAM

SAVE THE DATE - BRIDGEWAY'S CHAIRPERSON'S DINNER 2026

TRUSTEE REFLECTIONS

Honoring National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: A Commitment to Equity and Access

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

Bridgeway Board Trustee

This July, we observe National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the unique mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities and to reaffirm our commitment to accessible, equitable, and culturally responsive care for all.

Founded in 2008 in honor of mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell, this observance reminds us that while mental health conditions affect nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults, the path to care is often more difficult for individuals from minority communities.

Barriers such as cultural stigma, language challenges, discrimination within healthcare settings, and lack of culturally informed services can prevent individuals from seeking, or receiving, the support they need.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Grand Artistry Live

Grand Artistry Live brought the community together for a day of dance, creativity, and connection. Bridgeway was proud to participate alongside local organizations, sharing behavioral health resources and engaging with community members while celebrating the arts, culture, and wellness. 

Bridgeway participates in Coffee & Connections

Coffee & Connections brought together behavioral health professionals and community partners for a morning of networking, collaboration, and resource sharing. Bridgeway was proud to connect with local organizations, strengthen partnerships, and explore new opportunities to support the mental health needs of our community.

Bridgeway and Summit Police Partner to Support Recovery

Bridgeway is proud to partner with the Summit Police Department through the Addiction Coordination Treatment (ACT) initiative. The program connects individuals experiencing substance use disorders, mental health challenges, or homelessness with the care and resources they need to begin recovery.

Working together, Bridgeway and Summit Police provide compassionate outreach, follow-up after a crisis, and connections to treatment and community services. Led by Sergeant Kathleen Maggiulli, George Vessels, and Diana Vazquez, the partnership helps individuals find lasting support while reducing the need for emergency services.

Bridgeway and the Summit Police Department are building connections, providing hope, and changing lives.

Bridgeway Celebrates Haitian Culture and Supports Growing Families

Catarina Doria, Bridgeway's Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, represented us at a community event celebrating Haitian culture while supporting expectant parents and families. Attendees learned about pregnancy and childbirth traditions, connected with healthcare professionals, doulas, and community organizations, and explored local resources that support healthy pregnancies and strong families.

The event highlighted the importance of education, cultural connection, and access to care, helping families find the support they need every step of the way.

Bridgeway and Guttenberg Partner for Men's Wellness Celebration

Bridgeway partnered with the Guttenberg Human Services Department to host the Men's Wellness Celebration, bringing the community together to promote men's mental health and overall well-being.

The event featured a presentation by Bridgeway Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurse Kwaku Asafu-Adjaye, who shared practical insights on men's mental health and answered questions from attendees. By encouraging open conversations and reducing stigma, the event helped connect men with the information and support they need to prioritize their mental wellness.

AWARENESS & KEY DATES

August is National Wellness & Overdose Awareness Month 

Saturday, August 1 | Unearth Your Health Resource Fair 9 am - 2 pm

Priscilla Gardner Main Library, Jersey City, NJ. Stop by the Bridgeway table. 

Tuesday, August 4 | Neighborhood Health National Health Center Week 10 am - 3 pm. 1700 Myrtle Avenue, Plainfield, NJ. Will you be there too?

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Tuesday, August 4 | National Night Out

Join Bridgeway at National Night Out celebrations across Hudson, Somerset and Union counties in NJ. These free, public events bring residents, law enforcement officers, first responders and community organizations together to strengthen relationships, share resources and celebrate safer, more connected communities.

HUDSON COUNTY
Bridgeway’s Hudson ARRIVE Together Follow-Up Model Team will participate in the following celebrations:

Bayonne National Night Out

4–7 pm | DiDomenico–16th Street Park

Harrison National Night Out

6–10 pm | Library Park, 415 Harrison Avenue

Hoboken National Night Out

5–9 pm | Church Square Park, Fifth and Garden streets

Jersey City National Night Out

6:30–9:30 pm

Kearny National Night Out

6–8 pm | Veterans Memorial Field, 300 Belgrove Drive

North Bergen National Night Out

6:30–9:30 pm | 88th Street Park

SOMERSET COUNTY

Bridgeway’s Somerset ARRIVE Together Co-Response Team will participate in the following celebrations:

