By Jill Tettmann, President and CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.

As we step into a new year, we’re taking a moment to celebrate all we’ve accomplished and embrace the sparks of possibility that lie ahead. Because we know that now more than ever, people need the Y – including here in Simcoe County, the District Municipality of Muskoka, and the District of Parry Sound.

Over the past few years, the world around us has experienced significant changes, transforming how we work, communicate, educate, care for one another, and everything in between. For many individuals and families, this change has brought challenges rather than improvements – challenges that are still being felt today.

A recent survey conducted by YMCA Canada and Angus Reid[1] uncovered a staggering statistic: 60% of Canadians feel disconnected from their community. Children and youth have been hit hard, with nearly one-third of parents reporting that their children express feelings of isolation. Lower income and unemployed Canadians face more pronounced struggles in feeling disconnected from their communities and have notably less interactions outside of work or school each week.

And although the majority of respondents indicated that community spaces help build strong communities, boost well-being and foster belonging, 36% did not have one.

And that has to change.

At the Y, we believe that human connection is not a bonus or a nice to have, it is a necessity, and one that no one should have to go without.

We have been bringing people together for nearly 170 years, to learn, grow, make friends, build confidence and feel healthy and strong, and we are excited to continue sparking potential in so many ways this year.

Our strategic plan, ‘Forward, Together’, was introduced in 2022, and has guided us in delivering on our commitments to the communities in which we operate. With our progress in mind, we recently decided to refresh our strategic plan and extend it to 2026. Core to our plan are the themes of connection and belonging, which we believe will help address this critical need in our community.

For the next two years, we will focus on three priorities:

As we kick off 2025, we are eager and excited to welcome more members to our Y facilities and a wide range of accessible programs. We will look to do so through various programs, campaigns, and incentives, all geared towards offering a place of belonging, connection, and opportunity to as many people as possible. This will include everything from events to classes, drop-in opportunities, camps, child care, and more.

Most importantly, we will continue to offer financial assistance to ensure affordable YMCA access for individuals and families who face financial barriers and are missing out on opportunities to connect.

Now more than ever, people need the Y. And we are prepared and looking forward to being there for them in 2025 and beyond.

Happy New Year from all of us at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. Wishing you a healthy, connected, and vibrant year ahead.

 

[1] These findings are from a survey conducted by YMCA from August 29 to September 3, 2024, among a representative sample of 1,501 online Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/-2.53 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

By Laura Kelly, Vice President of Philanthropy at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.

Every day in our communities, countless children, youth, adults, and seniors are searching for opportunities to grow, chances to enhance their wellness, and ultimately, for a place to belong – and our community continues to come together to help make all these things possible.  

With gifts of all shapes and sizes, donors and volunteers give of themselves and in turn, transform the lives of so many in our communities. For instance, their support helps ensure children have access to life saving swimming skills, newcomers are connected to critical employment programs, and youth have the opportunity to grow their leadership skills. And because of these programs, we believe more people feel a greater sense of confidence and belonging.  

In short, generosity changes lives. And here at the Y, it inspires people to reach their full potential.  

Now, as we begin the traditional season of giving with more opportunities to connect to this critical cause, we want to take time to pause and reflect on the support already given this year, and how it sparks potential. For example: 

Creating Connections to Wellness: This year, Move to Give celebrated its 10th anniversary, showcasing strong community spirit and shared understanding in the importance of belonging. Support for the cause was overwhelming, with over 750 participants from Simcoe, Muskoka, and Parry Sound taking part in peer-to-peer fundraising, child care fundraising activities, and themed events and activities at the Y’s health and fitness centres like community barbeques, bus pull events, and more. The YMCA also sought to expand our impact in new ways, collecting food donations from the community as part of Food to Give, a new initiative to give back to local food banks. The $130,000 raised this year will undoubtedly help break down financial barriers for those who need our transformative programs and services and ensure a brighter, healthier future for our community.  

Inspiring Literacy: At the Y, we believe in the power of education and literacy to open doors, boost confidence, and change lives. Literacy levels affect our economic status, health, career options, and the education our children receive. Fundraising is critical to offering this life-changing support. That’s why we’re thrilled that the 23rd annual Muskoka Novel Marathon event, held in Port Sydney, raised $4,500 for adult literacy programs in Huntsville and the Muskoka region. We are confident that this will equate to more opportunities, confidence and experiences for so many in our community.  

Investing in Corporate & Social Responsibility: The Roaring Social, which was held to support the YMCA’s programming and services for all members of our community, was a roaring success! The electricity of our community coming together to support others in overcoming obstacles was tangible, and we’re grateful to everyone who attended and supported this event. Over 230 people joined us at Blue Mountain Resort on November 1, 2024, and together, we raised $150,000 to help tackle several community challenges, from child care shortages, to mental health, well-being, and more. To add to the fun, comedian Gerry Dee headlined the event while a silent auction and live music from The Empties also helped us to raise funds for our community. The impact of this event will be felt for months to come, as we ensure individuals and families have the access to the life changing programs and support they deserve.  

Supporting Transformational Communities: The Y recently received the City of Barrie’s Per Door Grant to support its Youth Transitional Housing project, providing safe housing and growth opportunities for vulnerable youth at the new Barrie YMCA. This grant, part of Barrie’s Housing Improvement Plan, will help fund a three-story complex with 12 units. Additional support from Ontario and other sources further strengthens this project, aligning with Barrie’s commitment to youth development and well-being. Mayor Alex Nuttall expressed pride in backing an initiative that provides both housing and a pathway to a brighter future for at-risk youth. 

