At this year’s Our Voice Gala, we were proud to present the Legacy Leadership Award to the Roman who were some of the Apostles House first employees.  Recipient, Aliya Roman, is a woman whose story embodies the very mission of The Apostles’ House.

Aliyah revealed that her connection to The Apostles’ House began not as a staff member, but as a shelter resident. As a teenager, she experienced firsthand the challenges that so many of our families face. Yet even then, she was determined to contribute—working as a teen aide under the guidance of Esther Roman, one of the very first employees of The Apostles’ House.

In a beautiful full-circle moment, Aliya later became part of the Roman family, marrying Esther’s son. Today, she continues that legacy of service as the Director of Ryan White program for the City Newark Department of Health & Wellness, where she leads with the same compassion, strength, and commitment that once carried her through our doors.

Aliyah’s remarks at the Gala left a lasting impression. She reminded us all that the children in our shelters must remain at the heart of the Apostles’ House mission. As she shared, she was once one of those children—proof that with care, stability, and opportunity, futures can be transformed.

Her journey is not only a testament to resilience, but also a powerful reminder of the impact donors make when they choose to invest in children’s lives. Through your generosity, young people like Aliyah can grow into leaders, visionaries, and change-makers in our community.

The Apostles’ House is honored to celebrate Aliyah and the Roman family—a shining example of legacy leadership and the living proof that when you support families in crisis, you are helping to build a stronger, brighter tomorrow.