Greater Somerset County YMCA Recognizes Volunteers at Annual Campaign Celebration and Spirit Awards
Basking Ridge, New Jersey, April 15, 2024 – On April 10, 2024, Greater Somerset County YMCA celebrated this year’s Spirit Award recipients and the success of its Annual Campaign at Raritan Valley Country Club in Bridgewater.
During National Volunteer Month, the Y recognized individuals and groups for their selfless spirit and their significant contributions to the community through their involvement with the YMCA.
David M. Carcieri, President and CEO of Greater Somerset County YMCA, expressed gratitude to donors, volunteers, government officials, and staff, by emphasizing their vital role in advancing the Y’s mission. He shared, “The success of Greater Somerset County YMCA directly reflects the dedication of our donors, partners, and volunteers. Their unwavering support of and commitment to the community are indispensable in the work we do each day. Through their generous donation of time, talent, and resources, they uplift neighbors and create opportunities that transform lives.”
2024 Spirit Award Recipients:
Youth Award: Chloe Moss at Somerset Hills YMCA
Adult Award: Shakti Harris at Bridgewater & Somerville YMCAs
Family Award: Chris & Sarah Hayevy at Bridgewater & Somerville YMCAs
Active Older Adult: Ethel Wheeler at Plainfield YMCA
Group Award: 150th Anniversary Committee at Greater Somerset County YMCA including:
Robyn Burke
Peter Cirignano
Chris Edwards
Erika Evleth
D’Brickashaw Ferguson
Kate Fleschler
Marisabel Fernandez
Lisa LaVecchia
Karen Ostarticki
Linda Osterman
Leadership Award: Jennifer Giesber at Hillsborough YMCA
Living Our Cause Award: Steve Oliver at Greater Somerset County YMCA
Ray of Light: Lee Udelsman at Somerset Hills YMCA
Community Partner Award: Somerset County at Franklin Township YMCA including:
Commissioner Director, Shanel Robinson
Commissioner Deputy Director, Sara Sooy
Commissioner, Paul Drake
Commissioner, Melonie Marano
Commissioner, Douglas Singleterry
Chief Communications Officer, Brad Fay
Board Leadership Award: Chuck Craig & Doug Grierson at Greater Somerset County YMCA & Princeton YMCA
Philanthropy Award: The Bocina Family at Greater Somerset County YMCA including:
Bruce Bocina
Barbara Curtin
Brenda Curnin
Lifetime Achievement Award: Gail Granowitz at Greater Somerset County YMCA
The awards were presented by Greg Romano, Chair of Greater Somerset County YMCA’s Board of Directors. He shared, “The Spirit Awards fittingly honor Y volunteers whose generous spirits enable our centers to provide the support and resources necessary for everyone to thrive.”
During a lively celebration with maracas in hand, Lisa LaVecchia, Vice Chair of Greater Somerset County YMCA’s Board of Directors and Annual Campaign Chair announced fundraising achievements towards its 2024 Annual Campaign goal of $1,480,000. These funds support financial assistance for childcare and summer camp, mission-based services like rehabilitation programs for cancer patients, water safety programs to prevent accidental drownings, enrichment programs for individuals with special needs, workforce development for the unemployed, and more.
Although the YMCA has met this year’s campaign goal, Greater Somerset County YMCA remains committed to ongoing fundraising efforts to ensure equity and underscoring the belief that everyone deserves access to resources and opportunities that promote a healthy, connected life.
For those interested in making a difference in the community through donations or volunteering with the YMCA, please visit https://www.gscymca.org/our-community/support-the-y/.
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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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