Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges Names New Development Director for Special Events

By: Mollie Shauger | Friday, August 29, 2025 | Leadership

Alexandra Guadagno

LIVINGSTON, NJ – The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, a leading non-profit organization serving Bergen, Essex, and Sussex counties, announces the appointment of Alexandra Guadagno as the new Director of Development, Special Events. In her new role, Guadagno will be responsible for the planning, organizing, and execution of high-impact fundraising events to support the Y’s mission and goals. 

She assumed the role on Aug. 18, succeeding former Director of Annual Giving and Special Events, Nicholas Hohn.

“I’m excited to join the YMCA and create events that not only celebrate our vibrant community but also help expand the Y’s reach and deepen its connection with those we serve. There’s something incredibly powerful about creating moments that unite people around a shared purpose, and I’m thrilled to be part of an organization where every event can make a real difference,” said Guadagno. “I look forward to building strong relationships with our members, partners, and supporters as we work together to advance the Y’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.”

Guadagno draws inspiration from the Ys mission and its rich legacy of service, which she experienced firsthand as a child attending the YMCA in Douglaston, Queens, where her grandmother worked part-time. “I fondly recall spending time at the facilities, engaging in activities until my parents picked me up after work. I enjoyed all the activities the Y offered and playing with the other children,” she noted.

Guadagno brings a wealth of experience in planning and executing high-impact events that elevate brand presence and deepen stakeholder engagement. Her background includes development roles at the American Heart Association and the Palm Beach Police & Fire Foundation, where she managed galas, board meetings, golf outings, and large-scale community programs. 

A resident of Ledgewood, NJ, Guadagno holds a degree in Strategic and Organizational Communications from West Virginia University. She’s known for her strategic approach, attention to detail, and ability to build strong donor and volunteer relationships.

Among her first responsibilities as the Director of Special Events, Guadagno will oversee the Metro YMCA’s 31st Annual Golf Tournament on Sept. 15 at Montclair Golf Club in West Orange. This longest-running fundraising event raises thousands of dollars annually for the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, supporting the 1 in 4 individuals who rely on financial aid to participate in Y programs.

She is also planning the Y’s second annual Sporting Clays event set for Oct. 27 at Hudson Farm in Hopatcong, which aims to raise funds for the Sussex County YMCA’s free programs and financial assistance fund.

Guadagno steps into the role as the Metro Y is experiencing a nearly 40 percent increase in financial assistance applications. As a nonprofit, the Y relies on donations from the community throughout the year to help fund the financial assistance program.

“We are excited to welcome Alexandra to the Metro YMCA of the Oranges and the Development team. Her proven expertise and passion for developing and implementing memorable and successful special events will be a great addition to our organization as we expand the impact of the Y,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges.  

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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, Hackensack, 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 $2.8 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.