A Night of Celebration and Commitment

The Montclair Inn hosted a heartwarming and spirited cocktail fundraiser on November 8th, bringing together community leaders, supporters, and sponsors to celebrate a decade of dedicated leadership by Executive Director Joy Kay and to reaffirm a shared commitment to safe, affordable housing for seniors.

Held in honor of Kay’s 10th anniversary of service to the Inn, the evening was a vibrant reflection of Joy’s impact and the Inn’s mission. Guests gathered to toast her legacy and to raise vital funds that will help ensure older adults in Montclair continue to thrive in a welcoming, community-centered environment.

The event drew significant regional support with a mix of attendees, including Montclair Mayor Dr. Renee Baskerville, Town Council members Rahum N. Williams and Susan Shin Andersen, and Livingston Town Council member Ketan Bhuptani. Their presence underscored the importance of the Montclair Inn’s work and the broad support it enjoys across Essex County.

An event sponsor Allaire Health services, is a longtime advocate for senior wellness whose partnership reflects a shared vision for holistic, dignified care.

Guests also enjoyed a sweet touch from another beloved sponsor: Little Daisy Bake Shop of Montclair, NJ, who generously provided an array of cupcakes and desserts that added warmth and delight to the celebration.

Joy Kay, who has led the Montclair Inn since 2015, was honored for her tireless advocacy, compassionate leadership, and unwavering belief in the power of community. Under her guidance, the Inn has expanded its reach, deepened its programming, and remained a vital lifeline for seniors seeking stability.

“Joy’s leadership has been transformative,” said one longtime supporter. “She’s not just running a residence, she’s cultivating a home, a family, and a future for every person who walks through those doors.”

The fundraiser, hosted at the Livingston home of Montclair Inn Board Member Kiran Mulgund and her husband Rishi Mulgund, served not only as a celebration, but as a call to action. With rising housing costs and growing needs among older adults, the Montclair Inn continues to rely on community support to sustain its mission. Funds raised during the event will go directly toward resident services, building improvements, and outreach efforts to ensure no senior is left behind.

As the evening came to a close, guests left inspired by Joy Kay’s legacy, by the Inn’s vision, and by the collective power of a community that shows up, gives generously, and believes in the dignity of every neighbor.

We invite you to join the Montclair Inn's commitment to safe and affordable senior living. If you were unable to attend the fundraiser or wish to further support the Inn's vital programming, please consider making a secure online donation today at MontclairInn.org. Your contribution directly helps ensure that Montclair’s seniors have a stable, welcoming place to call home.
For more information about the Montclair Inn or to make a donation, visit MontclairInn.org.

Want To Do More?
We are hiring a head chef if you are interested in applying for this position, joining our Board or in volunteer opportunities for you, your child or your organization contact us at MontclairInn@gmail.com

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About Montclair Inn:
Montclair Shared Housing Association (MSHA), a proud 501c3 nonprofit, passionately operates an affordable residence for seniors at The Montclair Inn. We offer a unique and welcoming option for communal living, empowering residents to thrive independently for as long as they are able. For more information, please visit MontclairInn.org.