Metro YMCA Honors Marlene Waldock with DeGhetto Philanthropic Award

LIVINGSTON, NJ—The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges honored Marlene Waldock with the Kenneth A. DeGhetto Philanthropic Ambassador Award, recognizing her exceptional service and dedication to the Y’s mission. A West Orange resident and longtime board member, Waldock has served in several leadership roles, including Chair of the Governance Committee and Secretary of the Board’s Executive Committee. She also played a key role in establishing the award, which recognizes outstanding board members who advance the YMCA’s mission.

“Having known Ken DeGhetto, I am deeply honored to receive this award for the second time and to be the only female recipient. It is humbling to stand alongside the distinguished past honorees,” said Waldock. "Over the past 14 years, I’ve experienced a meaningful learning journey. Coming from outside the Y, I didn’t fully understand its depth of impact, diversity, and inclusivity. I’m incredibly proud to be part of the Metro Y family."

Waldock’s commitment extends well beyond her board service. She has played an active role in fundraising, strengthening board engagement, and advocating for the Y’s inclusive community, all efforts that have significantly impacted the organization and those it serves.

Alongside four other women, she helped form “The Believers,” a group united by a shared conviction in the transformative power of the Y. Together, they made a leadership gift to name the Membership Office at the new West Essex YMCA, scheduled to open in late 2026. Their inspiring motto captures the spirit of their philanthropy: “We believe that everyone has the ability to live life as the best version of themselves.”

In addition to her volunteer work, Waldock owns 1st Impressions Communications, where she focuses on business coaching and women’s empowerment. She also founded Because We Are Women and leads a weekly group, “Motivational Mondays with Marlene.”

“The Kenneth A. DeGhetto Philanthropic Ambassador Award recognizes individuals who lead with generosity, passion, and purpose. Ken’s legacy reflects a deep commitment to the YMCA’s mission through meaningful engagement and service. Marlene embodies those same qualities, giving her time, talent, and resources in ways that have strengthened our organization and expanded our impact in the community,” said Board Chair Peter Tanella.

Leveraging her professional expertise, Waldock has contributed to staff development across the Y. She facilitated a communications course at Pioneer Trails Day Camp and trained staff on their critical role within the organization.

She also helped establish a partnership between Valley Bank and the Y to support volunteerism and fundraising initiatives. An active community leader, she serves as an officer of the Caldwell/West Essex Kiwanis and supports programs such as the Piranhas Swim Team, adaptive programming, and senior initiatives at the West Essex YMCA.

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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 seven branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston, Stillwater and Wayne 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.