Greater Somerset County YMCA Launches 2025 Annual Campaign to Raise Funds in Support of Community
Basking Ridge, New Jersey, February 13, 2025 – As the new year unfolds, Greater Somerset County YMCA is reflecting on its prior years’ community impact while setting a vision for the year ahead.
Greater Somerset County YMCA kicked off its 2025 Annual Campaign fundraising efforts on February 12th at Bridgewater Manor, hosting an annual meeting attended by nearly 150 guests, including donors, volunteers, members, and staff. The high-spirited event set the 2025 fundraising goal at $1,500,000. To date, the Y has raised $694,131—46% of its goal, with a target to achieve it by April 2025. Additionally, Y staff have pledged a total of $68,640, including 76 members of the Hourly Club—employees who show their commitment to the mission by donating the equivalent of one hour’s wages.
Lisa LaVecchia, Chair of the Greater Somerset County YMCA Board of Directors, emphasized, “Supporting the Y means inspiring young people to reach their full potential, empowering individuals to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body, and uplifting neighbors facing emotional, physical, and financial challenges. The Y’s annual campaign makes a meaningful difference by ensuring that neighbors in financial need have access to the support and resources they deserve.”
At the event, members shared personal stories about how Y programs have inspired transformation in their lives, underscoring this year’s campaign theme: Inspire. Empower. Uplift.
Attendees were moved by video testimonials from Y members, including Danielle and her triplets, Felix, Jacob, and Noah, who shared her journey of navigating motherhood, pursuing higher education, and ensuring her boys have enriching experiences in a safe and fun environment.
“For me, the Y is ‘make it or break it.’ I am a single mom of five children, a full-time paralegal, and a full-time student. If I didn’t have the Y’s programs, I wouldn’t be able to work, pursue my education, or support my family. My 6-year-old triplet boys love being part of the Y’s before-school care and camp programs. From playing outside to arts and crafts, to making summer friends, to the diverse environment and supportive staff—my boys are exposed to experiences that inspire them to be caring, open, and caving the opportunity to apply for financial assistance means I don’t feel like a burden to others, and I don’t have to struggle as hard to make ends meet. The Y is a wonderful asset in our community,” shared Danielle.
One hundred percent of the Y’s Annual Campaign donations go directly to the community. In 2024, the Y provided $2,677,418 in financial assistance and community program support, a 35% increase from funds given in 2023. These funds help provide financial assistance for childcare and summer camp, mission-based services such as rehabilitation programs for cancer patients, water safety programs to prevent accidental drownings, enrichment programs for individuals with special needs, workforce development for unemployed adults, and more.
David M. Carcieri, President & Chief Executive Officer, shared, “At Greater Somerset County YMCA, we work to address critical issues and meet our community’s ever-evolving needs, like youth development and health equity. Now more than ever, these efforts are essential. We believe everyone deserves access to the resources and opportunities that lead to a healthy, connected life—this belief drives our mission. And it’s the generosity of our donors that makes this impact possible.”
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 x100, 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 more information about Greater Somerset County YMCA and financial assistance, visit www.gscymca.org.