West Essex YMCA Receives Gift for Yoga Studio at New Facility

LIVINGSTON, NJ — The West Essex YMCA is proud to announce a generous capital gift from Falguni "Fal" Pandya, a member of the West Essex YMCA Board, and her husband, Dr. Prashant Pandya. Their gift will provide the Mind and Body Studio at the new Y facility under construction at 304 S. Livingston Ave., where a dedication plaque will recognize their generosity.

The Mind and Body Studio will offer a quiet, dedicated space for yoga, meditation, tai chi and other mindful practices. It will give members of all ages a place to slow down, recharge and build habits that support lifelong health of spirit, mind and body.

For the Pandyas, the gift reflects a shared commitment to health and wellness. Having long integrated yoga into her life as both a student and teacher, Fal believes deeply in its transformative power to cultivate health and harmony across every dimension of wellbeing. Prashant, a physician who has practiced internal medicine in West Orange for more than 20 years, sees firsthand how healthy daily habits help patients prevent and manage chronic conditions.

"We are honored to donate the Mind and Body Studio to the new West Essex YMCA, creating a welcoming sanctuary where families can experience the lifelong benefits of yoga," said Fal and Dr. Pandya, who are Livingston residents. "We deeply admire the YMCA's vision and commitment to our region, and we look forward to welcoming our friends and neighbors through these doors."

"We are deeply grateful to Fal and Prashant for their partnership and for their belief in what the new West Essex Y can be for our community," said Cheryl Tuturice, District Executive Director for the West Essex YMCA. "The Mind and Body Studio will be a space where people can find balance, connection and calm for years to come."

The new West Essex Y facility is slated to open in winter 2027 and will serve as a cornerstone for community activities designed to promote health, wellness and engagement among children, adults and families. More details about this project are available at thenewlivingstonymca.org.

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About the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges

Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges (Metro Y) 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.