Category: News

Ridgewood YMCA Partners with Special Olympics NJ

Posted on Updated on by Melissa Bowley

Ridgewood YMCA Partners with Special Olympics New Jersey

January 30, 2025

Partnership to Provide More Opportunities for Programming in North Jersey

Ridgewood, NJ – Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) and the Ridgewood YMCA are proud to announce the addition of an SONJ North Jersey satellite location in Ridgewood, NJ.  On Thursday, January 30, SONJ and the Ridgewood YMCA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to provide inclusive sports training and competition, health and wellness screenings, and continued support for the advancement of awareness and outreach for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across North Jersey.  YMCA President and CEO, Ramon M. Hache, Sr. and Heather Andersen, President and CEO of SONJ, formalized the partnership by signing a 3-year commitment.

“North Jersey has continued to be a focus for the growth of our organization,” said Heather Andersen. “This partnership presents a tremendous opportunity for new athletes, families, and volunteers to get involved with our mission and will allow us to better serve the communities of North Jersey.”

Through this partnership, SONJ and the Ridgewood YMCA will expand opportunities to offer programming and benefits for the residents of North Jersey in many different areas.  County and Local training and competition will take place on site along with the potential for SONJ summer camp, Camp Shriver. Other events may include Coach Training and Education classes, Healthy Athletes discipline events and screenings, Unified Sports utilization of the complex and facilities, Young Athletes community programs will meet, and much more.

“The Ridgewood YMCA is committed to creating programs that positively impact lives through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility,” said Hache. “This partnership with Special Olympics New Jersey allows us to further that mission by providing more opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive, both on and off the field.”

For more information about the partnership visit www.sonj.org.

About Special Olympics New Jersey:

For over 55 years, Special Olympics New Jersey has provided year-round sports training and athletic competition in 22 Olympic-type sports for thousands of children and adults with intellectual disabilities, completely free of charge.  Through the joy and power of sports, athletes are provided opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community. Visit www.sonj.org for more information.

Drew Kelley – 30 Under 30 Award

Posted on Updated on by Melissa Bowley

Drew Kelley Receives YMCA's 30 Under 30 AWard

December 23, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Drew Kelley, Senior Program Director at YMCA Camp Bernie, has been recognized as a 30 Under 30 Awardee by YMCA of the USA! This prestigious honor highlights exceptional individuals who, by the age of 30, have demonstrated remarkable leadership, innovation, and a deep commitment to the Y’s mission. It also celebrates their potential for continued growth and the ability to redefine what leadership means in service to others.

This recognition is a testament to Drew’s outstanding leadership, creative vision, and dedication to the campers, staff, and community of Camp Bernie. His passion for creating transformative experiences and building meaningful relationships serves as an inspiration to us all.

We are incredibly proud of Drews achievements, and excited to see how his leadership will continue to shape the future of YMCA Camp Bernie. This well-deserved honor reflects his hard work and the positive impact he’s made on those around him.

Drew was selected from nearly 100 nominees from YMCAs across the country, and we couldn’t be more proud of his journey and the incredible impact he’s had at the Y.

To learn more about Drew’s accomplishments and his journey with the Y read his 30 Under 30 award announcement below.

Complete 30 under 30 Announcement
Video Announcement

Ridgewood YMCA Lifeguards receive Lifesaving Award

Posted on Updated on by Melissa Bowley

Heroes among us! Ridgewood YMCA Lifeguards Receive Lifesaving Award

December 18, 2024 – Ridgewood, NJ

This summer, three lifeguards from the Ridgewood YMCA displayed exceptional courage and quick thinking, saving a patron’s life at Darlington County Park. In recognition of their heroism, the American Red Cross recently awarded Andrew, Tom, and Maya the prestigious Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders in a special ceremony held at the Ridgewood YMCA.  

