Greater Essex Counseling Services, LLC Celebrates Recovery and Growth at 4th Annual Alumni Event

Newark, NJ – June 11, 2025 — In a heartfelt and inspiring evening, Greater Essex Counseling Services, LLC proudly hosted its 4th Annual Alumni Celebration at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, honoring a new class of individuals who have completed the company’s substance use recovery programs and are now living clean, purpose-driven lives.

The event celebrated clients who have achieved sobriety from alcohol and drugs through the dedicated support and services provided by Greater Essex. Alumni shared emotional testimonies, crediting the organization with helping them reclaim their lives. Many expressed that the program not only saved them from addiction but transformed them into contributing members of society.

“This program gave me my life back,” said Wade Brown. “Today, I have a job, a home, and a future — and I owe it to Greater Essex.”

The celebration drew community leaders, sponsors, and elected officials, including Councilman-at-Large Luis A. Quintana (Newark), Councilman-at-Large Weldon M. Montague, III (Orange), Eileen Fishman (Director Essex County Division of Community Health Service) and Divad Sanders (Program Director, Newark Community Street Team, Overdose Response Team & Harm Reduction Center). Both officials applauded the organization’s efforts and expressed their ongoing support for substance abuse recovery and community wellness initiatives.

The event was made possible by the generosity of local business sponsors, several of whom also spoke, emphasizing the importance of investing in community-focused services and second chances.

Co-owners Chris Vadas and Katy Linton delivered moving remarks about the growth and impact of Greater Essex Counseling Services.

“We are deeply proud of the work our team is doing,” said Linton. “Helping people change their lives is not just our mission — it’s our passion.”

Chris Vadas added, “I’ve been involved in many businesses in my life, but this is different. This is my calling. Watching people transform and begin to thrive again — there’s nothing more rewarding.”

With growing demand for its services, Greater Essex Counseling Services, LLC continues to expand its footprint across New Jersey, offering individualized counseling, outpatient treatment, and group therapy for those struggling with substance use.

Last night’s alumni event was not just a celebration of sobriety — it was a powerful reminder of what recovery, community, and compassion can achieve.