Greater Somerset County YMCA Raises Funds in Support of Community
Basking Ridge, New Jersey, February 16th, 2024 – As the new year unfolds, the Y shared their community impact, highlighting the prior year’s achievements and vision for the upcoming year.
Greater Somerset County YMCA officially launched its 2024 annual campaign fundraising efforts on February 7th at Bridgewater Manor, hosting an annual meeting attended by nearly 200 guests including donors, volunteers, members, and staff. The high-spirited event enthusiastically set the fundraising goal for 2024 at $1,480,000. So far, the Y has raised $719,714 (49%) towards this goal, with a target to achieve it by April 2024.
David M. Carcieri, President & Chief Executive Officer, shared, “As Coretta Scott King once said, ‘The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.’ Greater Somerset County YMCA remains uniquely positioned to enrich lives and foster community bonds. It is this collective spirit that defines us and makes us special. At the Y, we are committed to equity and believe that everyone deserves access to resources and opportunities that promote a healthy, connected life. We rely on the generosity of our donors to fuel our mission.”
At the event, members shared their personal stories about Y programs that have inspired transformations in their lives, underscoring the theme of this year’s campaign, Inspire. Empower. Uplift.
Attendees were touched by the video testimonials from Y members, among them 8 year-old Madison and her family, who recounted her journey of building confidence and forming friendships as she conquered her water insecurity. “The reason we had Madison join the Y is because we identified some obstacles that she was going through…one was being socially distant from a lot of people. Before Madison joined the Y program, she was afraid of water, she would not get in water at all. Through the Y’s program, she has become very excited about swimming. When she first started, the length of the pool was daunting. But the Y’s staff supported and encouraged her, and through the Y’s program, Madison has gained a huge amount of confidence while building her social and swim skills. The Y is teaching her not only to go the distance in the pool, but also in life.” says Robert, Madison’s dad.
One hundred percent of the Y’s Annual Campaign donations go directly to the community. In 2023, the Y provided $1,978,666 in direct financial assistance and community program support. The funds support financial assistance for childcare and summer camp, mission-based services such as rehabilitation programs for cancer patients, water safety to minimize accidental drownings, enrichment programs for individuals with special needs, workforce development for the unemployed, and more.
Greg M. Romano, Greater Somerset County YMCA Board of Directors Chair, emphasized, “The Y plays an essential role in our community. Our strategic plan guides our organization’s growth and progress, ensuring we remain a relevant and vital asset to the communities we serve. With a growth mindset, clear vision, focused leadership, fiscal responsibility, and philanthropic support, we are poised to deepen our community impact and continue transforming lives.”
For more information about the Y’s Annual Campaign or to make a gift, contact Chief Philanthropy Officer Kelly Castro at [email protected] or 908-630-3535 x8100, or visit www.gscymca.org/give.
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About Greater Somerset County YMCA
Greater Somerset County YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. The Y empowers everyone—no matter who they are or where they’re from—by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. For information about Greater Somerset County YMCA and financial assistance, visit us at www.gscymca.org/.
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