Over the course of the summer, more than 100 lifeguards are trained and certified by the Ridgewood YMCA to ensure the safety of park visitors. Each guard that was honored had worked with the YMCA for three or more years and had completed extensive waterfront and lifeguard training, along with numerous certification hours, all of which had prepared them for emergency rescues. This past summer a patron lost consciousness on a raft in the center of the lake. Within just two minutes of spotting the emergency, Head Guard Andrew, along with Assistant Guards Tom and Maya, sprang into action.  

The lifeguards acted quickly, working together seamlessly to stabilize the individual. Andrew assisted with rapid extraction from the water bringing them to shore with a rescue board.  They immediately notified EMS, assessed the situation, and Maya monitored vitals and provided emergency O2.  

When EMS arrived, the patron was showing signs of life, a testament to the lifeguards’ prompt and effective response.  

The lifesaving team was honored during a surprise ceremony at the Ridgewood YMCA, surrounded by fellow lifeguards, family members, and community supporters. During the ceremony, the American Red Cross presented them with the Lifesaving Award, recognizing their professionalism, skill, and bravery in a critical moment.

For those interested in learning how to become a lifeguard and gain the skills necessary to make a life-saving difference, the Ridgewood YMCA offers American Red Cross lifeguard training. To learn more and register for upcoming courses, visit the Ridgewood YMCA’s Lifeguard Training Page.

The Ridgewood YMCA remains committed to ensuring the safety of all those who visit Darlington County Park and to training the next generation of lifeguards who will continue to serve with excellence and care.

National Lifesaving Awards

After 110 years, the American Red Cross Lifesaving Awards program, originally conceived as one award in 1911, has since evolved into three: The Certificate of Merit, The Lifesaving Award for Professional Responders, and The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action.

The first was awarded 1911 in recognition of first aid work rendered by railway men who helped save a life. From 1911, thousands of awards have been issued to individuals who have saved or have sustained a life, many as a direct result of American Red Cross Training Services programs.

If you or someone you know has used skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain the life of another individual, you can visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate, recognize, or be inspired. 

 

Jonathan Ryerson Appointed COO/CFO/EVP

Posted on Updated on by Melissa Bowley

Ridgewood YMCA Announces Jonathan Ryerson as New COO/CFO/EVP

November 2024 – Ridgewood NJ

Ridgewood, NJ – The Ridgewood YMCA is proud to announce Jonathan Ryerson as its new Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Executive Vice President. Jonathan’s journey with the Ridgewood Y began in 2014 when he first joined as an intern. Throughout his time at the Ridgewood YMCA, his commitment to the mission and strong financial background have allowed him to succeed and rise through the ranks of the organization.

Jonathan’s roles have included serving as a Staff Accountant, Senior Accountant, and Controller, each position preparing him with the expertise needed for his new role as COO/CFO/EVP.  From ensuring a smooth acquisition of the Oak Street Facility from the YWCA, to sustaining operations through COVID-19 restrictions, his leadership and financial acumen have been pivotal in shaping the organization’s growth and sustainability.

“Jonathan’s meteoric rise in the organization is attributed to his hard work and tremendous dedication. We are very fortunate to be able to cultivate succession organically within our own talent pool,” said Ramon M. Hache, Sr., CEO and President of the Ridgewood YMCA.

“I am humbled to step into this new role and look forward to working with our dedicated staff and Board to serve the Ridgewood YMCA community,” said Jonathan. “As someone who has experienced firsthand the positive impact of youth programs, I am deeply committed to expanding our initiatives and ensuring that every person who comes through our doors feels supported and inspired to reach their full potential.”

As a multi-sport athlete from ages 6-18, Jonathan has a personal understanding of the importance of youth programs. With a passion for health and fitness and a commitment to giving back, he is deeply dedicated to ensuring that the Ridgewood YMCA continues to provide inclusive and impactful services for all young people in the community.

About the Ridgewood YMCA

Established in 1902, the Ridgewood YMCA is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Northern New Jersey and Port Murray area. We offer programs and community connections that positively impact lives through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, building spirit, mind and body for all. You can learn more about the organization at www.ridgewoodymca.org or by calling (201) 444-5600.

