YMCA celebrates multitude of donations

Photo Courtesy of Margaret McHugh
The South Mountain YMCA staff celebrates nearly reaching its fundraising goal.

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — In just six weeks, staff and members at the seven Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges branches raised 70 percent of the organization’s $1,125,000 annual campaign goal.

“This achievement is a testament to our staff and members’ commitment to their communities through our mission of promoting healthy living, youth development and social responsibility,” Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges President and CEO Richard K. Gorab said.

Campaign proceeds will support children, families and adults in need who live in communities served by Metro YMCA branches: the East Orange YMCA, Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, South Mountain YMCA, Sussex County YMCA, Wayne YMCA, West Essex YMCA in Livingston and the YMCA of Greater Bergen County.

The Metro YMCA launched its “Calling All Superheroes” annual campaign on Jan. 22, with branch executive directors dressed as superheroes at the Hanover Manor in East Hanover. More than 210 staff, members and other supporters gathered again on March 5 to celebrate the six-week achievement of raising $788,000.

“Our South Mountain YMCA members, families, friends and supporters in SOMA have stepped up to become superheroes for our community,” South Mountain YMCA Executive Director James Goodger said. “Our annual campaign is off to a super start and we look forward to raising more throughout this year to enable more SOMA families, kids and campers to participate and experience the South Mountain YMCA.”