On April 9, the Greater Somerset County YMCA held its 2025 Spirit Awards at Bridgewater Manor in Bridgewater, New Jersey. The event, timed during National Volunteer Month, recognized volunteers and partners who have meaningfully supported the YMCA’s mission.
Nazesh Catellona of Hillsborough was awarded the YMCA’s Leadership Award. She was honored for her consistent volunteer work and leadership, which have helped improve programs and services at the Y. This award recognizes individuals who take on leading roles and help move the YMCA’s work forward through action and dedication.
The awards ceremony brought together donors, staff, volunteers, and local officials to recognize those who support the Y’s efforts to strengthen communities. David M. Carcieri, President and CEO of Greater Somerset County YMCA, thanked everyone who contributes time, money, and effort to help the Y serve thousands of individuals every year.
The Spirit Awards honored individuals and groups across various categories. Dean Capizzi of Basking Ridge received the Youth Award, Angela DellaVentura from Plainfield was recognized with the Adult Award, and the Walpow Family of Warren received the Family Award.
Asha Gurunathan of Princeton received the Active Older Adult Award for her engagement and support within her community. The Group Award went to the Strategic Planning Task Force, which includes Jesenia Brown, John Cassimatis, Danielle Lumby, Catherine Millet, Kim O’Loughlin, and Kathy Timko. Members of this group come from Hillsborough, Morristown, Far Hills, Manville, Princeton, and Beach Haven.
Two people received the Ray of Light Award: Kathleen Pool Adamik of Mendham and Mario Perrotti of Basking Ridge. The Westfield Foundation of Westfield received the Community Partner Award for its support of YMCA programs. Greg Romano of Bernardsville earned the Board Leadership Award.
The Philanthropy Award went to Jacke and Hank Schram of Mendham for their financial support and involvement in YMCA programs. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Hugh Fitzpatrick, who formerly lived in Princeton but now lives in Baltimore, Maryland.
During the event, Lisa LaVecchia, Chair of the Board and the Annual Campaign, gave an update on fundraising efforts. The YMCA is working toward a $1.5 million goal to support its Annual Campaign. These funds help offer financial assistance and keep programs open to all.
The money raised goes toward childcare and camp scholarships, programs for cancer patients such as LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA, swimming and water safety lessons, and enrichment activities for people with special needs. It also supports job readiness efforts through the Career Corner program and social opportunities for families affected by autism through Saturdays in Motion.
Greater Somerset County YMCA serves nearly 30,000 members across seven branches: Basking Ridge, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Hillsborough, Plainfield, Princeton, and Somerville. The organization employs over 1,000 staff members and works with over 1,600 volunteers annually.
The Y focuses on offering services to people of all backgrounds, especially those who are under-resourced or going through financial hardship. It provides scholarships for programs, membership assistance, and access to health, education, and community services.
Nazesh Catellona’s Leadership Award represents what the Y values most—action, service, and consistent involvement. Her work, along with the efforts of every honoree, helps the Y meet its goal of strengthening the community through connection, wellness, and opportunity.
