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Mother’s Day 5K Returns in Full Force

Community Rallies to Celebrate Mothers

SUMMIT, NJ – Over 350 participants rallied at the Summit YMCA on Sunday, May 5. They celebrated the return of the Mother’s Day 5K. Last hosted in 2019 by Wharton Arts, the event promoted community health, wellness, and support for local families.

Rain or Shine: Spirits High
Despite light rain, enthusiasm remained unshaken. Participants walked, rolled, and ran through Summit’s streets while receiving cheers from friends and neighbors. Many honored their mothers, aunts, or other loved ones, which further added to the festive mood.

Voices from the Community
“I’m here to back all my mom friends who excel daily—managing family, fitness, work, and community roles,” said Maria Brugg, Summit Area YMCA Board Chair. “This event not only celebrates these outstanding caregivers but also raises crucial funds for YMCA scholarships and programs.”

Broad Community Effort
The Mother’s Day 5K showcased strong collaboration between community members and businesses. DJ Thoro, for instance, lifted spirits with lively music and entertainment.

Celebrating Achievements
DeFabio Chiropractic Spine & Sports Rehab, the lead sponsor, hosted the awards ceremony. They recognized racers from various age groups for their performance. Additionally, other businesses like Wool & Grace, F.J. Rawding A.I.A., and several others supported the event, thereby strengthening its impact.

Enduring Gratitude
“We are immensely grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and participants for revitalizing this special event,” noted Patti Stenzel, Director of Annual Giving at the YMCA. “Seeing everyone’s smiles reminds us why we do this work. We aim to uplift our community daily, which is only possible because of this remarkable support.”

For a full album of event photos, please visit our gallery.

GALLERY

YMCA NEWS

SUMMIT AREA YMCA

BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA | SUMMIT YMCA | THE LEARNING CIRCLE 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 four core values — responsibility, honesty, caring and respect — are integral to everyday operations.

Each year, as one of the area’s 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. Through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners, we are able to offer financial assistance for our programs and services to those in need.

Please note that the section of Maple Street closest to the Summit YMCA will be closed from approximately 7 AM to 11 AM on Sunday, May 5, for our Mother’s Day 5K. Please use Cedar Street to access the public lot that is next to our building.