Jewish Vocational Service of MetroWest New Jersey (JVS) held its annual Taste and Toast fundraising gala on June 21 at the Pleasantdale Chateau in West Orange to personally thank those who continuously perform at the highest level to carry out the JVS mission of “Helping People to Help Themselves.” This year, the event raised $350,000 to improve the life-enhancing services that the nonprofit, community-based health and human service organization provides to its diverse clientele.

Taste and Toast honorees and co-chairs included Edward Walsh (principal and managing director of Avison Young), Raymond Blau (JVS board member, chairman of Commercial Furniture Interiors), Sobel & Company LLC (JVS corporate partner), Nils Richardson (JVS community partner, CEO emeritus of ACCESS NJ), The United Nations Association at Seton Hall University (JVS Young Leaders), Rabbi Matthew Gewirtz of Congregation Bnai Jeshurun (JVS honorary chairman), Robert Francis (JVS board member, CEO of Planned Companies) and Eric Witmondt (JVS board member, CEO of Woodmont Properties).