The Sewickley Valley YMCA recently celebrated a significant milestone with a very special member of our community, Mr. Brian Berry. Brian has dedicated 50 years of service to our Y. During our Family Fun Day event, family, friends and community gathered to honor Brian’s journey with a heartfelt tribute video and, of course, a cake to mark the occasion. It was a day filled with smiles and stories that reflected Brian’s decades-long impact on the YMCA and the countless lives he’s touched.
Sports and Friendship Begin a Journey
For Brian, the YMCA has always been a home away from home. It all started in 1969 when his family moved to the area from Ambridge. As Brian recalls, “It was a place where all my friends were going, and I liked to play a lot of sports, so I joined.” His early days were filled with both hard work and fond memories, like selling mints and stuffing envelopes to earn his membership and help out the Y staff.
Witnessing Transformation at the YMCA
At the time Brian joined the YMCA, there was only the Large Gym and a basketball court in the Hunter Gym. Reflecting on these early days, Brian recalled how people once stayed in the Y’s 10 single rooms for $50 a night. From the Large Gym and the Hunter Gym to now offering diverse spaces and programs, including child care spaces, a wellness center, aquatics facilities and more—Brian has watched the YMCA grow alongside the community.
A Legacy of Giving Back
When asked about the most rewarding part of his service, Brian doesn’t hesitate: “The most rewarding part has always been giving back and helping the children in my programs and the adults that come through these doors.” His dedication to the Y and his passion for new activities have remained steadfast through the years. As he puts it, “Whatever new thing comes along, I’ll do it. That’s a big part of who I am.”
Advice for Future YMCA Staff and Members
Brian’s advice for those embarking on a journey at the YMCA is simple but powerful: “Always give 100% of yourself. Love who you are and what you do, and it will come back to you.” His YMCA experience has deeply shaped him both personally and professionally, helping him grow into the kind, caring person beloved by so many today.
Favorite Memories and People Who Made an Impact
Throughout his 50 years, Brian has been involved in countless activities, from running clubs and racquetball to cross-country skiing and more. He treasures these experiences and is quick to acknowledge the people who have shaped his YMCA journey, like Joan Fallen, Stan Pittman, and CEO Trish Hooper. It’s clear that his community spirit runs deep. His bonds with YMCA members and staff are built on years of shared goals and memories.
A Message of Kindness and Community
The YMCA’s mission of strengthening the community aligns perfectly with Brian’s own life philosophy: “To me, this means being the best you can be, always giving back, and helping someone in need no matter how big or small. I live this every day.” As he encourages future YMCA staff and members to embrace their own unique gifts and give back, his legacy of kindness and service shines through.
Looking to the Future
After 50 years, Brian isn’t done yet. With a heart still full of passion, he looks forward to many more years of service. As he says with a smile, “I have fifty more years ahead of me and that, my friends, is the beauty of who I am.”