Greater Bergen County YMCA Earns 2025 Branch of the Year Honor

NEW MILFORD, NJ - The Greater Bergen County YMCA, New Milford Program Center has been named the 2025 Branch of the Year by the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, recognizing outstanding performance and impact across the organization.

The award was presented at the Metro YMCA’s Annual Campaign Celebration and Awards Dinner, held April 27 in East Hanover.

“The Greater Bergen Y exceeded expectations across fiscal performance, fundraising, strategic goals, and overall operations,” said Edward Philipp, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. “This recognition reflects their commitment to excellence, innovation, and meeting the needs of the community.”

The annual awards celebration highlights the progress of the YMCA’s Annual Support Campaign while honoring the achievements of branches and staff across the organization.

Over the past year, the Greater Bergen County YMCA:

• Doubled the size of its Board of Managers
• Achieved record enrollment in summer camp and youth sports programs
• Expanded participation in enrichment and wellness classes
• Now serves more than 350 children daily through its School Age Child Care program

The branch also met or exceeded its fundraising goals through grants, the Annual Support Campaign, and its 60th Annual Sports Award Banquet, helping expand access to YMCA programs for families in need.

In addition, the Y optimized its facility by subleasing its child care wing, creating more space for community use and programming.

The Greater Bergen County YMCA will mark four years at its New Milford location on Carnation Drive in 2026, following its relocation from Main Street in Hackensack.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named Branch of the Year,” said Executive Director Jason Kelly. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our staff and volunteers, who show up every day to support our community.”

“Our team has worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone,” Kelly added. “To be recognized among our fellow YMCA branches makes this achievement even more meaningful.”

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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 six 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.