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# Sewickley Valley YMCA History
## Early founders play a crucial role in shaping the YMCA's mission and principles
1844
In response to the social challenges faced by young men during the Industrial Revolution, George Williams, along with a group of like-minded individuals, establishes the YMCA in London, England.
1851
Inspired by success stories of the YMCA overseas, in Boston, Massachusetts, retired Sea Captain Thomas Sullivan establishes the first YMCA in the United States.
1853
Anthony Bowen, a former slave who purchases his freedom from a plantation owner, establishes the first YMCA for African Americans in Washington, D.C.
EST. 1894
130 Years
In 1894, the Sewickley Valley YMCA opens its doors.
Ever since, the Sewickley Valley Y is deeply rooted in community service, growth, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
## The Gilded Age
The Gilded Age marked a period of rapid industrialization, economic growth, and transformative social changes.
Pittsburgh, driven by its booming steel industry and other industrial advancements, is a pivotal player.
Our neighborhoods embody the era, including prosperity, challenges, and societal shifts.
1894
## volunteers come together
On April 1, 1894, a handful of volunteers come together to form the Young Men's Christian Association of the Sewickley Valley. In December 1894, a lease is made with the First National Bank. Initially located on Beaver Street, the YMCA aims to support young men's growth and spiritual development. Operating from the leased facilities on the second and third floors, the second floor contains offices, reading rooms, assembly rooms and parlors. The third floor is dedicated to a gymnasium. By year-end, the Y has 322 members.
1898
## Community-Led Growth
Not long into the journey focused on improving lives and well-being, it becomes clear that the two floors leased on Beaver Street are inadequate to handle the needs of Sewickley Valley YMCA members. In response, a building fund is established, collecting $10,000 (the equivalent purchasing power of $370,00 today) by year-end. A lot on Beaver Street (site of Sewickley Baptist Church) is purchased for $6,100 ($275,000 today) with these contributions.
1904
## A Gift to a Legacy
Henry Oliver's generous gift of a six-acre plot at Blackburn and Backbone Roads in 1903 sets the stage for constructing a state-of-the-art facility. On May 16, 1904, the Sewickley Valley YMCA opens its doors. The facility has a swimming pool, gym, dormitory, bowling alleys, a reading room, lobby, locker rooms, and a billiard room for its 700 members. The athletic field is used for baseball, football, tennis and quoits.
## The progressive Era
Into the 1920s, communities are characterized by social and political reform movements. Issues such as urbanization, industrialization, political corruption, and societal inequalities are top of mind.
This heightened awareness of social responsibility aligns with the YMCA's commitment to addressing social issues and promoting a healthy spirit, mind, and body.
1919 to 1928
## Changing With The Times
The land adjacent to the Y property is acquired in 1919, and includes a building used for women's programs. The Y, initially serving only men and boys, opens its facilities to girls and women in the late 1920s. This transition reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing and accommodating women's needs and interests.
## The Great Depression and World War II
Even during economic hardship and global conflict, the YMCA continues to reflect its commitment to supporting the well-being of the community.
Through these challenging times, the Y houses the homeless and focuses on the needs of military members and their families.
1929 to 1945
## Facing Challenges as a Community
During the Depression and war years, the Y evolves into a United Service Organizations (USO) Center, providing support and recreation services to United States military members and their families. The YMCA is also the leading trainer for Emergency First Aid, certifying more than 1,200 people.
In the late 1940s, the Y gives a 21-acre parcel of land to the community to create War Memorial Park.
## Post-World War II Era into the Late 20th Century
Periods of economic growth and recovery, as well as societal change, continues. The YMCA's efforts to adapt and revitalize facilities demonstrate its deep commitment to remaining a vital community institution focused on health, wellness, and community engagement.
1954 to 1979
## Evolving as an Institution
In the mid-1950s, a capital renovation campaign enables the Y to renovate its 60+ year old facility for its 1,500 members. In 1968, the first major facility addition is completed, featuring a second swimming pool, gymnasium, locker rooms, meeting rooms, and offices. At that time, the Y introduces a program initiative centered on service to the “whole family.”
## Into the Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries
Fitness is booming, family dynamics are changing, health is more holistic, and volunteerism is on the rise. Y programs expand to include more family support systems. Facility upgrades meet a growing membership base and changing needs of modern times.
