The YMCA’s connection to America’s service members runs deep. From the Civil War through both World Wars, the Y served troops at home and abroad, and its “Y Huts” gave soldiers a place to rest, write home, worship, and find a moment of peace. For millions of soldiers, the YMCA became a home away from home. When the wars ended, many veterans found their way back to the Y to rebuild their health, restore their spirit, and rediscover community. That legacy continues today, as the Y remains a place where those who’ve served can stay strong in body, mind, and spirit.
This Veterans Day, we’re saying thank you to the veterans who make our community stronger. Join us at either Y location on Wednesday, November 11.
SUMMIT YMCA
ALL DAY
Stop by the parlor anytime for a goodie bag and refreshments.
BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA
12:00 TO 1:30 PM
Join us for a veterans lunch.
Thank you for your service. We’re proud to be your Y.
At the Y, we believe wellness is more than physical, it’s about connection, purpose, and community. Every visit is a choice to keep moving forward, to stay strong, connected, and inspired.
In this heartfelt story, Vietnam veterans Thomas and Jim share how the Y continues to be a vital part of their lives long after their service. For Thomas, exercise is essential to staying alive and active after serious health challenges from Agent Orange exposure. For Jim, returning to the Y after medical treatments means reconnecting with a community that feels like home. Through movement, friendship, and encouragement, they’ve both found strength, hope, and belonging within the Y’s walls, a reminder that the Y isn’t just a gym, it’s a lifeline.
For Navy veteran Pat Hurley, the path to better health began with connection. Years of flying as a Navy pilot left him with lasting back and joint pain that made it hard to stay active. When he turned to the Summit YMCA, he found a community ready to help him take the next step.
After years of encouragement from instructor Jay Abate, Pat joined the Dumbbell Debacle class and quickly discovered that it was more than just a workout. The Y met him where he was, offering adaptable exercises, patient guidance, and the kind of support that keeps you coming back.
Through consistency and connection, Pat found real progress and a renewed sense of confidence. His story reflects what the Y stands for every day: helping people of all backgrounds grow stronger, live healthier, and find community in the journey.
Whether you’re a veteran, on active duty or in the reserves, we want to acknowledge your service and return our appreciation by offering free and reduced membership rates for members of the military.
To qualify for Veteran’s membership rate, you must have received an honorable discharge from active duty that includes dates of service. The Veteran must also meet the standards as outlined in NJ State Law, and live in the SAY’s service area that includes Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling, and Summit.
The Summit Area YMCA offers a Military Outreach Initiative to address the needs of families of deployed military personnel who live far from a military installation and require access to child development, family strengthening, and health and well-being programming. Eligible military families and personnel include active duty or deployed personnel of the Armed Services, their spouses and families (dependent children). To enroll, present your military ID or other proof of service to our Member Service Team.
To qualify for a Disabled Veterans Membership, you must have received an honorable discharge from active duty that includes dates of service. In addition, the Veteran must be receiving at least a 10% disability compensation from the US Department of Veterans Affairs, meet the standards as outlined in NJ State Law, and live in the SAY’s service area that includes Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling, and Summit. To enroll, present your military ID, discharge papers, or other proof of service to our Member Service Team. Not applicable for Outdoor Pool or All Access Memberships. Current Service members who do not have an honorable discharge as outlined are not eligible.
The following documents will be needed to prove this service occurred. Please provide a copy to Member Services or email to josh.diorio@thesay.org :
