MARCH 8, 2024 | 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, beginning with “My Y Week,” March 18-24, at Y locations, and culminating at 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 are invited to help kick off the 150th anniversary 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 will be free and open to all. Residents who join the Y will have the initiation fee waived, a savings of up to $100.
Members will also be encouraged to share their stories of how the Y has made an impact on their lives and will be invited 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.”
Learn more about My Y Week. Current and former members are welcome to share their Y stories at https://ymcanj.org/y-stories/.
For additional information about joining the Y, donating, or volunteering, visit www.ymcanj.org.
About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
For 150 years, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has been here for all – to empower youth and teens, improve health and strengthen community. Over the past five years, our Y has provided more than $5 million in financial assistance and subsidies to Y participants throughout greater Monmouth County. Our life-changing programs and services are anchored in eight communities: health and wellness facilities in Freehold Township, Old Bridge and Red Bank; an outdoor day camp in Wall; counseling and social service centers in Eatontown, Matawan and Middletown; a childcare center in Freehold Township; and integrated in over 100 schools in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace in 2023 and 2022 by New Jersey Advance Media, we’re based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.
