A Year of Impact. A Future Full of Potential.

By Jill Tettmann, President & CEO, YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka

December gives us the rare gift of pausing and reflecting. Of noticing what mattered in the months past. It also invites us to imagine what’s possible as we turn the page to a new year.

At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, that reflection brings with it a profound feeling of gratitude. That includes gratitude for the potential that was ignited in so many in 2025 and gratitude for the opportunity to help our communities grow healthier, stronger, and more connected in 2026.

Across the communities we serve, we witnessed thousands of moments where people felt supported, connected, and able to shine. Moments where someone took a first step toward confidence, belonging, or hope. Best of all, every one of those moments was made possible because of the people who believe in the power of the Y.

Looking Back on a Year of Meaningful Impact

In our recently released Annual Report, we share the story of what our community made possible this year. Together, we reached more than 64,000 participants across health and fitness, aquatics, child care, youth development, employment, immigrant services, camps, outdoor education and other critical community programs. This number represents much more than activity. It represents lives strengthened, families supported, and communities made healthier and more connected.

Here are just a few ways those 64,000 people ignited their potential:

19,215 newcomers were welcomed as they built new lives, new connections, and new futures in our region.

8,517 people learned to swim, building confidence and safety that lasts a lifetime.

4,979 children found belonging, growth and learning opportunities through Child Care and Before & After School programs.

156 youth developed leadership and employment skills that will shape their futures.

1,189 households received financial assistance, so cost was not a barrier to participation in a range of programs that build well-being and connection.

331 volunteers gave more than 24,414 hours to strengthen our regional communities.

And $3.14 million was raised through community giving, events, legacy gifts, and grants to support our charitable mission and make all of this impact possible.

Behind each number is a story of someone feeling seen, supported, and able to shine!

A Community That Shows Up for One Another

What stands out most this year wasn’t just what we achieved, but how we achieved it.

We saw staff leading with compassion and purpose. Volunteers offering their time, care, and encouragement. Donors stepping forward to remove barriers. Partners strengthening our reach and impact. Participants reminding us why this work matters so deeply.

The Y’s strength has always come from people – people who care deeply, act boldly, and believe in the potential of others. Because of you, our collective light shines brighter every day.

Forward, Together: Building What Comes Next

This year also marked an important milestone as we refreshed and extended our Forward, Together strategic plan through 2026. Our focus remains clear:

Connecting people to meaningful experiences

Cultivating a great place to work

Strengthening the legacy of the Y

From launching the Youth Changemakers Leadership Institute and expanding Licensed Home Child Care, to introducing the Elder In-Residence program at Camp Kitchikewana and breaking ground on the new YMCA in Barrie, we are building a future rooted in belonging and possibility.

Thank You for Being Part of This Year’s Y Story

Because of you, more people felt welcomed.

Because of you, children and youth found places to learn, move, dream, and shine.

Because of you, families stayed connected through moments of challenge and moments of joy.

Because of you, our community has grown stronger.

As we turn toward 2026, we see a year full of possibility. A year where more people can find belonging. A year where potential is unlocked. A year where community shines even brighter. Your support helps make that future real, one moment at a time.

Thank you for helping to turn impactful moments into lasting change.

To learn more about how you can support the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s programs and services, visit www.ymcasm.ca/shineon.