Sunrise Clinical Services Launches Veterans Initiative for Mental Health and Reintegration

IRVINGTON, NEW JERSEY — May 2026 — At a time when veterans across the United States continue to face growing challenges related to mental health, housing instability, unemployment, and the long-term effects of trauma, Sunrise Clinical Services will officially launch a new Veterans Program dedicated to providing coordinated clinical care and community-based support for former service members and their families.

The event will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Sunrise Clinical Services, located at 22 Ball Street, Irvington, New Jersey, and is expected to bring together elected officials, healthcare executives, clergy, behavioral health professionals, nonprofit organizations, and veterans advocates from throughout the region.

The initiative is being led by Mohammed Naeem, founder and sponsor of the program, alongside Tuseef Rathore, CEO of Sunrise Clinical Services. Organizers say the effort was developed in response to increasing concerns surrounding untreated trauma, substance use disorders, barriers to housing, and the lack of coordinated support systems available to many veterans transitioning back into civilian life.

Opening the event in prayer will be Reverend Raúl Ruiz, president of the New Jersey Coalition of Latino Pastors and Ministers, one of the state’s leading faith-based leadership organizations. The program will also feature remarks from Irvington Mayor Tony Vauss, along with presentations from clinical and community leaders working directly in behavioral health and social services.

Featured participants and speakers include:

• Bernice Taylor, Clinical Director at Sunrise Clinical Services, who will speak on behavioral health services and clinical support available to veterans and their families.

• Nia Marshall, Director of Social Work at Sunrise Clinical Services, presenting on care coordination, social support services, and pathways to long-term wellness and stability.

• Lamar Nelson, Executive Director of Twin Rivers Recovery and C-Line Community Outreach Services, will discuss recovery-centered services, community-based support systems, and access to treatment for veterans navigating mental health and substance use challenges.

• Gerald Whitaker, Principal & CEO of Bridge Builders Newark, discussing employment opportunities, workforce development, and economic pathways designed to support veterans transitioning into civilian careers.

• William Hunter, Director of Partnerships & Admissions at Anvil Forge Impact, presenting housing opportunities and long-term stability initiatives focused on helping veterans secure sustainable and supportive living environments.

• Jonathan Perez, retired veteran and owner of Senior Helpers North Hudson, sharing his personal testimony and lived experience as a veteran, along with perspectives on service, transition, and community support.

Organizers describe the initiative as a practical and community-driven response to the growing needs of veterans, focused on treatment, opportunity, stability, and dignity.

“Supporting veterans requires more than public recognition,” organizers said ahead of the event. “It requires access to care, employment pathways, housing support, and communities willing to invest in long-term healing and reintegration.”

The launch comes amid continued national discussions surrounding veterans’ mental health, suicide prevention, addiction recovery, and access to healthcare services. Community leaders involved in the initiative say the Irvington program seeks to create a local model that brings together clinical care, social services, workforce development, housing support, and faith-based engagement under one coordinated effort.

Media outlets, healthcare organizations, elected officials, veterans groups, and community stakeholders are expected to attend.

Event Information

Veterans Program Launch
Tuesday, May 26, 2026
10:30 AM
Sunrise Clinical Services
22 Ball Street
Irvington, New Jersey

Press Contact

Rita Durán
Director of Communications
Sunrise Group of Companies
mduran@sunrisegoc.com