The History of Fairview Lake YMCA

• Since our founding in 1915 we have wanted to help make the world a better place, but too many children are unprepared to take their place as good citizens, good employees, good parents. With that in mind, our programs have and always will be structured to raise self-esteem, teach values, self-reliance, and leadership skills.

• In 1915 Colonel Austin Colgate brought fifteen boys from the Oranges to our shores in 1915 to enjoy the great outdoors.  Since that time we have never closed - not for World War I, the Depression, or World War II.
  
  
• Fairview Lake Camps is part of a larger organization, a branch of the Metro YMCAs of the Oranges and chartered by the YMCA of the USA. Other branches are situated in Maplewood, Livingston, East Orange, and Sussex County. As part of the largest YMCA in New Jersey, we have an opportunity to impact the lives of tens of thousands of people.
  
  
• Many things have changed since our founding 93 years ago but a commitment to excellence in camping, concern and love for children and our environment, and an understanding that the values we teach our children are an anchor throughout their personal and professional lives hasn’t changed – That’s who we are!!
  
  
• Fairview Lake YMCA Camps & Conference Center is proud of its history and the longstanding traditions that continue to get passed from generation to generation.  Fairview Lake YMCA continues to have a positive impact
  on the lives of the people we serve. 
  
  
• Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is a place where our staff takes the time to know your name and enjoy sharing their
  love of the outdoors with you.  Our goal is that every guest quickly feels at home and part of the Fairview Lake
  family. While over 25,000 people enjoy the Fairview Lake experience each year through our summer camp,
  environmental education, conference and community programs, we pride ourselves on touching lives one at a time. 

Then....

Now....