West Essex YMCA Partners with Valley Bank to Advance New Facility Construction

LIVINGSTON, NJ, June 2, 2025 – The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges today announces a new strategic partnership with Valley National Bank, beginning with the construction of a brand new, state-of-the-art West Essex YMCA in Livingston. The comprehensive relationship between Valley and Metropolitan YMCA underscores a shared commitment to community, enhancing quality of life for area residents and businesses. The partnership was commemorated at the groundbreaking for the new facility on June 2.

The new West Essex Y facility, made possible through generous donors and by financing from Valley Bank, will serve as a cornerstone for community activities designed to promote health, wellness, and community engagement among children, adults, and families. The new 54,000-square-foot facility, more than double the size of the current West Essex Y, is slated to open in late 2026. It will be located at 304 S. Livingston Ave., on roughly six acres of land within walking distance of the current Y. More details about this project are available at thenewlivingstonymca.org.

Through its philanthropic efforts, the bank will support the Y’s Annual Support Campaign and related events. The bank also brings its industry expertise and resources to this partnership, with plans to hold financial literacy events for members at Metro YMCA branches. 

"We are excited to partner with Valley Bank as we begin a new chapter for the West Essex YMCA, which will benefit local families for generations,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges.

“The strategic partnership between Valley and the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges represents our alignment in values and commitment to making impact with non-profit organizations in the communities we serve,” said Fred Castrovinci, New Jersey Regional President at Valley Bank. “Their six locations have mutual overlap with Valley’s footprint, creating amazing opportunity for us to further connect our circles. The Y provides many outstanding programs to its members and their communities and we look forward to collaborating and partnering with their team on a number of initiatives for years to come.”

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About the Y

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety and quality of life for children, adults and seniors. Its branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston, and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.

About Valley National Bank

As the principal subsidiary of Valley National Bancorp, Valley National Bank is a regional bank with over $62 billion in assets. Valley is committed to giving people and businesses the power to succeed. Valley operates many convenient branch locations and commercial banking offices across New Jersey, New York, Florida, Alabama, California and Illinois, and is committed to providing the most convenient service, the latest innovations and an experienced and knowledgeable team dedicated to meeting customer needs. Helping communities grow and prosper is the heart of Valley’s corporate citizenship philosophy. To learn more about Valley, go to www.valley.com or call our Customer Care Center at 800-522-4100