Unsung Hero: Edward Anderson Retires After 20 Years At Montclair YMCA

By Lee Haberman

If you were to look up a description of the phrase "unsung hero," there's a good
chance you'd see a photo and bio of Edward Anderson next to it. Anderson — the Montclair YMCA's vice president of finance since June 1991 — enjoyed his final day on the job Friday after two decades of dedication and service to Montclair and the surrounding community. Anderson is retiring, moving on to spend more time with family and to travel abroad.

During his tenure at the Montclair "Y," as it's more commonly known, Anderson
has overseen the growth of the non-profit from a $2 million to a nearly $10 million entity. He's also overseen the construction of the pools, the renovations of the locker room, the purchase of the Geyer Family Center YMCA, and an overall growth in membership to more than 11,000 members.

The youngest of nine children, Anderson moved with family from North Carolina to New Jersey in search of a better education. His perseverance earned him his degree, and he went to work in New York City, gaining valuable experience working
for financial and insurance brokerage firms for over 10 years before the opportunity
at the "Y" presented itself.

"I knew I wasn't cut out for the corporate world," said Anderson. "It just wasn't my thing and little did I know that answering an ad in the newspaper would be an answer to my dreams."

To spend any time with Anderson is to understand exactly why he's been a perfect fit at the "Y" for so many years. He's been described as "the calm in a storm" by his peers. His demeanor is one of an extremely kind, soft-spoken, and wise gentleman,
and his spiritual foundation has him firmly grounded, no matter the challenge.

"All I ever really wanted to do was to make a difference. To touch people's lives," he said with conviction. "The opportunity to do that presents itself to me on a daily basis. This job has not been a job at all; it's been a hobby of mine that I've been able to share with this extended family we call the YMCA."

When asked what he found most gratifying about being a part of the "Y" for so
many years, Anderson didn't hesitate at all. "We offer so many programs and outlets for so many families in Essex County. Many parents are struggling to get by and we're able to offer them scholarships that are used in various ways," he said. "To hear parents tell us what it means to them to have a safe place to bring or leave their children is to understand how we impact lives and make a difference. That's really what matters most."

With just a few more hours left in the office, it seemed that everyone still wanted
and needed a piece of him before he left for the day. "It's great to feel wanted and
appreciated," said a smiling Anderson. "I couldn't ask for anything more in a job than what this place has given me. It's been a pleasure to serve the people of this community. I encourage everyone to find something they're passionate about and make a difference."

Just like Edward Anderson has for the past 20 years.