The Ocean County YMCA has been serving the Ocean County community for nearly 50 years, and continues to work every day to advance their cause to strengthen community through their three main areas of focus; youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

In January 2015, the extremely dedicated Board and Staff at the Ocean County YMCA were tasked with finding a new CEO to lead the organization. Knowing the Foundation had experience in the executive search process, the OCYMA Board asked for their help. The result is Peter Rosario, who began his work as CEO in July 2015.

Pete quickly proved himself to the Board, their members, the community and to our Foundation. The Board Chair at the time, Jonathan Petro and Peter set out a strategic plan to upgrade their physical location. We believed this team was the right team to create a YMCA that would become the health and wellness hub for Toms River and Ocean County. The Foundation offered a $125K Challenge Grant in December 2015 and by June 2016, Pete and his team had raised $140K!

Today, the OCYMCA has an inviting welcome center, upgraded locker rooms, new floors, and a proud staff. Pete Rosario was also elected as the Co-Director of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation endowed Toms River Family Health and Support Coalition. In less than a year, he has brought the OCYMCA to the table as a key leader in the community and in New Jersey.

The Ocean County YMCA believes its communities are stronger when everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. Their policies, practices and programs must advance their organizational commitment to diversity and inclusion. They must sustain support for newcomers and immigrants, in partnership with colleagues at Ys in 120 countries. They must ensure all people – across all dimensions of diversity – feel welcome and valued as part of the Y family. 

Systemic racism, hate and violence strike against the very core of the YMCA’s Mission that everyone is entitled to build a healthy Spirit, Mind, and Body. The Ocean County YMCA stands with all of their neighbors as ONE to seek justice, unity, peace, and the eradication of systemic racism.