Grand Opening of Brick House: A Pioneering Space for Adults with Mental Illness in Newark

On May 8, 2025, Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (Goodwill NYNJ) proudly announced the grand opening of Brick House, a new clubhouse dedicated to adults living with mental illness in Newark. This milestone event marks the first of its kind in the city and only the second in the state of New Jersey. The Clubhouse will officially open its doors with a public open house on May 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, located at 982 Broad Street, Newark, NJ.

The Brick House is designed to be a supportive, community-focused space that follows the globally recognized Clubhouse International model. This initiative is aimed at adults aged 18 and older who are navigating the challenges of mental illness. Here, members will find a nurturing environment where they can connect, develop new skills, and explore opportunities in employment and education. The clubhouse emphasizes recovery through engagement in meaningful activities that focus on wellness, skill enhancement, and readiness for employment—cultivated within a peer-supportive setting.

"A clubhouse is not just a physical space; it’s a community where individuals with mental health challenges are valued, respected, and given a sense of purpose," said Carline Dalton, Senior Vice President of Behavioral Health Services at Goodwill NYNJ. "Our commitment to supporting mental health initiatives is paramount, and we are excited to introduce this vital resource to the Newark community."

The development of Brick House has been made possible through generous funding from the Devils Youth Foundation and ARCHIMED's EURÊKA Foundation. These organizations share a commitment to strengthening local communities and believe in the power of inclusive spaces where individuals battling mental health issues can thrive. "By investing in initiatives like the Brick House, we are not just building facilities; we are fostering connections and nurturing the potential within our community," said Kate Whitman Annis, Executive Director of the Devils Youth Foundation.

The EURÊKA Foundation, which operates under ARCHIMED, echoes this sentiment by highlighting the significance of empowerment for those living with mental illness. "Everyone has the potential to contribute meaningfully to society. We are honored to support Goodwill NYNJ in its mission to help vulnerable individuals reintegrate into the workforce," said Virgine Faucheur, EURÊKA Foundation development director.

Denis Ribon, Chairman of ARCHIMED, added, "Our foundational investments aim not only at financial returns but also at creating a lasting positive impact." This philosophy reinforces the commitment to investing in the mental health community and aligns with the mission of improving lives through access to opportunities.

The open house on May 12 is expected to be a celebration of community spirit, featuring guided tours, opportunities to meet staff, and presentations from Goodwill leadership and other partner organizations. Attendees will gain insight into the various programs and services that Brick House will offer, fostering a deeper understanding of its impact on the community.

For those interested in becoming a member or partnering with Brick House, Director Fatizenebu Oyibo encourages inquiries. Individuals can reach out via phone at (973) 481-2300 Ext. 5120 or email [email protected].

In conclusion, Goodwill NYNJ's Brick House not only symbolizes an innovative approach to mental health support but also reflects the broader movement towards inclusivity and compassion within society. With the support of community leaders and organizations committed to mental health, Brick House is poised to become a vital resource in Newark, championing recovery and rebuilding lives through unity.

About Goodwill NYNJ

Goodwill Industries of Greater New York and Northern New Jersey, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment. With over a century of service, Goodwill NYNJ operates retail stores funded by donations, which support workforce development and job training programs. Its mission emphasizes empowerment and independence through work.

About the Devils Youth Foundation

The Devils Youth Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit striving to enrich the lives of New Jersey's youth via programs that support health, education, and community engagement through sports and entertainment.

About ARCHIMED

ARCHIMED is an investment firm focused on healthcare industries with a commitment to impact investing and supporting initiatives that promote health and wellness worldwide.