Hillsborough YMCA Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for Newly Renovated Facility

Hillsborough, New Jersey, February 6th, 2024 – On Wednesday, January 31st, Hillsborough YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the reveal of its newly renovated facility.

“This project started back in 2019. But, when the pandemic hit in 2020, our attention and efforts shifted to meet urgent community needs. Our Hillsborough YMCA team aptly worked to provide emergency childcare for essential workers, food security initiatives, academic support centers for remote learning, summer camp, and much more,” David M. Carcieri, President and Chief Executive Officer, says, “It was, most definitely, a challenging time. Yet, it demonstrated our commitment to serving the community. The renovation and revitalization of Hillsborough YMCA is born of the same commitment. And that is what made the day so special.”

Since opening to the community in 1996, Hillsborough YMCA has evolved to remain a vibrant and essential community center. The renovation project, initiated in 2019, brings upgraded amenities to the facility including revitalized locker rooms, new universal/family locker rooms, an expanded Wellness Center with state-of-the-art equipment, three new classrooms for educational programs, and a modernized Welcome Center with social spaces. Importantly, all the renovations to Hillsborough YMCA were designed through a lens of inclusivity and removing barriers for individuals of all backgrounds and abilities.

The Y celebrated with over 60 attendees, including elected officials, dedicated branch board members, supportive community partners, and excited members and staff. Guests were warmly welcomed into the enhanced Welcome Center, designed to provide an improved experience for members and their families during every visit to the Y.

At the event, Deputy District Director for U.S. Congressman Thomas Kean, JD Bryden, presented David Carcieri with Special Congressional Recognition in commemoration of the ribbon-cutting and opening the renovated facility.

The Hillsborough YMCA revitalization project is funded through a capital campaign with the generous support of donors, as well as a Community Project Funding grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Yet, a gap to goal for the fundraising campaign exists to complete the project.

“To finish the renovations, we continue to raise funds for this capital project as a meaningful, legacy opportunity rooted in the support of Hillsborough neighbors for generations to come,” says John Cassimatis, Hillsborough YMCA Branch Board Chair.

A few weeks prior to the official reveal, Hillsborough YMCA offered its members a sneak peek during the temporary occupancy phase. Notably, a heartwarming moment unfolded as an older member signed up at the YMCA, with her granddaughter guiding her through the entire process.

“From addressing essential needs to thoughtful enhancements, the renovated facility represents progress we can all take pride in and is an exciting step forward for our community,” says Ben Green, District Vice President of Operations, “The positive impact on our community for generations to come is something we eagerly anticipate. The renovation reflects our commitment to serving diverse community needs. With these enhancements, we are well-positioned to continue providing valuable support to our families and the community.”

To conclude the exciting afternoon, Hillsborough YMCA staff provided tours of the facility to the attending guests.

To support the Y and learn more about Hillsborough YMCA’s renovation visit, https://www.gscymca.org/our-community/capital-projects/hy-renovation/.

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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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