Metro YMCA of the Oranges Marks 30 Years of Signature Golf Tournament

By: Mollie Shauger | Friday, October 4, 2024 | Financial Assistance

Event Co-Chairs Stuart Vorcheimer and Susan Ascher

LIVINGSTON, NJ - The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges held its 30th Annual Golf Tournament on Sept. 16 at Montclair Golf Club, raising a record-breaking net total of $167,000 for the Y for All Fund. This fund is dedicated to making YMCA programs more affordable for individuals and families facing financial hardship. Of the total, $67,100 was raised for Y Camperships, which provide essential support to one in four kids who rely on financial assistance from the Y to attend camp each year.

"We had a wonderful day coming together to support a significant cause. Thanks to the generosity and support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and participants, we exceeded our fundraising goal and set new records. This success will allow more community members to benefit from the Y’s programs and services," said Dan Elwell, Chief Development Officer for the Metro YMCAs.

Over the past three decades, the Golf Tournament has evolved into the most significant and enduring fundraising event for the Metro YMCAs, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and competition while championing the Y’s mission. Throughout its history, the event has raised over $4.5 million. 

This year’s Golf Committee was led by Co-Chairs Susan Ascher, who founded the tournament 30 years ago, and Stuart Vorcheimer, along with members Daniel P. Elwell, Sr., Ted Foung, Richard K. Gorab, Daren Phil, and Peter Tanella. Notably, Ascher will be stepping down as Co-Chair after this milestone event. During the post-golf reception, she was honored with the Kenneth A. DeGhetto Philanthropic Award for her leadership.

"Not only has this wonderful event raised over $4 million, but it has also raised awareness of the Metro YMCA’s mission and impact on the communities it serves,” said Ascher. “I am honored to receive the Ken DeGhetto Award and thank Metro YMCA President and CEO, Rick Gorab, and the entire Y Board for this recognition.”

"Celebrating 30 years is a true reflection of Susan’s steadfast commitment, the enthusiasm of our Golf Committee, and the unwavering support from all our participants," said Co-Chair Stuart Vorcheimer. "We’re thrilled to mark this milestone and look forward to many more years of excellent events."

Optimum served as signature sponsor for this year’s event. Presenting sponsors included Eastman Companies, NAI James E. Hanson, Russo Development, Suburban Consulting Engineers, Inc. and Vericon Construction. Tournament Sponsor was McMullen Foundation. Eagle Sponsor was Mandelbaum Barrett, Attorneys at Law. Additional sponsors included Bederson LLP, Citrin Cooperman, Dale Group, First Student, Great American Insurance, Holy Name Medical Center, Jarmel Kizel Architects & Engineers, Life Fitness International, Peapack Gladstone Bank, Valley Bank, Provident Bank, The Ruhl Family, The Ascher Group Leadership, NJM, Haven Savings Bank, and ILA-Local 1.

Attendees enjoyed an afternoon of golf, lunch, and a post-golf reception and auction, with an inspirational presentation on the Y’s impact on the community. 

The Y for All Fund helps families suffering from loss of income, medical bills, or other stressors. Anyone is welcome to apply for funds, which can be used to reduce the cost of life-changing programs like child care, memberships, or summer camp at the Y. Approximately one in four children in our child care and camp programs rely on financial assistance. To learn more visit metroymcas.org.

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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.