Metro YMCA of the Oranges Recognizes 2024 ‘Staff Member of the Year’

By: Mollie Shauger | Friday, May 16, 2025 | Leadership

Ken Riscinti, left, with Jason Kelly, Executive Director at New Milford YMCA Program Center

NEW MILFORD, NJ - Ken Riscinti, a dedicated YMCA professional who manages facility maintenance for the New Milford YMCA Program Center and two other YMCA locations, has been awarded the title of Staff Member of the Year for 2024 by the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges. This honor recognizes an outstanding employee from the Y who has demonstrated exceptional innovation, initiative, creativity, and leadership in their program area, contributing significantly to the strengthening of the community, among other criteria.

Riscinti, of Westwood, has worked for the YMCA for 37 years and currently serves as the Senior District Facilities Director for the New Milford, East Orange, and South Mountain YMCAs. In this role, he is responsible for all facility-related issues across multiple branches, overseeing day-to-day maintenance, major projects, renovations, and plant fund initiatives. 

Additionally, he manages the Y’s day and sleepaway camp sites in Harriman State Park, NY. Each spring, he faces the enormous task of preparing the camp facilities, which close for the winter, within an eight-week timeframe to welcome over 200 campers each week during the summer. Starting in April, he works seven days a week until mid-October, dedicating his weekends to the camp. 

Jason Kelly, the Executive Director at the New Milford YMCA Program Center, which oversees the Harriman Camps, praised Riscinti for his selflessness and dedication.

“Ken doesn’t talk about his work, he doesn’t ask for credit, and he does it without being asked. He does it because he wants the children in our program to have the best experience possible. He is solely focused on what is best for our branch and for our participants," Kelly said.

“In many ways, Kenny is the backbone of our facility, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly while always keeping our mission at heart,” said Leah Greene, East Orange YMCA Executive Director. “He doesn’t just manage our facilities—he protects and strengthens the foundation of our Y so we can continue to serve our members effectively.”

In addition to these day-to-day responsibilities, Riscinti advocates for the Y and its mission to provide financial assistance so more families can participate in programs like camp. In 2024, he helped to raise a total of $35,221 for the Y’s financial assistance fund.

“Being named Staff Member of the Year is truly humbling. I take great pride in helping keep our YMCAs safe, welcoming, and running smoothly for everyone who visits or attends our programs,” said Riscinti. “It’s an honor to be recognized, and I’m grateful to be part of a team that works together to serve our community every day.”

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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 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.