North Jersey Friendship House (NJFH), a leading nonprofit supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health needs, recently celebrated the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of its new headquarters at 496 Kinderkamack Road in the Borough of Oradell.
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.
Distinguished 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,” Dr. D’Auria shared in her closing remarks.
The ribbon was officially cut by Dermot, a proud member of the NJFH community, marking the
start of a new chapter in the organization’s mission to Build Skills for Productive Lives.
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.
Positive energy and heartfelt words echoed throughout the event, reflecting NJFH’s powerful
impact and the bright future ahead.
To learn more about North Jersey Friendship House and its services, visit www.njfriendshiphouse.org.
Founded in 1964, NJFH has built a reputation for providing personalized support services, workforce training, and mental health resources that empower individuals to live more independently and with dignity. With programs ranging from vocational job placements to community inclusion initiatives, the nonprofit serves hundreds of people across Northern New Jersey.