1980
## Adapting and Enhancing
In the 1980s, YMCA programs expand to support a wider diversity of age groups and needs, as well as the evolving family. Child care services and more youth and teen programs are being introduced. In 1987, supporting 6,000+ members, a capital campaign renovates the 100-year-old facility. Adding amenities and ensuring accessibility, the facility features a running track, an enlarged gymnasium, a cardiovascular training area, strength training room, and meeting rooms
2004
## Connecting and Thriving
Senior programs grow, fostering active and engaged lives for the beloved aging Silent and Greatest Generations. Those with chronic diseases such as cancer, arthritis, and Parkinson's can manage symptoms and connect with others with new programs. Faith in Action launches in 2004 to provide essential resources to the community. Newly developed preschool and child care services meet modern family structures and workforce dynamics.
## In Our Contemporary Era
The Sewickley Valley YMCA continues to exhibit remarkable adaptability, shining as a beacon in the New Millennium. Embracing inclusivity and diversity, YMCA programs and services promote physical and mental well-being for all.
2014
## Extending Child Care Reach
YMCA invests $2.5 million in building renovations after extensive fundraising. With this investment, the 110-year-old facility is brought up to modern building codes and provides an exceptional learning environment for children. Child care development support and expansion is emphasized, including meeting ADA compliance requirements. This initiative extends the Sewickley Valley YMCA's service area beyond Quaker Valley, reaching Moon Area, Cornell, and Ambridge schools.
2019
## Celebrating a Legacy
Celebrating its 125th anniversary, the Sewickley Valley YMCA reflects on its impactful journey. Rooted in a promise from 1894, the Y serves 16,000 individuals, embodying its founders' vision of a better, healthier community. Grateful for the support of members, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners, the Y's steadfast mission persists: to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
2020
## Strengthening Fortitude and Well-Being
Staff and volunteers receive heartfelt recognition for their community support during the pandemic. Addressing critical needs, the YMCA starts free mini pantries stocked with food and essential pantry items in Ambridge, Leetsdale, Crescent Township, and Sewickley. In addition to food aid, the Y provides virtual fitness programs and continues to promote well-being.
2021
## Preserving Community Child Care
Our commitment to providing quality, safe child care remains at the forefront of our mission. Taking over a child care center set to close, the Sewickley Valley YMCA preserves 78 child care spaces for the community. Additionally, the Y continues to offer financial aid to ensure that families from all income levels have access to affordable, high-quality early childhood care.
TODAY, members, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners of the Sewickley Valley YMCA continue a vital legacy, nurturing healthy spirits, minds, and bodies for all. This enduring dedication propels the Y into a dynamic community institution, serving diverse backgrounds in the Sewickley Valley. Proudly shaping countless lives for over a century with the promise of more stories to unfold, the Y stands as a vibrant force, making a positive impact both in the present and the future.
### About
### Contact
### Engage
### Visit
* Sewickley Valley YMCA
  625 Blackburn Road
  Sewickley, PA 15143
(412) 741-9622
# Strengthening Our Community
As a cause-driven organization committed to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the Y is adept at recognizing, understanding, and addressing the hurdles individuals face. The Y serves as a trusted partner, providing resources, support, and encouragement. The Sewickley Valley YMCA works collaboratively with community partners to fulfill our mission of building active kids, healthy families, and strong communities.
By working collaboratively with these partners, the Sewickley Valley YMCA is able to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks to expand the reach and impact of our programs and services. Together, we create a comprehensive support system that addresses diverse needs and strengthens the fabric of the community.
We have partner opportunities for you, whether you’re interested in creating corporate partnerships to support employee wellness, community initiatives, or leading your own public program.  to learn more!
## Ambridge Area School District
## Brewer Airport Toyota
## Bruegger's Bagels
## Buddy Matthews Memorial Fund
## Calgon Carbon
## Center for Hope
## Child Health Association of Sewickley
## Clearview Federal Credit Union
## Coraopolis Memorial Library
## Cornell School District
## Encompass Health
## FedEx Ground
## Fern Hollow Nature Center
## Heritage Valley Health System
## Laughlin Children's Center
## LIFE Beaver County
## The Lindsay Theater
## Valley Care, Ambridge
## Moon Area School District
## Moon Parks & Recreation
## Moon Township Public Library
## Penguin Bookshop
## Presbyterian Church, Sewickley
## Quaker Valley School District
## Senior Men's Club
## Sewickley Academy
## Sewickley Public Library
## Sewickley Valley Community Fund
## Simpson & McCrady
## Smithfield Trust
## Standing Firm
## Sweetwater Center for the Arts
## Tapas Talks
## Union Aid Society
## Walk Coraopolis
## Youth Connect
# Team Directory
## ALWAYS READY TO HELP
Sewickley Valley YMCA, guided by a dedicated board of directors, empowers the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With more than 200 team members , we create opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and thrive.
