The Gateway Family YMCA 2017 Annual Report

2017

HERE FOR

ANNUAL REPORT

THE GATEWAY FAMILY YMCA Serving Eastern Union And Northern Middlesex County

HERE FOR

GOOD

Every day, together with our members, we work to support kids, seniors and families with programs that protect, teach, connect, heal, nourish and encourage.

Because the Y is open to all, we ensure that everyone in the community has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

In 2017, we served over 23,600 members of the community

James Masterson Chief Volunteer Officer

through membership, programs and services.

Our members have stories that inspire us, and we hope that you enjoy what you have helped us accomplish together in 2017. They truly are the reason we do the work we do each and every day.

We have served the communities surrounding Northern Middlesex and Eastern Union Counties since 1900 and the Y is

HERE FOR GOOD

For Health. For Social Responsibility. For Good.

The Y.™ For a better us

Krystal R. Canady Chief Executive Officer

OUR

MISSION

THE GATEWAY FAMILY YMCA

Is a community-based organization rooted in Christian principles and committed to building healthy lives through programs that strengthen spirits, minds and bodies for people of all ages, religions and cultures.

PROVIDING SUPPORT

FOR ALL THE GATEWAY FAMILY YMCA

Provided over $635,000 in FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE in 2017, ensuring that EVERYONE has access to programs and services.

ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS

MEMBERS

President

James Masterson***

Laura A. Bretzger

Frank J. Lawrence

Vice President

Eugene Maxwell

Derek Chiao

John Ludington

Vice President

Karen Ensle

Anne Evans Estabrook*

Eugene Mitchell

Treasurer

Elsa M. Muniz

Paul Fernandez

Ann Zwiebel Revaitis

Secretary

Sharon Patel**

John Forrester

Calvin Sierra

Past President

Joseph R. Venezia

Catherine J. Hart

Scott K. Snowden Jr.

Philip Krevsky, Esq.

Len Vanderwende

SENIOR LEADERSHIP TEAM KRYSTAL R. CANADY*

Chief Executive Officer

MELYNDA A. MILESKI

EVP, Chief Operating Officer

DENNIS J. MCNANY

SVP, Chief Financial Officer

MARILYN D. PHINN

VP, Chief Human Resources Officer

*Y Homes, Inc. (CHDO) Board Member ** YMCA, NMTC, Inc. *** YMCA, NMTC, Inc. and Y Homes, Inc. (CHDO)

PROUDLY SERVING

Avenel, Carteret, Clark, Colonia, Elizabeth, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden, Port Reading, Rahway, Roselle, Roselle Park, Sewaren, Union, Vauxhall, Winfield Park, Woodbridge

ASSOCIATION OFFICE

144 Madison Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 07201

ELIZABETH BRANCH

135 Madison Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 DANIELLE B. CIOFFI District Executive Director LAURA A. MARGEOTES Associate Executive Director

FIVE POINTS BRANCH

201 Tucker Avenue, Union, NJ 07083 DANIELLE B. CIOFFI District Executive Director JESSICA L. SAMOLEWICZ Associate Executive Director

RAHWAY BRANCH

1564 Irving Street, Rahway, NJ 07065 RODGER D. KOERBER Branch Executive Director SHANNON L. FRANK Associate Executive Director

WELLNESS CENTER BRANCH

1000 Galloping Hill Road, Union, NJ 07083 COLLEEN A. CLAYTON Interim Branch Executive Director

WISE CENTER YMCA BRANCH 2095B Berwyn Street, Union, NJ 07083 SUSAN H. BUTLER Director

FISCALLY

RESPONSIBLE REVENUE Contributions and Grants

$1,152,954

Membership

$ 2,851,703

Childcare and Camp

$ 5,233,487

Housing

$ 2,700,146

Program

$ 1,498,947

Other

$

TOTAL REVENUE

$13,660,010

222,773

EXPENSES Program Expenses

$10,639,911

Supporting Expenses

$ 2,364,452

Transfer to Reserves & Financial Assistance

$

TOTAL EXPENSE

$13,660,010

*2017 unaudited Financial Statements, excludes subsidiaries

655,647

GROWING STRONGER TOGETHER STRATEGIC PLAN FOR THE GATEWAY FAMILY YMCA

We are part of a larger movement anchored in more than 10,000 neighborhoods nationally.

The Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. We are a powerful association of men, women and children from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion to strengthen the foundations of community with a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Though the world may be unpredictable, one thing remains certain – the Y is, and always will be, dedicated to building healthy, confident, connected and secure children, adults, families, and communities.Â

Youth Development Nurturing the Potential of Every Child and Teen We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.

Healthy Living Improving the Nation’s Health and Well-Being The Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage good health and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests.

Social Responsibility Giving Back & Providing Support to Our Neighbors Across the country, the Y helps people give back and assist their neighbors by offering them opportunities to volunteer, advocate and support programs that strengthen community. Groups of individuals, through their involvement in the Y and collaborations with policymakers, are able to address many of the most critical social issues facing our communities.

STRENGTHENING OUR COMMUNITY Our impact promise…

Strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

To begin, we’ll focus on… 

Becoming the leaders in intentionally building healthy, connected, committed and secure families in the communities in which we serve.



Reaching and maintaining long term financial sustainability to advance our mission as a vital and thriving non-profit community organization.



Gaining greater recognition as a leading cause-driven, non-profit organization in the communities we serve.

By doing so, our strategies will include… 

Creating and sustaining opportunities for families, children and teens to be together in a nurturing and healthy environment fostering a greater sense of connection to each other and to the community.



Strategically partnering and developing collaborative relationships to position the Y as a community leader and a convener on critical issues related to building stronger families, youth and teens.



Providing financial resources to support families, children and teens unable to afford Y programs and services.



Fostering a strong culture of philanthropy by developing a sound financial development plan grounded in YMCA best practices to ensure the long-term viability of the Y.



Seeking partnerships and strategic alliances with other non-profit organizations and YMCAs in our vicinity with a goal of developing operational efficiencies and revenue generating opportunities.



The Y’s cause will be evident and compelling through the stories shared, how our facilities are presented, and the welcoming manner in which our staff and volunteers engage with all those who enter our doors.

MEASURING OUR SUCCESS Increase family membership retention by 2% annually; participation in one or more Y activities will increase by 2% annually.

New partnerships with other organizations will be formed aimed at increasing the health and well-being of youth and families in our communities.

A solid communications plan will focus on the Y’s mission impact, cause, and the essential benefit it contributes to the community.

We will conduct focus groups, surveys and collect feedback from community leaders, our community and members annually to drive our program initiatives.

We will identify, cultivate and create new partnerships annually that will foster our promise to strengthen the foundations of communities.

We will evaluate our plan regularly and revise as needed for the greatest impact.

SUPPORTING OUR

MEMBERS AND COMMUNITY

2017 OUR MEMBERS

23,693 SERVICE UNITS

46,071

DIABETES PREVENTION LIVESTRONG AT THE YMCA SWIMMING

HEALTHY U

AFTER SCHOOL CARE

BASKETBALL ADULT DAY SERVICES 7TH GRADE INITIATIVE CHILD CARE GROUP EXERCISE SUMMER CAMP

SOCIALIZATION

TOGETHERHOOD

CHARITY

HOPE DANCE HOUSING HEALTHY EATING ELR HELP

TEAMWORK

COMMUNITY

SUPPORTING MILITARY FAMILIES A THANK YOU CARD

BUILDING

CONFIDENCE VIOLET’S STORY

Violet has been taking swim lessons at the Five Points Branch since she was one year old.

“Swimming has always been part of her routine, providing fun, exercise and therapy. The water, whether it is the ocean, a lake or the pool, is one of her favorite places to be active,” mom said.

Violet suffered a brain injury when she was five months old that left her paralyzed on her left side. Swimming has been a big piece of her recovery.

"The water is a great equalizer," notes her mom. "Here, therapy is fun."

Although she initially participated in group lessons, Violet has migrated to private lessons at the Y. This allows her to develop her techniques in an adaptive environment, figuring out what works best for her. Using swim lessons for both broad skill development and as a tool to work on specific areas highlighted in her competitions and swim team practices has significantly benefitted her.

Mom says that, “Violet recently competed in the Adaptive Sports

USA Swimming 2017 Junior National Disability Championships, where she took gold in the 50-yard backstroke and 50-yard freestyle and silver in the 25-yard backstroke and 25-yard freestyle for her age and class.”

