SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Members and community members are inspired each day to make a difference in the lives of others with small and large acts of kindness. Your support has helped others who are less fortunate to access opportunities to learn, grow and thrive. 
DIRECT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
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​At the Summit Area YMCA, we are here for the community and have been since our founding in 1886. As a nonprofit, we are committed to enhancing the lives of individuals and families in our community. With the generous donations of members, donors, and partners in the community from funds raised during our Annual Campaign and special events, the Summit Area YMCA is able to offer financial assistance to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Families with low or moderate household income or those who are experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply. Financial assistance can be used for membership, child care, summer camp and/or enrichment and sports programs where additional fees apply, such as soccer and swimming lessons. ​

FREE ​COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

​In addition to providing access to fee-based Y programs and memberships, the Summit Area YMCA also offers a number of meaningful, free community programs and volunteer opportunities to give back and help our neighbors.

QUALITY, AFFORDABLE CHILDCARE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST

"As a single working mother going to school full time, I needed an affordable, quality childcare program for Gaven, my 2 year old. With the generous financial assistance from the Summit Area YMCA, I was able to leave Gaven in the hands of caring, attentive teachers who wanted only the best for him. After 6-7 months in the Toddler program, Gaven was diagnosed with kidney cancer which had metastasized to his lungs and I had to pull him from school. The teachers regularly sent me emails rooting for his speedy recovery and return. Today we're back at the Y and Gaven is getting stronger physically and emotionally every day. The Y is truly a community that supports, loves and helps you when you need it."
— Sianneth, The Learning Circle YMCA

TEACHING IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS

Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of 5 and 14. In 88% of drownings, an adult was present but that was not enough. As an organization dedicated to the healthy development of youth, we at the Summit Area YMCA provide a 2nd Grade Learn to Swim program where all 2nd graders in our service area can learn to swim for free.
"I am learning freestyle, backstroke and how to float—I didn't know how to before I came to the Y. You don't have to be scared because the teachers and lifeguards are there to teach you. Swim lessons prevent accidents. I'm really glad the Y has free Learn to Swim classes for 2nd Graders."
— Innocence, Summit YMCA

TEACHING IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS

"My weight was at an all-time high because of a recent knee surgery, having moved to the area with the military and not knowing anyone and a new baby. The Y was our saving grace. It was a blessing that we were given a free membership that came with free babysitting which let me focus on my own health and well-being.  Luke and I now exercise together and it has been amazing for our relationship as a couple. Sometimes after you have kids, it's easy to forget that you were a couple before you became parents. Now, I've lost 40lbs, I'm almost back to pre-baby weight, and my knee is stronger than ever! I'm so thankful that the Y is here for us."
​— Brittany, Summit YMCA
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SUMMIT AREA YMCA
BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SPRINGFIELD COMMUNITY POOL | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE YMCA
In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association, but today, we are The Y. An association that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.
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Each year, as one of the area’s leading 501(c)3 charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.
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