Summer Camp Scholarship Fund Honors Legacy of YMCA Leader

By: Mollie Shauger | Monday, July 15, 2024 | News

From left, Rick Gorab, President & CEO, Metro YMCA of the Oranges, Ron Schwarz, Metro YMCA Board Member, and Tom Shara, Executive Vice Chairman of Provident Bank and former President and CEO of Lakeland Bank.

HARDYSTON, NJ - The Sussex County YMCA, a branch of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, is excited to announce the establishment of the Ronald E. Schwarz Endowment Fund for Camp Scholarship. This new fund will enable more children to attend summer camp at the Y, providing them with enriching experiences and valuable opportunities for growth. The scholarship fund honors the legacy of Ron Schwarz, a Metro YMCA Board Member and former Board Chair whose commitment to community service has left a lasting impact.

Lakeland Bank, which recently merged with Provident Bank, is honoring Schwarz with a $50,000 gift to the Y to support the establishment of this scholarship fund. Schwarz worked for Lakeland Bank for 15 years, serving in key leadership roles. 

Once fully vested, the fund will assist approximately 30 families in covering the cost of camp tuition each year. Currently, around one in four children depend on financial support from the Y to attend camp. 

Thomas J. Shara, Executive Vice Chairman of Provident Bank and former President and CEO of Lakeland Bank shared, “We are thrilled to establish the Ronald E. Schwarz Endowment Fund for Camp Scholarship on behalf of Ron Schwarz, Lakeland’s former Chief Operating Officer and longtime supporter of the Metro Y.  This scholarship is a perfect way to honor Ron’s many years of service and his unwavering dedication to the bank as well as the communities we serve. The Metro Y is a tremendous organization that positively impacts countless local families and we are proud to further support their efforts.” 

Schwarz has served 14 years on the Metro YMCA Board of Directors and was Board Chairman from 2018-2021. He currently serves on the Executive, Executive Compensation, Audit and Property Development Committees. His exceptional leadership during the pandemic ensured access to quality healthcare and supported community well-being, and his dedication and collaborative spirit inspired programs that continue to uplift lives.

“Ron has been a passionate champion for children and families in our community, and we’re proud to ensure his legacy lives on through this scholarship fund,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. “At the Y, we are committed to inclusivity and promise that no one will ever be turned away from our programs due to financial constraints. Thanks to the generous support of Lakeland Bank, we can keep that promise, making camp accessible for future generations of children in Sussex County.”

“I’m deeply honored and humbled by this recognition. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Lakeland Bank for their generous contribution in my honor. By making summer camp more accessible, we are opening doors for more youth to experience the joy, safety, and support offered by Y programs. These camps are invaluable; they provide a nurturing environment for children during the summer break, while also giving parents the peace of mind to continue their work,” said Schwarz.

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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. The Metro YMCA serves 100,000+ individuals across NJ and provides more than $6 million annually in financial assistance and free programming.