Violet looks forward to resuming lessons and swim team in the fall and says that, "Swimming will always be a big part of my life."

NEVER GIVE UP DORIE’S STORY

“I am a Breast Cancer Survivor for 20 years. I had Breast Cancer three times and have conquered each occurrence. I Never Give Up!” Being a three time cancer survivor, originally diagnosed 20 years ago, Dorie is a poster child for perseverance and a positive attitude. Having struggled with her weight early on and gaining 40 pounds in college, she tried various ways to lose weight. After several cycles of losing weight only to regain it, she found success with Weight Watchers and went on to become a Leader for over 20 years before retiring. Dorie lost the 40 pounds and has kept it off for 33 years!

Dorie has spoken at numerous events for cancer survivors. She encourages early detection and not to let fear get in the way. Maintaining a positive outlook and practicing positive mental imagery has been key to her success.

More recently, Dorie credits her Y experience for personal growth, and discovered through the Mission Meltdown challenge that she enjoys taking group exercise classes.

“The YMCA has helped me become stronger and a healthier person. My membership has lasted over five years and encompasses me working out four times a week. I enjoy taking classes and meeting new friends at the same time.”

Dorie and her husband Mike enjoy active outdoor hobbies including camping, hiking and archery. They combine physical and mental fitness to achieve a positive outcome for life. The goal is to have fun! Dorie and Mike have four children, three grandsons, age 8 months, 3 years and 6 years old:

“With the help of the YMCA, I am physically fit to keep up and play with them all day long!”

STRONGER TOGETHER VALERIE’S STORY

As a young girl, Valerie has fond memories of participating in activities at the YMCA including swimming, bowling, drama, and an overnight resident summer camp. Fast forward after 36 years of service with the State Department of Children and Families, Valerie decided she needed to get more active and wanted to take swim lessons, and thought she would check out the Y. She stopped at the Wellness Center Branch and met Pat, a member of the LiveSTRONG at the YMCA program. Valerie was reading the poster describing the program for cancer survivors and Pat noticed her interest and they got to talking. In their discussion Valerie shared she was a breast cancer survivor. Pat was very enthusiastic about the program and introduced her to our staff.

Valerie did join the Y, started her swim lessons and started exercising on her own at the Five Points Branch. There were a couple of Y staff that were very helpful with her learning how to exercise in the fitness center, but she knew she needed more. Although she spent several months exercising on her own, she felt like she was floundering. She knew she would learn more and benefit from having the structure of the group. In the Fall of 2016 she joined the next LiveSTRONG at the YMCA class, a free community program in support of cancer survivors.

As a professional social worker for 36 years, she knew how critical the social support found in a group can be in getting you through the most difficult periods of your life. She knew working with other cancer survivors she would find support and be able to support others as well. The whole is stronger than the sum or the parts. Valerie found she felt very hopeful and knew being an active participant in the group she would be able to help other feel hope as well. Finding hope and giving hope was a theme which many participants shared in their experience. At a time in her life she felt she needed help, Valerie discovered a program that was designed for her. Working in a group she realized that as difficult is was for her, others had even more challenges, which helped her appreciate her own situation even more.

Although not her original goal, meeting people and making friends was a big benefit from participating in the program. She continues to stay in contact other class participants and they occasionally meet at the Y to exercise together and catch up. As a career social worker, knowing the power of social support in a group with others having a shared experience, Valerie gained a new perspective as a participant herself. Valerie wants to make sure others are aware of this great program and that they need to not “go it alone”.

LEARN, GROW THRIVE

JEN & COLIN’S STORY The Early Learning Readiness (ELR) program at The Gateway Family YMCA supports preschool children and their caregivers with the overall goal of helping children develop the cognitive, physical and social skills needed to be school ready. Each caregiver is provided an understanding of their role in early child development, skill enhancement, brain development and school readiness.

Jen and Colin began their ELR experience in October 2015 after hearing about the program through a friend at the Linden Public Library.

“Since Colin has joined the program at age 2, now age 4, he has become more independent and his socialization has improved from interacting and playing with the other children.”

During the ELR Program he is encouraged to clean up his snack and throw away his cup and plate; Jen is proud to say that he now does this at home as well.

