Stronger Together for Seniors

YMCA of the Jersey Shore (the Y) and Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey (CVCJ) are merging effective today to expand support for older adults in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties.

The merger unites two mission-driven nonprofits with a shared commitment to helping people thrive at every stage of life. By coming together, the two organizations will reach more vulnerable older adults while building on decades of service to local communities.

"This merger represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen and expand services for older adults while preserving the volunteer spirit and personal connections that have defined CVCJ for decades," said Y President and Chief Executive Officer Laurie Goganzer. "Our Y has always served seniors with wellness, social and prevention programs. Together with CVCJ, we are creating an even stronger network of support that helps seniors remain engaged, independent and connected to their communities."

More Support, Greater Impact

For more than 30 years, CVCJ has provided an array of free supportive services with a team of caring volunteers. Services include transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping assistance, friendly visits, therapy dogs, reassurance calls and other practical support that reduces isolation and enhances quality of life.

"As demand for services continues to grow, this partnership positions us to reach more older adults and strengthen the support systems they rely upon every day," said CVCJ Executive Director Bob Scott. "Joining the YMCA ensures that our mission of helping seniors age with dignity, independence and connection will continue to thrive for years to come."

The integration advances the Y’s commitment to wellness, mental health, aging needs and social connection while ensuring continuity for existing CVCJ participants and volunteers. Programs and services will continue without interruption as the organizations work together to meet growing community needs. CVCJ will integrate within the existing YMCA Counseling and Social Services branch, expanding a variety of behavioral health support opportunities for seniors through safe, confidential services of the Y that have strengthened family life and individual growth for over 50 years.

Building on a Legacy of Service

Since 1874, the Y has been serving individuals and families through programs focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Keeping aging adults healthy in spirit, mind and body has been a core focus of Y programs. The addition of CVCJ's care-giving services and active volunteer network advances the Y’s ability to support the most vulnerable older adults who are often homebound and disabled.

“YMCA of the Jersey Shore has always looked for opportunities to expand our impact where the need is greatest,” said Chief Volunteer Officer Michael A. Wright. “By welcoming CVCJ, we are building on a shared commitment to service while extending critical support for older adults across the region.”

Collectively, the Y and CVCJ will serve more than 65,000 people annually across three counties, employ more than 1,400 team members, engage approximately 1,800 volunteers and collaborate with more than 100 community organizations, schools, healthcare providers and civic partners.

About YMCA of the Jersey Shore
The YMCA of the Jersey Shore is a cause-driven nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Based in Shrewsbury, NJ, we serve 65,000 people annually in Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. From lifesaving swim lessons and child care to mental health support, chronic disease prevention, and care for seniors, we offer programs that uplift people of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. With a legacy of more than 150 years of service, we’re proud to be named a Top Workplace in New Jersey since 2022 by NJ Advance Media. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.

About Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey

Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey is a non-profit, interfaith agency dedicated to assisting the frail elderly with varied support including medical transportation, friendly visits, pet therapy, shopping assistance and respite care, so seniors can remain living independently in their own homes. CVCJ relies entirely on community support and volunteerism. Learn more at https://caregivervolunteers.org/.