ANNOUNCEMENT: New Autism + Adaptive Program

Posted on Updated on by Sherry Danna

The Ridgewood Y is Proud to Announce our new
Autism + Adaptive Program

May 9, 2024 – The Ridgewood YMCA is proud to announce the launch of our new Autism and Adaptive Program for adults 21 years and older. Here at the Y, we are committed to our mission of serving the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our Autism and Adaptive programming builds upon this by providing a wellness-based approach that considers the needs of young adults transitioning out of the school system.

In 2023, the Ridgewood Y began hosting autism think tank sessions that brought together local parents, experts, and leaders from partner organizations to understand the community’s needs. With this valuable input, we have developed programming to support the underserved population of adults with disabilities, primarily on the autism spectrum.

The Ridgewood YMCA’s Autism + Adaptive Program offers a wellness-based approach to support individuals with diverse abilities. Currently, our program includes specialized aquatics instruction and resources to help individuals thrive, with plans to expand into fitness and enrichment activities. As we continue to grow, we aim to create an inclusive environment that supports both individuals and their families.

As a leader in community programming since 1902, the Ridgewood Y aims to empower individuals to achieve their potential and create opportunities for everyone to thrive and succeed. We invite you to learn more about our Autism and Adaptive Program below.

AQUATICS
RESOURCES
AQUATICS
RESOURCES

To inquire about arranging a social event for your group, please contact Richa Koirala [email protected]

Financial Aid

We believe the opportunity to gain personal growth from our programming should be accessible to everyone regardless of financial situation or socioeconomic status. Our Membership for All program ensures that nobody is turned away because of inability to pay.

Download our application here.

Charitie Bruning Appointed Executive Director of YMCA Camp Bernie

Posted on Updated on by Sherry Danna

Port Murray, NJ – December 6, 2023– The Ridgewood YMCA is proud to announce the appointment of Charitie Bruning as the Executive Director of Ridgewood YMCA’s Camp Bernie.

Bruning is no stranger to the YMCA, having spent over fifteen years managing branches, teen programs, and summer camp initiatives with YMCA Buffalo Niagara and Genesee YMCA.

Prior to joining Camp Bernie, Bruning provided resources, development, training, and other support to YMCA community programs, specializing in team-building and facilitation.

“I understand the value that these programs have on youth and teens within the community,” Bruning said. “It has always been an aspiration of mine to give back to the programs that developed me into the community leader that I am today.”

“We are delighted to welcome Charitie Bruning to the Ridgewood YMCA Camp Bernie family,” Ridgewood YMCA CEO, Ramon Hache, said. “Bringing in Charitie is a key component of our strategic vision for the camp, as she brings tremendous knowledge and energy, helping us drive the growth and quality of Camp Bernie while building stronger relationships with the communities we serve.”

Upon taking over as Executive Director on November 13th, 2023, Bruning will continue to cultivate impactful and engaging experiences in line with the YMCA’s core values of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. – 

DID YOU KNOW that since 1956, the Ridgewood Y has owned and operated a full-facility summer camp in Port Murray NJ?

In addition to our very own Camp Woods here in Ridgewood, our sister facility Camp Bernie boasts a full summer day camp program as well as overnight camp for kids in grades 2nd-10th.

Learn more about Camp Bernie!

Ridgewood YMCA Names New CEO

Posted on Updated on by Beth Enright

RAMON HACHE APPOINTED NEW CEO OF RIDGEWOOD YMCA

March 2, 2023 – RIDGEWOOD, NJ

The Ridgewood YMCA’s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Ramon M. Hache Sr. as Chief Executive Officer.

Hache followed a long career in banking, finance and business development with several terms in elective office including Mayor and Councilman of Ridgewood, and Bergen County Commissioner. He was selected through a nationwide search led by the Ridgewood YMCA Board of Directors with support from the YMCA of the USA and New Jersey YMCA State Alliance. He succeeds Ernest Lamour, now CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester. Hache has resigned as Bergen County Commissioner in order to focus on his new position with the Ridgewood YMCA and to avoid any conflicts with the organization’s policies regarding political activities. He will officially assume the role of CEO on March 6, 2023.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to be part of this Y’s tremendous legacy and eager to start this new chapter in my service to Northern New Jersey. I am excited to work in partnership with our talented staff and volunteers to help our community members belong, grow and thrive.” shares Hache.