“Colin loves the program and wishes that he could attend everyday.”

Colin will be attending full day Pre-K in September, but Jen is looking forward to continuing the program with her1 year old, Kayley.

Jen has also made connections with other parents, planning playdates and Mom’s Night Out, most recently a movie & dinner.

“It’s just as important to me to have mom friends as it is for Colin to have his friends.”

A GREATER IMPACT KEVIN’S STORY

“To see that smile on my mom’s face, when I pick her up from the Y. It’s everything to me.” ~ Kevin Wyatt The W.I.S.E. (Wellness Independence and Socialization for our Elders) Adult Social Day Services program helps adults maintain their independence and improve their quality of life through programs designed to meet their needs.

Kevin Wyatt shared the story of his mother, Lois’s participation in the W.I.S.E. Adult Day Services program in a touching video testimonial. He speaks about the reality of becoming a caregiver for his mother and the support provided by the Y’s staff members.

“It was coming here to the Y and the staff that they have here, to give me guidance and assistance to things I would never have thought of, just little things to make life easier for both my mother and myself.”

We invite you to view their story on our YouTube Channel at https://youtu.be/9eeMDdEP39k

“It makes you really understand that you’re not in this alone.”

STRONGER COMMUNITIES START WITH US In 2017, we conducted multiple surveys to measure our impact on our members and community through SEER Analytics.

These included:  Member Experience  New Member Connect  After School Child Care  Swim Lessons  Summer Day Camp

MEASURING OUR IMPACT MEMBER EXPERIENCE SURVEY INDIVIDUAL IMPACT Achievement and Health 90%

More Physically Active

93%

I Feel Better

91%

Meet Fitness Goals

Relationships and Belonging 98%

Developed Friendships with Y Members

90%

Sense of Belonging

89%

Intent to Renew

Character and Giving 87%

Opportunity to be a Positive Role Model

87%

I Have a More Positive Outlook

84%

I Have Become More Self-Disciplined

“After a serious illness that interrupted a lifetime of fitness the Y allowed me to begin rehab in a facility well equipped, clean and staffed with welcoming pleasant people.”

“I came to the Y because I was unable to walk due to arthritis. Coming to the Y gave me the ability to get out of house and I was able to walk again with confidence in me, and now I can enjoy the park and life as whole.”

MEMBER EXPERIENCE SURVEY COMMUNITY IMPACT Strengthening Community 91%

The Y Helps Strengthen the Community

87%

The Y is More Than Just a Place

Youth Development 95%

The Y is a Resource For Nurturing the Potential of Children

90%

Fosters Character Development

Healthy Living 97%

The Y is a Community Resource for Improving Health and Well-Being

81%

Leader in Promoting Healthy Habits

Social Responsibility 91%

The Y Provides People an Opportunity to Give Back and Support Their Neighbors

“I believe the Y is a reciprocal partner for the community. It promotes social ties, healthy living, and good values. I have found a few programs that the Y posted on the community board that I found helpful. The staff is very inviting, and believes in helping you to obtain your health goals. It is like a family “ “I believe that the Y is making a real positive impact in my community from the activities that are being offered and held at the Y. Often times the Y invites the City and The State to bring in people with informational programs on improving health and nutrition. The Y also introduces its members to so many different activities focused on my age group the "baby boomers" 55 plus. I simply look forward to spending time at the Y and meeting new friends. The Y is simply a blessing for many of us!”

“The YMCA not only gives our children a safe place to hang out and play in, it gives us as parents a piece of mind to know they are somewhere clean and safe where they are known by name and treated lovingly. I appreciate all the staff and the fact that our Y is the best!”

SCHOOL AGE CHILD CARE SURVEY INDIVIDUAL IMPACT Achievement and Health 81%

The Y is helping my child discover who he/she is

83%

Become more physically active

Relationships and Belonging 88%

Make new friends

86%

I feel like my child and I really belong to the Y

Character and Giving 81%

Demonstrate caring, honesty, respect and responsibility

82%

Volunteer and Help Others

COMMUNITY IMPACT Strengthening Community 96%

“I am extremely thankful for this program and all the counselors that manage it. Everyone is absolutely terrific! They do a great job with the kids and one can really tell that they really care about these kids.”

