We help communities shine.
While we do not offer programs and services to the public directly, our work has a ripple effect that reaches millions of Canadians who come to the YMCA every year.
At its heart, the YMCA is built on the idea that community can be a powerful force for good. For generations, the YMCA has been where people find belonging, discover their potential, and give back to others. While local programs continue to evolve, our shared belief remains the same: everyone deserves the chance to shine.
At YMCA Canada, we help local YMCA Associations bring this belief to life by:
- Strengthening local YMCAs and fostering collaboration
- Protecting and promoting the YMCA’s reputation
- Advocating on behalf of YMCAs in Canada regionally, nationally, and globally
- Representing Canada in the World Alliance of YMCAs
Our federated YMCA model
The YMCA in Canada operates in a federated model. Local YMCA Associations operate autonomously but collaborate under a shared purpose. Today, the Canadian YMCA Federation includes 37 YMCA Associations – 35 YMCAs and 2 YMCA-YWCAs, and YMCA Canada, the national office. Collectively, YMCAs serve two million Canadians each year at more than 1,000 locations.
Our Areas of Work
We focus on key areas that help YMCAs grow their impact, reach more people, and build stronger operating models. These areas align with World YMCA’s global strategic plan, YMCA Vision 2030.
Community Well-Being
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential while nurturing both themselves and the communities they belong to.
We champion and deliver high-quality, relevant, and sustainable health and well-being solutions that empower individuals and strengthen the communities they call home.
Just World
We believe in the power of communities to lead the way in advancing justice, peace, equity, and human rights for all.
We will stand against all forms of systemic discrimination, inequality, injustice, and racism, amplifying the voices of communities to ensure everyone is heard, while holding ourselves accountable to embody these values in our own practices and culture.
Meaningful Work
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to learn and to engage in meaningful, dignified work that brings purpose to their lives.
We create, expand, and advocate for inclusive opportunities for learning, employment, and entrepreneurship so everyone can build a meaningful and sustainable livelihood in a changing economy.
The YMCA We Need
We believe in the essential role we play in communities, and in the importance of staying financially strong and responsive to evolving needs so we can continue to serve with impact.
We strengthen our Federation by embracing innovation and technology, renewing capital assets, and building financial sustainability to stay relevant and deepen our impact in communities.
Sustainable Planet
We believe in the shared responsibility to protect and care for our planet, and the urgent need to act.
We commit to becoming a climate-ready, sustainable movement, opening our spaces in times of extreme weather events, and using our voice and reach to advance climate justice and sustainable solutions.
Events
Fostering connection and celebrating impact.