BE A CHANGEMAKER
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Join Us For Our Annual Changemakers Cocktail Gala
Celebrating the spirit of our city—resilient, united, and always rising.
Why the theme “Newark Rising“?
At the Ironbound Community Corporation, we choose to celebrate “Newark Rising” because it embodies the relentless spirit, resilience, and power of our city’s people. Despite decades of environmental injustice, disinvestment and inequality, Newarkers — in the Ironbound and throughout every neighborhood — continue to organize, thrive, and lead with unwavering determination.
“Rising” is more than just growth or development; it’s a movement toward equitable, just, and inclusive progress. It’s about cleaner air and water, environmental justice, affordable housing, innovative public safety, economic empowerment initiatives such as guaranteed income pilots, and opportunities that lift everyone — leaving no one behind. Newark is rising because its community is rising — fighting for a future where all voices are heard, and all lives matter.
This moment in Newark’s story is driven by our people — especially our youth — who are at the forefront of change. From young leaders participating in environmental initiatives to students voting through groundbreaking laws such as Vote16, Newark’s young people are shaping the future with pride, purpose, and power.
“Newark Rising” is a rallying cry — a celebration of our city’s strength, culture, and unbreakable spirit. It’s a proud affirmation that Newark’s power lies in its community. We rise together, as one, committed to building a Newark that is just, vibrant, and full of hope for generations to come.
Because Newark is rising — and we are the ones making it happen.
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2025 Honorees
EarthJustice
United Way of Greater Newark
Leonard S. Thomas
Nancy Zak and Arnold Cohen
2025 Honorary Committee
Vince Baglivo
Ironbound Business Improvement District
Brendan Da Silva
The Da Silva Team
Michelle Garcia
RWJ Barnabas Health
Hilda Mera
S&A Auto Center & ICC Board Member
Jacqueline Mercado-Quiles
Deputy Mayor, Community Engagement
Johanna Moroch
Former Graphic Designer, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and ICC Board member
David Singer
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice
VIEW 2025 DIGITAL JOURNAL
Thank You To Our Sponors
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