History

There’s no organization quite like the YMCA

In 1886, we were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association, but today, we are The Y. An association that values and is made stronger by, its diverse people. We stand for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility — For a better us. We are committed to creating equal opportunity for all regardless of gender, age, disability, income, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive culture in which our mission, core values and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the areas’ leading 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, the Summit Area YMCA serves more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services in an area spanning the New Jersey communities of Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling, and Summit. Our history is rooted in working side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

Historical Timeline:

1886 – The Summit YMCA was founded
1912 – The Summit YMCA moved from Springfield Avenue to its current Maple Street location
1953 – The Lincoln YMCA merged with the Summit YMCA
1989 – Renovated the Summit YMCA 
1995 – Opened Berkeley Heights YMCA
2005 – Summit Child Care merged and became The Learning Circle YMCA
2008 – Became the first DIG Innovation Network YMCA in the State of New Jersey
2008 – Launched Endowment Campaign
2011 – Celebrated 125 years of service to the community
2020 – Opened the new Berkeley Heights YMCA at 59 Locust Street
2023 – Celebrated 100 years of Summit Seals Swim Team