Greater Somerset County YMCA Sets Fundraising Goal Over $1M

From the Greater Somerset County YMCA:

February 10 2020

Basking Ridge, N.J. – Greater Somerset County YMCA held its Annual Meeting and 2020 Annual Campaign Kick Off at the Bridgewater Manor on Wednesday, Feb. 5. Over 200 donors, volunteers, members, staff and friends of the Y attended the event.

Among those in attendance were: Somerset County Freeholder Director Shanel Robinson; Somerset County Freeholder Deputy Director Sara Sooy; Somerset County Freeholders Melonie Marano and Brian Gallagher; and Bernardsville Mayor Mary Jane Canose.

At the event, individuals shared their personal stories about Y programs that have inspired transformations in their lives, underscoring the theme of this year's campaign, Transform Lives. The Y also announced its $1,150,000 goal to expand its ability to help those in need within the community. The Y plans to achieve its goal by April 2020.

Greater Somerset County YMCA is committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. Together with its donors, the Y ensures that its doors are open to all so everyone can look forward to a brighter future.

“The Y bridges social divides and helps to build thriving communities in which we can all live, work and play,” said David M. Carcieri, president and CEO of Greater Somerset County YMCA. “Guided by our strategic plan, we consistently seek to develop programs, collaborations and opportunities to address the pressing health and social needs of the community.”

Greater Somerset County Board Chair John McManus, spoke about the future of the Y and its significance to Somerset County.

“The Y’s impact in Somerset County and the surrounding communities is profound and enduring. For more than 145 years, we have been strengthening community by investing in youth, health

and neighbors,” McManus said. “As we look forward, we will further strengthen our organization through a commitment to nonprofit excellence, sound financial stewardship, continual reinvestment in our facilities and communities, expansion into underserved markets and smart growth initiatives.”

Ana Duarte-McCarthy, Greater Somerset County YMCA board member and Annual Campaign chair, talked about the importance of supporting the Y.

“When donors give to the Y, they help change the trajectory of lives,” Duarte-McCarthy said. “The Y is a place where everyone feels welcome, supported and connected. It’s a level playing field where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Together with our donors, we deepen community impact and transform lives for a brighter future for us all, as individuals and as a community.”

Bernards Township Mayor Jim Baldassare said: “Having the Somerset Hills YMCA, with its outstanding facilities, programs and staff located in Bernards Township is a big part of what makes our community one of the best places to live.”

Somerset County Freeholder Melonie Marano said: “The Y is what comes to my mind when someone says the word community. A gathering place welcoming young, old and in between, encouraging positive lifestyles to all.”

Bernardsville Mayor Mary Jane Canose said: “At the Y, you get a sense of community and belonging.”

With funds raised through our Annual Campaign, the Y provided over $1.7 million in program support and direct financial assistance to qualifying individuals and families in 2019. As community needs continue to grow, the Y has steadily worked to close the gap between the need and funds raised.

Event guests were moved by a testimonial from Bridgewater YMCA and Somerville YMCA member Verne, who, along with her son, were victims of domestic violence. After noticing her son was giving up on himself and life, she came to the Y. With the help of the Y’s Financial Assistance program, she was able to enroll him in after-school and summer camp programs where he met friends, began socializing again and benefited from the structure and academic support offered at the Y.

“At the Y, we feel like our lives really matter,” Verne said. “My son participates in After School Care, Summer Camp and he even took swim lessons. The Y staff were positive role models for him, and the programs offer structure, discipline and academic support, all of which is much-needed in his life. Through the programs, he has found friends, he’s got self confidence and hope. I have enjoyed seeing him thrive. It’s been a total transformation.”

Donations made to the Y’s Annual Campaign can be designated for a specific branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA and will support the local community served by that branch. To volunteer or for more information about the Y’s Annual Campaign or to make a gift, contact Sylvia Velez, annual campaign chair, at svelez@somersetcountyymca.org or 908 630 3535 x102 or visit www.somersetcountyymca.org/give.

This press release was produced by the Greater Somerset County YMCA. The views expressed here are the author’s own.