Our Mission Statement - The Metro YMCAs of the Oranges enriches the lives of the children, families and communities we serve, through programs that build spirit, mind and body, welcoming all people, in an environment nurturing positive values.

A Letter from the Desk of Helen Flores
These are some really trying times. It is hard to believe that one year ago so many more of us were working and had incomes, now people are looking for jobs, thinking about new careers and cutting back on expenses where ever they can. Of course that is advisable and probably the only way to survive until this fiscal crisis passes us and I am sure it will pass. But with all these issues comes tremendous amounts of stress, how will I pay all my bills, when is the car insurance due, my kids need new clothes, stress and choices abound. Stress is a major risk factor in heart disease and high blood pressure, two of the most common and sometimes fatal illness that face Americans. I am concerned that when trimming expenses you may consider cutting out your membership at the Y. Let’s be honest that will not be good for the Y but more importantly that will not be good for your health. One way to combat the side effects of stress is through exercise. If you are to take care of your family then you need to keep your health and outlook in a positive mode. It is a proven fact that exercise reduces high blood pressure and also helps improve your cardio function. So trim what is necessary of course, but be careful not to do more damage to yourself and your family in the long run. Try our convenient bank draft method of payment. For just about $2.00 a day your entire family can enjoy a healthy lifestyle just by paying monthly. Remember we are open seven days a week and there is no limit on the amount of times you can visit our YMCA. So keep the oxygen flowing to your brain through exercise and make the best decision you can to either get healthy or stay healthy at the West Essex YMCA, we love having you here.

See you at the Y,
Helen