Community leaders step forward to support year-round YMCA presence in West Milford
WEST MILFORD, N.J. (April 29, 2026) – The YMCA Outdoor Education Center has established a new volunteer advisory council made up of local community leaders who will support the branch through leadership, fundraising, advocacy, and strategic guidance.
These dedicated volunteers will focus on strengthening community engagement, supporting program development—including childcare, fitness, and camp—and advancing the YMCA’s mission locally.
“The YMCA has always been a place where community comes together to grow stronger—physically, socially, and emotionally,” said Buddy Evans, president and chief executive officer of the Y. “With the leadership of this advisory council, we are deepening our roots in West Milford and ensuring the Outdoor Education Center becomes a year-round destination for connection, wellness, and opportunity for all.”
The township residents appointed to the YMCA Outdoor Education Advisory Council include:
- Kristi Clave, special needs educator and community volunteer
- Justin DiMaio, chiropractor and community volunteer, West Milford Municipal Alliance
- Chris Garcia, entrepreneur, community volunteer, West Milford Rotary Club member and YMCA of Montclair board member
- Eva Hajek, demonstration chef and baker, performing arts leader
- Bill Kane, elementary school principal, Maple Road School, and community volunteer
- Brian Kitchin, superintendent, West Milford Board of Education
- Allison Lapatka, entrepreneur, professor, and donor
- Cindy LeMay, business development officer, community volunteer, and West Milford Rotary Club member
- Bob Nolan, former West Milford councilman and retired CFO of Essex Mental Health Association; Passaic County Mental Health Association board member
- Dan Trout, financial planner, youth sports coach, community volunteer, and donor
- Judy Young, office manager, Hackensack Meridian Health, and community volunteer
YMCA of Montclair board member Chris Garcia added, “This council is made up of people who care deeply about creating opportunities for others. Together, we will champion the Y’s mission, expand access to vital programs, and help ensure every individual and family feels welcomed, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
As a charitable organization, the YMCA provides financial assistance for membership and programs on a needs-based sliding scale, determined by household size and income. This support is made possible through the generosity of individuals, businesses, foundations, and government partners.
Located at 131 Germantown Road, the YMCA Outdoor Education Center first opened in 1970 as a summer camp. The facility features a lakefront, performing arts center, environmental education spaces, and a lodge. This fall, the Y will expand its offerings to include fitness classes, court sports, and childcare programs—bringing new opportunities for health, wellness, and connection to the community.
“The YMCA is committed to meeting the evolving needs of our community, and we are grateful for the volunteers who help bring our mission to life,” Evans said.
Photo Caption: Pictured left to right, front row: Allison Lapatka, Dan Trout, Cindy LeMay, Eva Hajek, Judy Young, Bill Kane; Back Row: Buddy Evans, Chris Garcia, Bob Nolan; Not Pictured: Kristi Clave, Justin DiMaio and Brian Kitchin
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About YMCA of Montclair
Established in 1891, the YMCA of Montclair welcomes all. We are a nonprofit that works to empower young people, improve health and well-being, and inspire action in and across our community. The Y offers need-based financial assistance for its programs to ensure access for all. We proudly serve Bloomfield, Bloomingdale, Clifton, Cedar Grove, Glen Ridge, Haskell, Montclair, Verona, Wanaque, and West Milford. For more information, please visit montclairymca.org.