Branchburg National Night Out

6–9 pm | White Oak Park, 235 Baird Road

Franklin Township National Night Out

6–8:30 pm | Franklin Township Municipal Complex, 475 DeMott Lane, Somerset

Hillsborough National Night Out

5:30–8 pm | Mountain View Park, 141 Mountain View Road

North Plainfield National Night Out

6–9 pm | In front of Borough Hall, 515 Watchung Avenue

Warren National Night Out

5:30–8 pm | Warren Town Hall, 46 Mountain Boulevard

UNION COUNTY

Union County National Night Out for Everyone

4:30–8 pm | UCNJ Union College of Union County, Cranford Campus, 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford

Elizabeth National Night Out

6–8 pm | Kellogg Park, 1145 Fanny Street, Elizabeth

Roselle Park National Night Out

6–8 pm | Wolf Field, 180 West Webster Avenue, Roselle Park

Summit National Night Out

6–8:30 pm | Soldiers Memorial Field, 5 Myrtle Avenue, Summit

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Wednesday, August 5 | Summer Shopping & Mental Health 9:30 am - 4 pm 110 Meadowlands Parkway Secaucus, NJ. Join us there. 

August 2-8, 2026 is National Health Center Week - Visit our Bridgeway table at the following two events.


Friday, August 7 | Neighborhood Health's National Health Center Week Celebration 10 am-3 pm 184 First Street, Elizabeth 
You are invited to enjoy a free day of family fun, health resources, and community celebration.

Saturday, August 8 | National Health Center Week Event 9 am - 2 pm 

5301 Broadway West New York, NJ.

Monday, August 10 | GROVE Plaza Farmers Market 3-7pm 

Grove Path, Jersey City. Bridgeway will be on-site to engage with the community.

Wednesday, August 12 | International Youth Day 

Celebrating the potential, resilience, and contributions of young people around the world. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting youth through access to mental health services, education, and resources that empower them to thrive and build healthy futures. 

Thursday, August 13 | Craft & Mental Health Series 11:30-12:30 pm 

Registration is required! Skyway Family Success Center 35 Journal Square Plaza Suite#501, Jersey City, NJ. Explore your creativity with us.

Friday, August 14 | 5th Annual International Overdose Awareness Day Community Resource Fair 10:30- 4:00pm at Lincoln Park West Side Ave Entrance, Jersey City. Join us to honor those lost to overdose, support individuals in recovery, and break the stigma surrounding substance use disorder.

NAMI Family Support Group 

First and third Wednesday of each month | 7:00 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 | 7:00 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. 

Wednesday, August 19 | Summer Shopping & Mental Health 9 am - 4pm 

312 Pacific Ave Jersey City, NJ. Stop by the Bridgeway table. 

Sunday, August 30 | 10:00 am–3:00 pm 

4th Annual NAMI NJ Multicultural Summer Celebration 

Thompson Park, Grove 4AB, Monroe Township 

Join NAMI New Jersey for a fun-filled day in the park featuring games, music, raffles, activities, a complimentary lunch, and wonderful company. Register today.  Complimentary tickets are available for those in need. 

Monday, August 31 | International Overdose Awareness Day 

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global campaign dedicated to remembering those lost to overdose, supporting individuals and families affected by substance use, and raising awareness that overdose is preventable. Together, we can reduce stigma, promote education, and connect our communities with compassionate, life-saving resources and treatment. 

Friday, September 18 | 10:00 am–2:00 pm 

6th Annual Community Resource Day, 23 Branford Place, Newark, NJ 

Greater Essex Counseling Services will host a day of free community resources, health information, screenings, educational opportunities, employment connections, and more. Bridgeway will be represented by Daria Smith, Team Lead for RIST 5, serving Essex and Hudson counties. 


First Thursday of Every Month | Family & Connections Support Group (In Person)

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

6:30 pm at North Bergen Library, 13th Street and Kennedy Boulevard,

North Bergen, NJ. Registration required.

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

Virtual peer support for families and individuals.

7:00 pm. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Registration required.

Save the Date: October 22 | Chairperson’s Dinner

Grand Marquis, 1550 Route 9 South, Old Bridge, NJ 6 - 10 pm

Mark your calendar for one of Bridgeway’s biggest nights of the year! The 2026 Chairperson’s Dinner will be an evening of fun, music, photos, raffles, auction items, and plenty of reasons to celebrate. Guests will enjoy a festive night out while helping raise funds for Bridgeway’s new Center for Integrated Outpatient Services in Elizabeth.

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

"My story deserves to be heard, and my mental health deserves care."

Healing begins when we feel seen, respected, and supported. Every person deserves compassionate mental health care that honors their unique identity, experiences, and journey.

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