YMCA Canada

News & Statements

  • Press Release

    The YMCA receives $9.4 million in funding to advance equity in learning 

    YMCA Canada is proud to announce $9.4 million in funding through the Government of Canada’s Supports for Student Learning Program (SSLP) to launch the YMCA’s new Youth Education Supports Program (YESP). This national initiative is designed to help youth overcome barriers to education and unlock their full potential.

    A group of young people are sitting at desks inside a classroom talking to each other.
  • Text: International Women’s Day. Image: a drawing of 5 different women representing different racial backgrounds.
    Statements

    YMCA Canada Statement on International Women’s Day 2024

    With women representing over 80% of the Canadian YMCA’s workforce and leadership positions nationally, we understand the positive impact and boundless opportunities when women and girls can reach their full potential.  

  • A group of black people are sitting on the ground and writing with markets on a big piece of white paper.
    Statements

    YMCA Canada Black History Month 2024 Statement

    Through our programs, initiatives, and partnerships, we strive to honour the legacy of Black leaders and innovators by amplifying Black voices and celebrating their achievements, while remembering that Black inclusion requires an ongoing commitment and action.

  • A young person is standing slightly turned with the sun behind her.
    Press Release

    The Y.M.C.A. Anthem Reimagined with Walk off the Earth, Focusing on Youth

    YMCA Canada and Canadian indie pop band Walk off the Earth are excited to release a modern take on the Y.M.C.A. anthem to raise awareness of expanded access to the free YMCA youth mental health program, Y Mind.

Lives touched by the YMCA


  • Text: Tyler's Story, From Ally to Advocate for Indigenous Language Revitalization. Image: Tyler standing at a podium speaking at an event. The YMCA Shine On logo is in the bottom right corner.
    Stories

    Tyler’s Story: From Ally to Advocate for Indigenous Language Revitalization 

    For Tyler Patterson, a Wolastoqey Language Advocate and member of the YMCA Youth Council, leadership means turning learning into action. The Wolastoqey language, like countless other Indigenous languages across Canada, is critically endangered. With well below 100 fluent speakers who are all above the age of 65, the time to act is now. Read Tyler’s full story here.

  • Text: Jill's Story. Four Decades of Giving Back. Image: Jill and another woman stand behind a large cake that says Happy 10th Birthday YM-YWCA
    Stories

    Jill’s Story: Four Decades of Giving Back 

    For 44 years, Jill has been part of the Y community. After overcoming a lifelong fear of water and learning to swim at the Y, she began volunteering and hasn’t stopped since. Today, she continues to give back through events, administration support, and community programs for older adults.

  • Text: Together, We Shine. Read Aderonke & Agnes' Story. Image: Aderonke and Agnes are standing together in front of a mural and smiling. The YMCA Shine On logo is in the bottom left corner.
    Stories

    Aderonke & Agnes’ Story: From First Project to Meaningful Impact

    Last summer at the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Summer Club, two new educators, Aderonke and Agnes stepped into their first major leadership opportunity.