Two volunteers honored for services to YMCA EAST BRUNSWICK -- The Raritan Valley YMCA has named Carol Bruno and Andy Ghebrial as its volunteers of the year. The YMCA board of directors selected the pair after reviewing all the volunteers and their service hours, according to YMCA Executive Director Gina Stravic. "They're both great people, and we appreciate all the hard work they've done," Stravic said. "We hope more people step up and volunteer." Bruno was honored as adult volunteer of the year, and Ghebrial as youth volunteer during a ceremony last month that also recognized the organization's 139th year of service to the community. The Raritan Valley YMCA originated in New Brunswick but operated for many years on Dunhams Corner Road in East Brunswick until moving to its new facility on Tices Lane. Bruno, who recently retired from the East Brunswick Township Recreation Department, was instrumental in developing YMCA programs, training staff, and decorating the new facility. Ghebrial is at the facility "almost daily," serving as a playground aide, cleaning up and serving snacks. He has spent over 217 hours at the YMCA developing a volunteer work ethic and leadership skills. Stravic said the YMCA is in need of even more volunteers because of its move to the new location. It needs help in various areas, she said, including handy work and maintenance. "The construction and opening of the new Y has been a significant undertaking, and volunteers are the blood of any nonprofit organization," Stravic said in a press release. "To honor volunteers who have contributed so much time is a real pleasure." Volunteers are also needed to assist or teach youth sports and adult exercise classes, serve as school homework tutors, or sit on the committees for pool building, program or publicity. They can also help with fundraising. High school students can also meet their required community service hours by working at the YMCA. In the past, students have helped with youth programs, special events, summer camp and maintenance. - Vincent Todaro