The Alternative Press

The Summit Area YMCA is one of the largest not-for-profit organizations in the Summit area. Its mission is to provide programs incorporating the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility that builds spirit, mind and body for all. The Berkeley Heights, Springfield and Summit branches offer programs for families and individuals that includes aquatics, fitness and wellness, day camp, sports, youth development, after school care, sports, teen leadership, and enrichment and recreational activities. In addition, the Y's Community Development department includes the Black Achievers and Latino Achievers program, community wellness lectures and health screenings. The Learning Circle YMCA is an early childhood development center that offers full day care for ages six weeks through kindergarten. Each year, through the Y Cares Financial Assistance program, the Y raises monetary resources needed to assist families who are experiencing financial difficulties giving them the opportunity to participate in Y programs. For more than 120 years, the Y has been meeting the physical, social and spiritual needs of the communities it serves including Springfield, Millburn, Short Hills, Summit, New Providence, Berkeley Heights, Gillette, and Stirling.