Saskatoon and Regina, SK — November 18–19, 2025 — YMCA Canada’s national speaking tour, Communities That Thrive: The YMCA’s Vision for a Stronger Tomorrow, made meaningful stops in both Saskatoon and Regina last week, spotlighting the life-changing impact of local YMCAs and strengthening partnerships across the province.
Led by YMCA Canada President & CEO, Peter Dinsdale, the tour focused on deepening community connections and addressing the growing need for belonging, well-being, and equitable access to opportunity across the country.
Saskatoon: Building Belonging Through Collaboration
On November 18, the YMCA of Saskatoon hosted the speaking tour in collaboration with the Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce. The event brought together municipal leaders, community partners, and YMCA supporters for a morning of dialogue and inspiration.
“As communities across Canada face evolving challenges, the YMCA continues to be a dependable partner and innovator,” said Peter Dinsdale. “This tour is an opportunity to connect with the people who bring our mission to life, from dedicated staff and volunteers to local leaders and community partners”.
DeeAnn Mercier, CEO of the YMCA of Saskatoon, added, “Our community faces unique challenges, and events like today’s remind us how collaboration and shared purpose can drive positive change. Together, we’re ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or background, has access to programs that build confidence, belonging, and well-being”.
Regina: Celebrating Community Leadership
The following day, the speaking tour continued in Regina, where the YMCA of Regina co-hosted a community breakfast with the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce at the Conexus Arts Centre. The event welcomed local dignitaries and civic leaders to celebrate the YMCA’s enduring presence and growing impact in the region.
“Our partnership with YMCA Canada reflects a shared commitment to understanding barriers and unlocking opportunities to strengthen the Y’s impact,” said Steve Compton, CEO of the YMCA of Regina. “The Communities That Thrive tour underscores this work and our dedication to creating safe, inclusive spaces where communities can truly connect”.
Addressing a Growing Need for Belonging
Recent findings from the YMCA Connections Snapshot reveal that 50% of Saskatchewanians and Manitobans report the highest sense of belonging in Canada. However, 63% say social anxiety and discomfort are the biggest barriers to connection. Our speaking tour aims to address these insights by sparking dialogue and reaffirming the YMCA’s mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities.
About YMCA Canada
The YMCA is a charity that ignites the potential in over 2 million people annually, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. Across Canada, the YMCA delivers a wide variety of programs and services that empower people of all ages and life stages to overcome barriers and rise to their full potential. Programs include child care, health and wellness, aquatics, employment services, immigrant settlement, camps, mental wellness, and many other community initiatives that respond to local needs. Foundational to all this is the YMCA’s commitment to creating spaces and experiences where everyone feels safe, welcome, and a sense of belonging.
The YMCA in Canada is comprised of 37 YMCA Member Associations, supported by YMCA Canada, the national office, working together so all Canadians can shine on.
About the YMCA of Saskatoon
The YMCA of Saskatoon is a charitable organization that works with a wide variety of professionals and volunteers to achieve our mission: to strengthen the foundations of our community by being an organization that nurtures health, wellness, and a collective sense of community.
About the YMCA of Regina
We have made significant strides in fulfilling our mission through the expansion of high-quality, accessible programs and services. In Moose Jaw, we are celebrating the opening of a new health and fitness facility. In 2026, we will offer an additional 360 licensed child care spaces in Regina and Moose Jaw. These are exciting milestones, as we continue to create more centres of community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.
Media contact: Steve Compton, Chief Executive Officer at steve.compton@regina.ymca.ca or 306-559-7334.
