Urban League of Union County to Celebrate 82 Years of Impact With "An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed" Black Tie Masquerade Gala

Grammy-Nominated Recording Artist Eric Roberson to Headline Milestone Celebration Honoring Community Leaders and Corporate Partners

UNION CITY, N.J., Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Urban League of Union County will celebrate 82 years of service and community impact at its 82nd Anniversary Gala, An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed, on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Springfield, New Jersey.

Presented as an elegant Black Tie Masquerade Gala, the annual fundraiser will unite community leaders, corporate partners and supporters while raising critical funds for Urban League programs in housing, workforce development, reentry, youth development, health and wellness, violence prevention and community engagement.

The evening will recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership and service reflect the Urban League's mission.

2026 Honorees include:

• Leslie Anderson — Ella S. Teal President's Award
• Brielle Lewis — Whitney M. Young Jr. Young Professional Award
• KOBO — Corporate Partner Award
• Port Authority of New York and New Jersey — Corporate Partner Award
• Dr. Bibi Taylor — Community Partner Award
• Roy Maynard — Donna L. Alexander Urban League Award

Grammy-nominated R&B and soul artist Eric Roberson, a Rahway, New Jersey native, will headline the celebration with a special performance. Guests will also enjoy music from the Segdrick Marsh Band, with Cartayah Hawkins Reid serving as Master of Ceremonies, along with a silent auction benefiting Urban League programs.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Reworld are among the key sponsors supporting this year's celebration.

"For 82 years, the Urban League of Union County has empowered individuals and families through resources, advocacy, education and opportunities that help communities thrive," said Crystal Orr, President and CEO of the Urban League of Union County. "An Emerald Era: Legacy Revealed will honor that history while generating critical resources to continue this work for generations to come."

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. For additional information about attending or sponsorship opportunities, visit uloucnj.org.

About the Urban League of Union County
Founded in 1944, the Urban League of Union County is a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to helping African Americans and other underserved individuals achieve economic self-reliance, equity, empowerment and civil rights. The organization provides services in education, housing, health, employment, reentry and advocacy.

Contact:
Syreta Oglesby
201-658-3711
[email protected]

SOURCE Urban League of Union County