The Gateway Family YMCA Announces Branch Associate Executive Director

Union, NJ, April 09, 2014 --(PR.com)-- The Gateway Family YMCA – Five Points Branch announces the promotion of Jessica Samolewicz to the position of Branch Associate Executive Director at the 201 Tucker Avenue location in Union, NJ. According to Danielle Cioffi, District Executive Director of the Five Points Branch and Elizabeth Branch, "The Five Points Branch is excited to promote Jessica to this position. Along with a uplifting personality and extensive experience, Jessica brings fresh ideas, creative energy and a strong leadership ability to the branch.” Most recently, Jessica was in the position of Senior Director of Youth Development overseeing School Age Child Care and Summer Camp at the Five Points Branch and Elizabeth Branch. Jessica stated, “I am very humbled by this promotion and the confidence this shows in my ability to lead. I am very excited for what is to come.”

Jessica grew up locally, in Roselle Park, and graduated from East Stroudsburg University. She is on track to graduate in May from Kean University with a Master’s Degree in Special Education. Jessica’s first position at the Y was a Camp Counselor in 2007, “A professor once told me to always be open-minded because you never know where you will land and for me, that really hits home because when I first started working at the Y I never envisioned myself in this role. It’s been such a great journey so far and I’m thankful for all of the experience that I’ve gained.”

“Jessica is a distinguished leader at our branch and focused professional who is ready to help take our branch to the next level," added Danielle Cioffi, District Executive Director at The Gateway Family YMCA. The Five Points Branch just completed renovations in January, and is providing more programs for families and youth than ever before. When asked about her goals, Jessica stated, “My goal is for the Five Points Branch to be known as the best Youth and Family facility in the state. Over the last several years it’s been great to see our programming at the Y expand so much to include a variety of class choices & options for youth of any age and also their families. Looking ahead, I am most looking forward to see the Y continue to evolve into a place that embraces the entire family by offering opportunities for not only the individual but the family unit.”

The Gateway Family YMCA, formerly The YMCA of Eastern Union County, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, health and community service organization of caring staff and volunteers dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community and stands For Youth Development, For Healthy Living and For Social Responsibility. The Gateway Family YMCA impacts the community by providing quality services to people of all ages, races, faith or incomes. The Y doesn’t just strengthen bodies – it strengthens people, families and communities.

For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA – Five Points Branch, please visit www.tgfymca.org or contact the Y at fivepointsinfo@tgfymca.org or 908-688-9622.