YMCA Announces Milestone Anniversary

By: Community Magazine | March 15, 2024 |  Local |  Monmouth County

Strengthening Generations for 150 Years YMCA Announces Milestone Anniversary

SHREWSBURY, NJ - The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County (the Y) is proud to announce its 150th anniversary of strengthening generations of greater Monmouth County residents and communities. The nonprofit, founded in downtown Red Bank on March 16, 1874, will celebrate its historic milestone throughout the year culminating with a festive gala on Nov. 14 at the Shadowbrook in Shrewsbury. “For over a century and a half, our Y has been a force for good, empowering generations of individuals, irrespective of age, income, beliefs, or background,” said President and CEO Laurie Goganzer.

“Our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging, nurturing potential, and uplifting our community continues to guide us.” Y members and prospective members helped kick off the 150th anniversary in March with cupcakes and special giveaways during “My Y Week” at the organization’s wellness centers in Red Bank, Freehold and Old Bridge. Throughout the week, the Y was free and open to all. Members are being encouraged to share their stories of how the Y has made an impact on their lives and to support the 2024 Annual Campaign that makes it possible for the Y to be open to all, regardless of ability to pay the full price for membership. “Our 150th anniversary is more than a milestone; it's a celebration of resilience, unity, and the countless stories that have helped to shape our YMCA,” said Chief Volunteer Officer Michael A. Wright.

“We are dedicated to being inclusive, embracing everyone who walks through our doors.” Throughout the Y’s history, Goganzer noted, it has responded to the community’s many changing needs, adding affordable child care for working families, offering summer camp programs for youth and teens, and providing personal and family counseling, in addition to swim lessons and extensive health and wellness programs. In 2019, The Community YMCA joined together with the YMCA of Western Monmouth County to create the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, which serves communities throughout Monmouth County, and areas in Middlesex and Ocean counties.

“We’ve forged hundreds of partnerships and collaborations with other nonprofits, businesses, government agencies, and community groups to strengthen our ability to address the needs in our growing community,” Goganzer said. “We believe that we are better together.”