United Way of Morris County Events
Past Events

7th Annual Commercial Real Estate
Network Luncheon
Friday, April 7, 2006

They didn't just have lunch at the Commercial Real Estate Network Luncheon; the attendees were actually installing security systems at a child care center, replacing a run-down heating system at a residential home for the mentally ill, and upgrading bathrooms at a family shelter!

At its annual fundraising luncheon on April 7, 2006 United Way of Morris County's Commercial Real Estate Network grossed a record $195,300 to fund critical capital improvements at health and human services agencies in Morris County.

The event at the North Maple Inn at Basking Ridge attracted over 380 commercial real estate and related industry representatives.  The success of the luncheon ensures funding for much-needed repairs and renovations at a number of United Way of Morris County Member Agencies, including Community Hope in Parsippany and Mt. Olive Child Care Center in Mt.Olive.

The Commercial Real Estate Network was started in 2000 as an initiative between United Way of Morris County and real estate professionals in the area.

Gil Medina, Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield, was the Event Moderator, and noted in his remarks, "Most of us in the room today are in the business of building, and we can appreciate the cost of capital projects.  The Commercial Real Estate Network is a very effective way for all of us to provide some tangible help to those who can really use it."

Kevin Rigby, Vice President at Novartis, was the Keynote Speaker for the event.  He reviewed the Novartis commitment to Morris County, citing the quality of employees, the supportive local environment, and the excellent access to transportation as key reasons to stay in New Jersey.

He also thanked all the sponsors of the event, noting that their generosity would allow agencies to continue their work without the worry of budgeting for repairs and renovations.

An event highlight was the presentation of the United Way Commercial Real Estate Impact Award, which recognizes the property development project or transaction that has had the most positive impact in the Morris County community in 2005.  The finalists included the Dendreon lease in Cedar Knolls, NJ and the Time Inc. transaction in Parsippany, NJ.

This year's award winner was Atlantic Health System for the 210,000 square foot lease at 475 South Street, Morristown.  Joining Atlantic Health System in the lease transaction was CB Richard Ellis, Inc., Welsh Chester Galiney Matone, Inc., National Business Parks, Inc., Timber Architecture Office, Centralpack Engineering Corporation and Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP.

Also included at the luncheon were honorary guests from major Morris County corporations, including  Cathy Callagee, UPS, Coert Davis, Intel, and Thomas Gortych, Wyeth.