A beautiful new six-bedroom home expands residential opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Bergen County.
Emerson, NJ – October 27, 2026 – New Concepts for Living (NCFL) proudly celebrated the grand opening of its newest community residence in Emerson, New Jersey, marking an exciting milestone as the organization’s 23rd residential home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Under beautiful autumn skies, families, community members, local officials, and NCFL supporters gathered to celebrate the occasion, tour the new residence, and learn more about the organization’s comprehensive programs and services.
The celebration featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with remarks from NCFL CEO Steve Setteducati, Emerson Mayor Danielle DiPaola, New Jersey State Senator Holly Schepisi, Bergen County Commissioners Germaine Ortiz and Mary Amoroso, NCFL Board Member and Guardian Lisa Babin, and NCFL Guardian Barbara Michelson.
A New Home, New Opportunities
The beautiful, state-of-the-art six-bedroom residence is designed to provide adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where they can build independence, develop meaningful relationships, and enjoy fulfilling lives as active members of their community.
The opening also marks NCFL’s second residential location in Emerson, joining the organization’s existing Emerson Cottages, located just a few blocks away.
During his remarks, NCFL CEO Steve Setteducati emphasized the growing need for quality residential options and the importance of providing families with confidence in their loved ones’ futures.
“Far too many families spend years searching, waiting, and worrying about finding a safe, supportive home for their loved one, particularly for when they are no longer able to provide the care themselves,” said Setteducati. “At New Concepts for Living, our mission is to help eliminate that uncertainty.”
He continued by sharing NCFL’s commitment to creating beautiful homes where individuals receive exceptional care, dignity, respect, and opportunities to thrive.
A Community That Welcomes Inclusion
Emerson Mayor Danielle DiPaola presented NCFL with an official proclamation recognizing the grand opening and the organization’s continued commitment to enhancing the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The proclamation celebrated the shared commitment between NCFL and the Borough of Emerson to fostering an inclusive community where individuals of all abilities can thrive.
State Senator Holly Schepisi also spoke passionately about the critical need for supportive residential housing, sharing a personal connection to the challenges faced by individuals with special needs and their families.
She expressed gratitude to NCFL, its supporters, and the dedicated staff who make these homes possible, recognizing the compassion and commitment required to provide individuals with the care and opportunities they deserve.
The Meaning of Home: A Family’s Perspective
Among the most meaningful moments of the celebration were remarks from two NCFL guardians who shared their personal perspectives on the importance of residential opportunities.
NCFL Board Member Lisa Babin, a longtime Emerson resident and parent of a son who attends NCFL’s Achievement Center, expressed her pride in welcoming another NCFL residence to her hometown.
“Our homes are about so much more than providing a place to live,” said Babin. “They’re about creating a safe, welcoming environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can feel at home, build independence, develop relationships, enjoy a fulfilling life, and most importantly, become an integral part of their community.”
Barbara Michelson, whose daughter Jessica resides in an NCFL community residence in Wyckoff, shared her family’s emotional journey of finding the right home for their daughter.
Michelson described how one of the most difficult decisions her family ever faced ultimately became one of the best, thanks to the care, guidance, and support they received from NCFL.
Today, Jessica enjoys a fulfilling and independent life, attending NCFL’s Achievement Center during the week and spending weekends participating in activities with her housemates.
“You can begin to rest your mind and soul knowing that your child is loved,” Michelson shared, reflecting on the peace of mind her family has found through NCFL.
Opening Our Doors to the Community
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests enjoyed guided tours of the beautifully designed residence, offering a firsthand look at the comfortable living spaces and thoughtful features that will soon make this house a home for its new residents.
NCFL Intake Manager Deena King also hosted informational sessions, providing an overview of NCFL’s residential services, day programs, and admissions process while answering questions from families and community members. CEO Steve Setteducati joined the sessions to offer additional insight and address questions.
Guests also enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace, generously provided by NCFL partner Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy.
Continuing to Build Homes and Brighter Futures
The opening of NCFL’s 23rd community residence represents more than another milestone in the organization’s growth. It reflects an ongoing commitment to meeting the increasing demand for quality residential services and creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and a true sense of belonging.
NCFL extends its sincere gratitude to the Borough of Emerson, participating officials, families, guardians, community partners, and everyone who joined in celebrating this special occasion.
