The YMCA’s connection to America’s servicemen runs deep. During the Civil War and both World Wars, the Y operated “Y Huts” on military bases and battlefronts, places where troops could 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.
We’re proud to stand alongside our community in honoring those who have served our country. On Veterans Day, we’ll offer treats throughout the day at the Y as a small gesture of gratitude for their service and sacrifice. Thank you to all who have served, we’re honored to celebrate you, and we encourage everyone to join us in honoring our veterans and showing appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025, 9:15 AM
VILLAGE GREEN
The City of Summit will host its annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the war monument on the Village Green (356 Broad Street). The event will include performances by the Summit Chorale, remarks from Navy SEAL Matt Bitter, 1st Lt. Mitchell Horn, Councilwoman Delia Hamlet, and Mayor Dr. Elizabeth Fagan, and a moving tribute to all Summit veterans. As part of the morning’s celebration, we’ll be providing refreshments on the Village Green for all attendees following the ceremony.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025, 12:00 PM
VFW
Over in Berkeley Heights, the community is also invited to a Veterans Brunch at 12:00 PM at the VFW (15 Locust Ave) right next door to the Berkeley Heights YMCA, another wonderful opportunity to come together and thank those who have served.
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.
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. To enroll, present your military ID, discharge papers, or other proof of service to our Member Service Team, and we’ll set you up with a reduced rate membership that’s good for you and your family.
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.
We’re here to help! To learn more, contact Josh Diorio, Senior Director of Membership at josh.diorio@thesay.org or 908-273-3330.