## LEADERSHIP AND GOVERNANCE
Ensuring mission-driven oversight and the maximization of resources.
### Board of Directors
* + Maria Dorgan, Chair
  + Brad Christof
* Jonathan DiLorenzo, Esq.
* Kathleen Flannery
* Meghan Kalmar, Esq.
* + Lee Karayusuf
* Don Liskay
* Teresa Mueller
* Susan Petrak
* Micah Southwood
* J.P. Stephan
* Kirby Walker
### Chief Executive Officer
Trish Hooper
412-741-9622 ext. 111
## CREATING CLASSES, PROGRAMS, AND ACTIVITIES FOR ALL
### Aquatics
Kelly Wagner
Senior Director for Aquatics
412-741-9622 ext. 110
Paula Kwalick
Aquatic Coordinator
412-741-9622 ext. 134
Jeff Jarvis
Lifeguard Coordinator
412-741-9622 ext. 147
### Child Care
Amee Kuzniarski
School Age Child Care Director
412-741-9622 ext. 133
Cori LaChapelle
Early Child Development Director
412-741-9622 ext. 143
### Health and Wellness
Adriane Stoner
Senior Director for Health and Wellness
412-741-9622 ext. 120
Willy Cook
Health and Wellness Coordinator
412-741-9622 ext. 114
### Questions about personal fitness training?
Contact Adriane Stoner at 412-741-9622 ext. 120.
### Youth, Teen, and Family
Marc Smith
Senior Director for Youth, Teen, and Family
412-741-9622 ext. 103
## FOSTERING RELATIONSHIPS AND IMPROVING QUALITY OF LIFE
### Membership and Registration
Call 412-741-9622 ext. 105 or email membership@sewickleyymca.org for membership questions.
Chellsa Marney
Director of Membership and Community Engagement
412-741-9622 ext. 104
Lucie Phillips
Membership Engagement Coordinator
412-741-9622 ext. 102
### Need help registering?
Call 412-741-9622 ext. 121 to chat with one of our registration team members.
### Development and Communications
Amy Richardson
Director of Development and Communications
412-741-9622 ext. 108
Hassan Javed
Communication Coordinator
412-741-9622 ext. 149
### Faith in Action
Heather Ochman
Faith in Action Director
412-741-9622 ext. 135
## ENHANCING COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
### Administration and Human Resources
Roni Vilseck
Executive Administrative Assistant/HR Specialist
412-741-9622 ext. 112
### Property Management
Jim DeWeese
Director of Property Management
412-741-9622 ext. 118
# Work for the Y
Ready to embark on a fulfilling journey? Your path to making a meaningful impact starts right here at the Sewickley Valley YMCA. Explore a range of opportunities that extend across vital areas such as child care, sports, wellness, aquatics, administration, and community outreach. Being a part of the YMCA family offers:
* Meaningful work in a fun and caring atmosphere
* Purposeful application of unique talents and interests
* Opportunities for growth in a supportive environment
## BE PART OF A TIME-HONORED COMMUNITY LEGACY
Join a community  that spans more than a century, opening in 1894. The Sewickley Valley YMCA is dedicated to enhancing health and well-being, fostering positive values, and building robust relationships. Contribute to a mission-driven organization that empowers individuals and creates resilient, healthy communities.
## YOUR DAILY CONTRIBUTIONS, YOUR COMMUNITY’S WELL-BEING
Every day at the Y is a chance to make a direct impact on your community’s well-being. By joining the Sewickley Valley YMCA, you become part of a longstanding history of meaningful service and positive change. Your journey towards fulfillment and community betterment starts with us.
## Jobs at the Sewickley Valley YMCA
For more information, .​
### Looking for volunteer opportunities?
Volunteering at the Sewickley Valley YMCA is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Be a part of making a positive impact in our community.  that align with your passions and talents.