Metro YMCA of the Oranges Honors Board Member for Promoting Y’s Mission

By: Mollie Shauger | Tuesday, May 20, 2025 | Leadership

From left, Marlene Waldock, the 2023 Ken DeGhetto award winner; Dan Borgna, the 2024 award winner; and Daren Phil, Chair of the Metro YMCA Board of Directors.

LIVINGSTON, NJ - The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges recently honored Dan Borgna with the Kenneth A. DeGhetto Philanthropic Ambassador Award for 2024, recognizing his exceptional contributions to promoting the YMCA’s mission.

Borgna, a resident of Rockaway Township, has been a member of the Metro YMCA Board of Directors since 2018. He has served on the Property Development and Executive Committees and chaired the Risk Management Committee. This summer, he will begin a four-year term as Vice Chairman of the Board. 

“I am truly humbled to be mentioned in the same conversation as Ken DeGhetto and the past honorees, each of whom has clearly demonstrated their commitment to uplifting others and building stronger communities,” said Borgna. “In the six years I’ve served with the Y, I can honestly say that I have never witnessed such a dedicated group of staff, administrators, members, and volunteers who all work to make each branch and program the best that it can be.”   

He is Vice President of Dale Group Insurance and Bonding, a specialized insurance brokerage based in Florham Park. His expertise has been vital in fostering strong relationships and fundraising between the YMCA and its risk management partners and insurance companies. He’s also worked diligently with Y staff in preparation for the construction of a new West Essex Y facility, to open in late 2026.

“I was thrilled Dan was chosen for this award knowing how much time and effort he contributes as a volunteer to make our Y a better and safer place for everyone,” said Daren Phil, Metro YMCA Board Chair. “Dan has been all in since joining us on the Executive Board. He gets involved and contributes in all facets of the organization and is always willing to assist in taking on more responsibilities. He is a real team player. We are fortunate to have him as a friend and member.”

Borgna's service to the community, particularly to youth, extends beyond the Y. He has worked with Mallory’s Army, an organization dedicated to ending childhood bullying and raising awareness of teen suicide. He served for six years on the Rockaway Township Board of Adjustment, where he aimed to promote community development projects such as new parks, open spaces, and athletic facilities. Additionally, he has served on the LSRP Association Risk Management Committee for over 15 years, an organization focused on cleaning up contaminated properties throughout the state.

###

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.