Local Nonprofit to Recognize Change Makers Over 55

You have most likely heard of the 40 Under Forty awards, of which our Bryan Slater and Mike Heck have been past honorees, but what about the movers and shakers a bit older than that?

The Berkshire Family YMCA decided to make sure some more seasoned members of our community get their moment, as they have opened nominations for the Changing Lives After 55 awards event.

According to the BFYMCA, the Changing Lives After 55 awards are intended to celebrate and recognize community members over the age of 55 who have made significant contributions to and achievements in the Berkshire community. The special awards will salute honorees in the areas of Education, Arts & Culture, Business, Nonprofit, Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.

The Y's intentions are to celebrate the work that often goes unheralded, and the people who have selflessly made community connections to build upon the the organizations efforts toward a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Nominees must be over the age of 55, on or before July 1, and need to have demonstrated a commitment to the Y's core values - Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility - while making significant contributions and achievements in Berkshire County.  A panel of judges will review the nominations and select individuals who best represent those ideals in each category. Nominations will be open until September 2. Nominate someone here!

Simply put, we couldn't be more excited about hosting this event! We have numerous stories of individuals over 55 giving back in big ways. We have two challenges ahead - deciding on the honorees and getting those individuals to agree to be in the spotlight. We know the people doing this work are not doing it for the recognition

Randy Kinnas, Berkshire Family YMCA CEO/Executive Director

The Changing Lives After 55 event is October 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Berkshire Hills County Club and is a major fundraiser for the Berkshire Family YMCA. It will play an integral roll in supporting their financial assistance program - the Y's promise to the community that no one is ever turned away due to inability to pay.  Click here for more information on the awards and/or sponsorship of the event, as well as to purchase tickets.