Somerset Hills YMCA and Bernards Township Receive $70,000 Age-Friendly Community Grant from the New Jersey Department of Human Services
Basking Ridge, N.J. – December 15, 2025 – Somerset Hills YMCA, a branch of Greater Somerset County YMCA, in partnership with Bernards Township, has been awarded a $70,000 grant through the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ (NJDHS) Age-Friendly Grants Program. The program supports local efforts to build more inclusive, supportive, and livable communities for older adults.
The NJDHS Age-Friendly Grants Program recognizes that even modest investments can significantly enhance the sustainability and long-term impact of age-friendly community initiatives. This funding aligns with statewide priorities to expand age-friendly planning, strengthen local partnerships, and support long-term community well-being.
Somerset Hills YMCA is leading the initiative, working closely with Bernards Township, which will provide support through planning, outreach, and the consideration of integration of findings into local services.
Mayor Janice Fields shared, “I am very pleased as Mayor of Bernards Township, along with Deputy Mayor Andrew McNally and the members of our Township Committee, to support our partnership with Somerset Hills YMCA in the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Age-Friendly Community Grant. Through this partnership, Bernards Township will support Somerset Hills YMCA in its efforts to assess, plan, and implement age-friendly initiatives that will enhance the quality of life for older adults in our community.”
Program components will include Somerset Hills YMCA’s Healthy Aging Program, with older adult participants helping shape topics such as falls prevention, digital literacy, and intergenerational storytelling. Workshops, presentations, peer learning opportunities, and partnerships with statewide organizations will help ensure programming reflects the lived experiences and needs of the community.
Committeewoman Ana Duarte McCarthy, who will serve as the Township Committee liaison, added, “I am a longtime supporter of Greater Somerset County YMCA and have experienced the positive impact the organization has on our community. Nearly 18% of Bernards Township residents are aged 65 and older, representing a significant and growing segment of the community. Through this partnership with the Y on the Age-Friendly Community Grant, we will actively work with residents and local organizations to make our community an age-friendly place to live.”
Somerset Hills YMCA’s commitment to supporting older adults shines year-round through ongoing lectures, workshops, screenings, and classes. Healthy Aging Week builds on this foundation as a special annual event celebrating the vibrancy and contributions of older adults with a robust lineup of specialty classes and seminars from AOA Slow Flow Yoga and AOA Strength to focused workshops on fall prevention and financial planning.
To learn more about healthy living offerings for Active Older Adults, visit here.
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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.