“I feel that my child has gained a lot of confidence and is now able to speak up for herself. She has broken out of shyness and is able to communicate better.”

“My son sometimes lacks confidence in his abilities when it comes to sports and interacting with other boys his age. He gets excellent grades in school, however, he shies away from anything "sportsrelated" because he does not think he is good at any sport. By going to the YMCA Aftercare and having the opportunity to play sports in the gym builds his confidence and rapport with other students .”

“I know that my child loves being in aftercare where he can interact with his classmates outside of the "defined" classroom setting. I know he has met other kids both in his age range and older. He has come out of his shell and is more comfortable in socializing with others.”

The Y Helps Strengthen the Community

Youth Development 98%

The Y is a resource for nurturing the potential of children

Healthy Living 96%

The Y is a community resource for improving health & well-being

Social Responsibility 95%

The Y Provides People an Opportunity to Give Back and Support Their Neighbors

SUMMER DAY CAMP SURVEY INDIVIDUAL IMPACT Achievement and Health 77%

The Y is helping my child discover who he/she is

75%

Gain new knowledge, skills and abilities

Relationships and Belonging 90%

Make new friends

83%

Relationships between your child and staff

Character and Giving 72%

Demonstrate caring, honesty, respect and responsibility

Meaning and Inspiration 78%

Be open to new experiences

COMMUNITY IMPACT Strengthening Community 92%

The Y Helps Strengthen the Community

“My son was able to make new friends and had something positive to say about camp every day. The staff knew him by name and made sure he had a great experience everyday.”

“The coaches are true role models, my son looked up to all of them. He learned a lot more than just sports this summer.”

“My daughter is more independent, caring, and more active since she joined the summer camp at the YMCA. She is not afraid of trying new things, has a better mindset on new techniques, and is more involved with children.”

“It made a positive impact in the fact my children were being active and creative all summer. It allowed my kids to utilize their creative and social skills during these months off of school. They continued to interact with kids and make new friends all summer. Overall, The Y and staff really provided a great positive experience for my kids. They loved it!”

“This was my child's first camp experience. She made new friends which I think will last a long time. I feel the overall camp experience was a positive impact.”

Youth Development 93%

The Y is a resource for nurturing the potential of children

Healthy Living 94%

The Y is a community resource for improving health & well-being

Social Responsibility 90%

The Y Provides People an Opportunity to Give Back and Support Their Neighbors

SWIM LESSON SURVEY INDIVIDUAL IMPACT Achievement and Health 92%

Improve his/her confidence around the water

88%

Gain new knowledge, skills and abilities

Relationships and Belonging 83%

I feel like my child and I really belong at the Y

75%

Feel a sense of belonging to this program

Health 91%

Become more physically active

Meaning and Inspiration 88%

Be open to new experiences

COMMUNITY IMPACT Strengthening Community 92%

The Y Helps Strengthen the Community

“He began at the Y pool as a baby, in my arms then progressed to weekly lessons with his childcare class and now has a weekly lesson.

He has learned that accepting challenges and trying new things, even when they are scary (like putting his face in the water or giving up his bubble) can help him to grow, learn & get stronger. He has also learned to trust his swim instructors and the lifeguards- the Y is a safe place for him.”

“My daughter has been involved with YMCA swim lessons since she has been a year old. Her continued growth and participation in swim lessons over the years has influenced her to strive to improve, achieve and accomplish all she can as part of the competitive swim team where she has been the state champion for the 8/U age group for the events of 25 Free, as well as 25 back.”

“The lessons have helped them be more confident in and around the water which enables them to be open and inclusive to others in situations that involve water based activities. It has also helped them realize with practice things they couldn't do last week/month/year now come easy to them. It has also helped them to be more active and healthier.”

Youth Development 94%

The Y is a resource for nurturing the potential of children

Healthy Living 94%

The Y is a community resource for improving health & well-being

Social Responsibility 90%

The Y Provides People an Opportunity to Give Back and Support Their Neighbors

SINCEREST THANKS TO OUR DONORS

Working with generous donors like you, the Y provides everyone the opportunity to be healthy and thrive, to connect with others, and contribute to a better community.

WORKING TO BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY TOGETHER WITH

YOU

The Y.â„¢ For a better us

tgfymca.org