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Annual Dinner Honors Leaders, Partners and Rising Stars Across the YMCA of MEWSA
On April 30, nearly 300 friends, partners, volunteers, staff, and community leaders gathered for the YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge, South Amboy, and Piscataway’s Annual Dinner, an evening celebrating service, leadership, and community impact.
The event honored outstanding individuals and organizations whose dedication continues to strengthen the communities served by the YMCA, while also highlighting the organization’s new Strategic Plan and a year of meaningful impact across youth development, wellness, childcare, aquatics, and community support programs.
The Community Partner Award was presented to Magyar Bank for its longstanding commitment to service and philanthropy. Since its founding in 1922, Magyar Bank has remained dedicated to supporting local families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. Through the Magyar Bank Charitable Foundation and employee volunteerism, the organization has made a significant impact throughout the communities it serves. The YMCA proudly recognized Magyar Bank for its continued partnership and support of programs benefiting local teens, veterans, and families.
The Charles S. Edgar Memorial Award was presented to Rose Cushing in recognition of more than 35 years of dedicated service to the YMCA movement, including ten years as President & CEO of the YMCA of MEWSA. During her leadership, the YMCA expanded childcare and camp programs throughout Middlesex County, strengthened community partnerships, and continued to grow as a trusted resource for families across the region. Her leadership, compassion, and commitment to the YMCA’s mission have left a lasting impact on countless individuals and families.
The Barnes Community Champion Award was presented to Letitia “Tish” Coughlin for her lifelong dedication to community service and leadership. A member of the YMCA of MEWSA Board of Directors and Chair of the Childcare Committee, Tish has played an important role in supporting programs that serve children and families throughout the region. Her commitment to volunteerism and community engagement continues to make a lasting impact.
The evening also celebrated the recipients of the Malinowski Rising Star Awards, which recognize exceptional youth employees who demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the YMCA mission. Honorees included Kaleia Arrington, Ashley Erin Dunne, Uday Gupta, Jiali Torres, and Sara Villanueva.
The YMCA extends its sincere gratitude to all who attended and supported this year’s Annual Dinner. Together, the evening reflected the power of community and the shared commitment to strengthening the lives of individuals and families across Middlesex County and beyond.