YMCA launches their annual campaign to continue building history
Did you know, the YMCA has been part of the DNA of Canada since 1851, having pioneered many important Canadian events?
Offering the first night classes to women and immigrants, helping to found three Canadian universities, training Canadian soldiers to return to civilian life, expanding libraries to working class neighbourhoods, and pioneering youth leadership programs and street outreach are some of the programs the Y has led, according to a release dated Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020.
Perhaps the Y is better known for building Canada’s first summer camp, recognizing the importance of fitness and developing fitness leadership programs, inventing basketball and creating group swim lessons, but it’s all a part of the Y’s story.
“The YMCA has a history that I’m really proud to be part of it,” said Rob Adams, CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario. “The Y isn’t just one thing; it keeps evolving to offer what’s needed. That’s why we partner with other groups like Pathways and Connect Youth to help kids be successful or why we opened a Teen Drop-in Centre to give kids somewhere safe to go after school. It’s why we help those with chronic health conditions regain their lives and why we offer leadership skills training.”
The YMCA is a charity that provides financial assistance to about one in four of its members, according to the release. Inclusivity is a cornerstone of Y values, and no one is turned away from their services.
“Financial assistance helps kids get to camp and seniors regain their quality of life with the help of our programs. No matter someone’s stage in life, the Y has something for them. And it’s truly amazing the changes that the Y brings to so many lives. Just look at our Y Penguins program that helps kids with physical disabilities learn confidence – and for some, even medals at Paralympic games,” Adams said.
This year’s Strong Communities’ fundraising goal is $100,000. The campaign runs from Tuesday, Oct. 13 to Monday, Nov. 30, 2020, and donations may be made online at eo.ymca.ca/donate or by texting YMCA to 41010 to give $10 or $20.
The YMCA of Eastern Ontario has expressed their gratitude as again this year donations – up to $32,500 – will be matched by The Estate of Larry Gibson. Your donation will have twice the impact.
About the YMCA of Eastern Ontario
The YMCA of Eastern Ontario is a charity that provides programs and services to improve health and health outcomes, develops leaders, helps build social connections and provides safe, inclusive spaces for people of all ages. The Y is Canada’s largest provider of childcare with trademarked curricula, and offers fitness and other programs including SCUBA, Karate and Total Life Care.