The Urban League of Essex County is set to host its highly anticipated Annual Gala, an evening dedicated to celebrating leadership, community impact, and progress under the inspiring theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures.” The event will bring together civic leaders, corporate partners, and advocates for equality to honor those who have made significant contributions to advancing opportunity and equity across North Jersey.
Each year, the gala serves as both a celebration and a call to action, recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the Urban League’s mission of economic empowerment, education, and social justice. This year’s distinguished honorees include Robert Clark, Father Ed Leahy, United Airlines, and the New Jersey Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). Each honoree represents a unique pillar of leadership — from community development and education to corporate responsibility and neighborhood revitalization.
The evening will feature remarks from Urban League leaders highlighting the organization’s continued work to create pathways for underserved communities throughout Essex County. From workforce development programs to youth education initiatives, the League’s efforts focus on bridging economic divides and ensuring that residents have access to the tools and opportunities needed to build brighter futures.
Attendees can expect an evening of reflection and celebration, with a formal dinner, live entertainment, and presentations honoring the 2025 award recipients. The event also serves as one of the League’s most important fundraisers of the year, helping to support its growing portfolio of community programs. Proceeds from the gala directly fund local initiatives in housing, education, job training, and small business support — programs that have become essential resources for families across Essex County and beyond.
The Urban League of Essex County has been a driving force in Newark and the surrounding region for decades, working to break systemic barriers and empower residents to achieve economic stability and independence. Its programs not only provide immediate assistance but also cultivate long-term change by equipping individuals with the skills, education, and access needed to succeed.
This year’s theme, “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures,” reflects both the challenges that remain and the progress made through collaboration and persistence. The Urban League’s commitment to inclusivity and opportunity continues to strengthen communities across North Jersey, making its annual gala a powerful reminder of the collective impact that can be achieved when public, private, and nonprofit sectors come together for a shared purpose.
For more information on attending or supporting this year’s event, visit Explore North Jersey. The Urban League’s Annual Gala remains one of the region’s most inspiring gatherings — a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience, unity, and progress that defines Essex County and its people.
