Adler Aphasia Center's Gala Celebrates Aphasia Awareness Month This June

Adler Aphasia Center To Host Annual Gala for Awareness

In recognition of Aphasia Awareness Month, the Adler Aphasia Center is set to hold its much-anticipated annual gala on June 4th, 2025, at Seasons in Washington Township, New Jersey. This prestigious event aims to shine a light on the importance of understanding aphasia, a language disorder that affects over 2 million people across the United States. According to the National Institutes of Health, aphasia can impact an individual's ability to communicate, affecting speech, understanding, reading, and writing, often resulting from a stroke.

The gala will honor the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, a long-time partner that has played an integral role in educating medical students and residents about this impactful disorder. Among those being recognized will be Norma Wellington Koster and Bernard Koster, Esq., notable supporters who have been involved with the Adler Aphasia Center since its inception, raising more than $3 million through their efforts. Notably, the event will also celebrate Nicole Salzano, a passionate advocate and volunteer at the Center since 2018.

Emceeing this year’s event is the esteemed Emmy-winning anchor Steve Adubato, Ph.D. Steve hosts the well-regarded show One on One with Steve Adubato, which showcases compelling real-life stories along with discussions featuring political and industry leaders, educational innovators, and artists. His involvement will undoubtedly enhance the gala experience, as guests gather to support a vital cause.

Aphasia Awareness Month, observed every June, aims to educate the public about the challenges faced by those with aphasia and to advocate for accessible resources and support for their families. This month serves as a reminder of the resilience required by individuals living with such disorders, as well as the empathy that is crucial for community understanding.

The Adler Aphasia Center has been a beacon of hope since 2003, aiming to raise awareness and provide critical support for those affected by aphasia. They focus on creating an environment of care and education that nurtures connection and understanding among members, caregivers, and volunteers. The Center anticipates reaching over 10,000 individuals across 17 of New Jersey's counties and plans to offer dedicated training for more than 500 healthcare students and professionals in 2025.

Naomi Gewirtz, MSW, the Center’s President and CEO, expressed the pressing need for financial support from the community, stating, "It's never been more critical for Adler to obtain financial assistance. This support enables us to help our members reclaim a sense of communication and connection post-aphasia, even when financial resources are limited. We are eager to celebrate the remarkable contributions our honorees have made to the community."

Special recognition goes to the numerous community partners and sponsors, including the Holy Name Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing and Inserra, Inc., among others. Their generosity is vital in facilitating the mission of the Adler Aphasia Center, supporting the ongoing work of helping individuals regain their voices.

In a world where communication is key, the Adler Aphasia Center and the upcoming gala represent a significant step toward acknowledging and improving the lives of those affected by aphasia. Attending the gala is an opportunity to stand in solidarity with this community while contributing to a meaningful cause that seeks to advocate for and uplift those struggling with communication challenges.

Mark your calendars for June 4th and join us in supporting this vital cause. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals living with aphasia and contribute to a greater understanding of this impactful disorder.