YMCA Celebrates Active Volunteer Kristine deBlasi

Submitted by Bev McCarron

Kristine deBlasi, a dedicated volunteer at the Hillsborough branch of the Somerset Valley YMCA, was recognized for her work assisting in the Child Development Center. 

deBlasi received a Volunteer of the Year award at the 26th annual Volunteer Recognition Night dinner hosted last month by the Somerset Hills YMCA. She was one of 15 volunteers who were honored for contributing their time and talents to Somerset County nonprofit organizations. 

“Kristine is the epitome of a volunteer. She is welcoming to our families and she has a great background in childcare,” Lee Santaromita, Hillsborough YMCA Child Development Center director, said. “She is here every week, and even if she is not scheduled, she will say, ‘Call if you need me.'” 

Mrs. deBlasi, a Branchburg resident, volunteers 12 to 20 hours a week. 

She was nominated by the Somerset Valley YMCA. Mrs. Santaromita presented the award at the dinner held in Basking Ridge last month. 

"I enjoy giving back to the community," said Mrs. deBlasi, who also has served as a Girl Scout leader, Bible study facilitator and volunteer at Somerset Medical Center. 

"I enjoy helping the YMCA. The kids are adorable and people who work there really show how much they care." 

The Hillsborough and the Somerville branches of the nonprofit Somerset Valley YMCA, offer childcare and learning for infants and up. Kindergarten, with wrap around child care, is also offered in Hillsborough.