NJCDC’s 11th Annual Casino Night Raises Funds for Paterson Youth

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On Friday, March 27th, NJCDC hosted its 11th Annual Casino Night at The Brownstone — an evening filled with energy, generosity, and a shared commitment to Paterson’s young people. Casino Night supports NJCDC’s college readiness programs, helping to fund scholarships, campus tours — including the organization’s signature Ivy League Tour— college fairs, and other critical resources that open doors for local students.

Guests gathered for a lively night of food, music, and casino games — all in service of one unifying purpose: ensuring Paterson’s students have access to the opportunities they deserve. The evening brought together community leaders, partners, and supporters who continue to invest in the city’s future.

Following a spirited cocktail hour, guests filled the gaming tables, trying their luck at blackjack, craps, and roulette. They enjoyed dinner and a dessert buffet, captured memories at the photo booth, and danced to music that kept the room buzzing throughout the night.

As the evening progressed, guests exchanged their chip winnings for raffle tickets, building anticipation ahead of the prize drawings. While only some took home prizes, every attendee played a role in supporting something far greater.

In his remarks, NJCDC Founder and CEO Bob Guarasci reflected on the collective impact of the evening: over ten years of Casino Nights, he said, the event has raised nearly half a million dollars for Paterson students — a milestone that speaks to the consistency and generosity of the community behind the event. He also emphasized how those funds translate directly into opportunity, supporting everything from scholarships to immersive college experiences.

In just a few days, NJCDC will bring approximately 50 students on its annual Ivy League Tour, visiting campuses including Harvard, Yale, and MIT. At Harvard, students will meet fellow Paterson natives who now attend on full scholarship — a compelling example of what’s possible. At MIT, the group hopes to meet with university president Dr. Sally Kornbluth, herself a Patersonian, reinforcing the message at the heart of the evening: that Paterson students belong in every space where opportunity exists.

NJCDC’s college readiness programs continue to yield meaningful results, with students earning acceptances to a wide range of colleges and universities year after year. These outcomes reflect not only the determination of NJCDC’s young people, but also the collective investment of a community that believes in them.

A heartfelt thank-you to all of our Casino Night sponsors and raffle prize donors — and to the NJCDC staff who brought the evening to life!

Raffle Prize Donors: 

The Accounting Doctor

Alstede Farms

Applebee’s

BulbHead

David's Custom Cakes

Ghost Hawk Brewing Co.

Mud Clay Studio

NY Jets

NY Mets

NY Rangers

NY Red Bulls

Rose Valdez

Rispoli's Bakery (Hawthorne)

Shannon Rose via Doherty Enterprises

Turning Point Restaurants

The Yard