YMCA of Montclair to Honor Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center at 1891 Gala 

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The YMCA of Montclair will honor Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center at its 1891 Gala on November 6, 2025 at The Valley Regency in Clifton. This year’s event will also launch the Y’s yearlong centennial celebration of the Park Street YMCA.

“Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center has been a steadfast partner in advancing the Y’s mission of strengthening community through health and wellness,” said Buddy Evans, President and CEO of the YMCA of Montclair. “It’s an honor to recognize Mountainside at our Gala for the care they deliver every day and for the collaborative spirit that makes our community stronger.”

The YMCA of Montclair and Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center share a purpose and passion for building a healthier community. This collaboration has addressed critical health and wellness needs in the community for more than a decade through health fairs, education, and screening programs.

“Our partnership with the YMCA of Montclair strengthens the health of this community where it matters most: close to home,” said Tim O’Brien, CEO and President of Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center. “By combining the YMCA’s trusted reach with our clinical expertise, we’re expanding access to preventive care, screenings, and wellness education so more neighbors can live healthier lives.”

The 1891 Gala will also mark the kickoff of the YMCA’s centennial celebration, honoring 100 years of the Park Street YMCA. Since opening its doors in 1926, the Park Street branch has been a cornerstone of Montclair, welcoming people from all walks of life.

“Since opening our doors in 1926, the Park Street YMCA has been an enduring pillar, evolving to meet the changing needs of every generation,” said Chief Volunteer Officer Jack Pitts of the YMCA of Montclair. “Our Y has anchored countless neighbors, bridged gaps and strengthened our community for 100 years, and we are committed to continuing this mission for the next century.”

Proceeds from the 1891 Gala benefit the YMCA’s Financial Assistance and Cause-Driven Programs Fund. This vital support ensures children have safe and nurturing environments to learn and grow, families find the support they need to be healthy, and neighbors come together, empowered to reach their full potential.

The special guest hosts for this year’s Gala are Jeh Johnson, longtime Y member and former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, and Liz Samuel, actress, producer, and host of Montclair Story Salon. Montclair’s own DJ Prince Hakim returns as the evening’s entertainment. The Gala is co-chaired by John and Kristin Fette and Izumi Hara and David Koschik. Izumi Hara and David Koschik are also this year’s 1891 Gala event sponsors.

“Serving as Board Chair gave me the opportunity to witness the Y’s incredible power to transform lives,” said Izumi Hara. “Sponsoring the 1891 Gala is a way for me and my husband Dave Koschik to help ensure that impact continues. As we honor Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center and celebrate the Park Street YMCA centennial, we’re also looking ahead — committed to shaping the next 100 years of service to our children, families, and communities.”

The Y would also like to thank our generous gold sponsors John and Kristin Fette, Hackensack Meridian Mountainside Medical Center, and Rao's Homemade.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or to donate, visit montclairymca.org/1891gala/.

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ABOUT THE 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.