“Among the many fine candidates for the position of Ridgewood Y CEO, Ramon’s accomplishments and history of advancing the community were unique, and we are confident about what our Y will become under his leadership” says Shannon Warren, Chair of the Ridgewood YMCA Board of Directors.

Through Hache’s leadership role in Feed the Front Lines, Ridgewood’s innovative food security program that has generated more than $4 million in grants, thousands of meals have been served to Bergen County residents in need while saving hundreds of restaurant jobs during the pandemic and beyond.

“Ramon’s contributions to the Bergen County Board of Commissioners have been impactful and appreciated,” says Thomas Sullivan, Chairman of the Bergen County Board of Commissioners. “His energy and passion will be missed, but they will be well-used in his new role and we wish him the best of luck.”

About the Ridgewood YMCA

Established in 1902, the Ridgewood YMCA is 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving Northern New Jersey and Port Murray area. We offer programs and community connections that positively impact lives through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, building spirit, mind and body for all. You can learn more about the organization at www.ridgewoodymca.org or by calling (201) 444-5600.

RIDGEWOOD Y RECEIVES A GENEROUS GIFT

Posted on Updated on by Beth Enright

Ridgewood, NJ – February 2023 – The Ridgewood YMCA, a vital community resource serving Northern New Jersey and Port Murray area, recently received a generous gift from Paul Simpson and Becky Simpson in support of all of the great work, programs and community leadership that the YMCA provides to the local communities and people. To honor the donation, the YMCA’s Mind & Body studio will now be named the Becky and Paul Simpson Health & Fitness Studio.

The Simpsons said, “It is our honor to support such an amazing organization that helps so many. The Y has played a critical role to both our community and family for many years.”

“We are delighted that the Simpsons chose us as the organization fitting of such an honor and this gift will help us continue to serve more youth and adults for many years to come in the Becky and Paul Simpson Health & Fitness Studio” said Shannon Warren, Chair of the Ridgewood YMCA Board of Directors. “Given the importance of health and wellness, even more magnified as we recover from the recent pandemic, Ridgewood YMCA is committed to offering programs to improve individual health and well-being.”

About the Ridgewood YMCA

Established in 1902, the Ridgewood YMCA is a 501(c)(3) organization that offers programs and community connections that positively impact lives through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, building spirit, mind and body for all. You can learn more about the organization at www.ridgewoodymca.org or by calling (201) 444-5600.

RIDGEWOOD YMCA NEW COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND

Posted on Updated on by Beth Enright
Ridgewood YMCA unveils new community playground


Ridgewood, NJ — On March 28, 2022, the Ridgewood YMCA hosted a ribbon cutting event and reception to thank supporters and present the newly constructed community playground. This project was only possible through a generous donation from The Columbia Bank Foundation.

Mayor Susan Knudsen presented a certificate….

Councilwoman Pamela Perron and Councilman Paul Vagianos were in attendance, extending congratulations on the completion of the playground and its benefit to the community. Ridgewood YMCA Trustees and Board Members including Shannon Warren, Board Chair, and Brian Hughes, Trustee Chair, we on hand to share in the celebration. Julie Holland, Foundation Executive Director and Minoska Mateo, Community Development Manager from Columbia Bank joined Mr. Lamour in the official ribbon cutting, and children from the Ridgewood YMCA preschool and others were the first to enjoy the playground.

“We are pleased to complete this long-awaited playground at the Ridgewood Y,” says Ernest Lamour, President and CEO. “The pandemic underscored for us the importance of having ample space for children to play and learn in the fresh air. We are delighted to provide this wonderful space for all of our neighbors to enjoy.”

The playground provides a safe, fun, outdoor environment for children of diverse abilities and is open from dawn to dusk for the entire community.

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