Championing Community Together: Over the past year, YMCA staff and board members have contributed over $55,000 through various campaigns and gifts. This remarkable generosity demonstrates their deep commitment to our programs, services, and facilities, and reflects a shared belief in the Y’s mission to create inclusive, vibrant communities. We are incredibly grateful for your passion and dedication to a brighter future for all. Each supporter plays a vital role in building a place where everyone belongs. On behalf of every individual impacted by your generosity, we say “Thank You.”  

Thank you for being champions of diversity and the power of personal connection.  

Thank you for your belief in the importance of building communities where everyone belongs.  

Thank you for creating communities where everyone can be themselves and where everyone has the potential to stand out. 

Together we are building a united community that values education, promotes healthy lifestyles, and ensures a brighter future for all. Learn more about how we’re working together on this exciting purpose.  

And together, I’m eager to see what we can accomplish next.  

By Pamela Marck, Vice President, Brand Experience & Strategic Innovation at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.

At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, we are proud to be participating in YMCA Canada’s National Shine On Campaign. This national brand awareness campaign, which started with the YMCA of Greater Toronto, is now expanding nationwide, to help spread the YMCA message of belonging, support, and empowerment to every corner of our great country, including every community we serve.

This campaign is also the first opportunity to highlight the new Shine On brand. This brand focuses on the YMCA as a place where everyone can ignite their true potential. It will help more Canadians understand why the YMCA is so important to communities, through a simple but powerful message: we all have the potential to shine, and that potential is ignited at the YMCA.

Whether that be through belonging – like Olesegun, who participated in our Immigrant Services program and told us:

“I’m glad to have been referred to the Y. They have introduced my family and I to several activities that are key to being able to fully integrate into a new society, e.g. how to get a license, the bus routes, employment workshops etc.  All the staff of the YMCA are friendly and are quick to offer a solution to challenges. I’m glad I met them and would recommend them to new immigrants in a heartbeat.”

Or through meaningful employment – like Courtney, who participated in our Youth Advisory Council and told us:

“This life changing experience not only made me think about things differently throughout my day-to-day life; it also gave me skills to help me become a hard worker.”

Or through programming to benefit physical or mental health, the YMCA has something for everyone. By welcoming our community in with a supportive, positive, empowering approach, we can continue to work to ensure our YMCA shines, too.

The Shine On brand has been carefully crafted with collaboration from Y’s all across the country over the past three years. From its inception at the YMCA GTA in September 2021, to Y Canada identifying opportunities for strategic alignment across the nation in November 2022, to a full Y Canada Shine On brand centre becoming available in June of 2023, to today, with the national campaign launching, this process has been nothing short of intentional and collaborative. And we’re thrilled to be part of it.

You may spot the campaign in the form of television and radio commercials, digital advertisements, on streaming platforms and more from now until December. I hope you’ll love it as much as we do – and we hope you’ll consider sharing it where you can!

But this work didn’t just begin this year. We have been working thoughtfully toward our role in the Shine On movement for over two years. Driven by our Forward Together strategic plan, which helps guide us in delivering our programs and services to make a positive impact in the communities we serve each and every day, we’ve supported thousands of people across Simcoe, Muskoka, and Parry Sound District, and helped them shine. When we say ‘Forward, Together’, it refers to the steps we take each day, individually and together, to ensure that the communities we serve are vibrant and connected places where everyone belongs. This intention could not align any better with the promise of Shine On!

The Shine On brand and the new National Campaign give us the opportunity to share this promise with individuals and our community. Shine On is in everything we do, from our programs and services, to how we communicate and interact with our participants, donors, staff, and community members. By participating in this campaign and continuing to live the Shine On brand, we can inspire more people to get involved with the YMCA, ignite their potential and help others do the same.

Gerard Buckley and Mary MacDonald, long-time supporters of the Collingwood and Wasaga Beach YMCAs, have once again demonstrated their commitment to the community by funding two significant scholarship programs – the Advanced Aquatics Scholarships and the Investing in Futures Scholarships.

These initiatives, made possible through the generous contributions of Buckley and MacDonald, have had a profound impact on local youth, enabling them to develop vital skills, gain employment, forge new friendships, build confidence, and enhance their resilience. Their support underscores the critical role of donors in advancing the mission of the YMCA. By being the initial benefactors of the Advanced Aquatics Scholarships, they have not only supported the youth of Collingwood and Wasaga Beach but have also inspired similar initiatives in other communities throughout the region.

The YMCA has a long-standing history of offering trusted aquatics programs through the Life Saving Society, equipping young people with essential water safety, first aid skills, and pathways to future employment. The pandemic had forced extended closures of many local pools, including the YMCA, resulting in missed swim lessons and a shortage of certified lifeguards. With Buckley and MacDonald’s support, the YMCA is addressing this backlog, ensuring that vital swim lessons continue, a critical measure for drowning prevention. As financial challenges grow for many families, barriers to accessing these life-saving skills have also increased. The YMCA is delighted to offer scholarships that help overcome these hurdles.

“Our YMCA is deeply grateful to Gerard and Mary for their unwavering support and for addressing the urgent need to provide swim lessons and advanced aquatics training,” said Nilusha Premasinghe, General Manager of the Collingwood YMCA. “The pandemic closures and the rising financial pressures have created significant obstacles for families. Together, we are creating exceptional opportunities for youth to achieve advanced aquatic certifications and further their education.”

Gerard Buckley and Mary MacDonald expressed their dedication to the community, saying, “The YMCA is a cornerstone of Collingwood and Wasaga Beach, offering essential life-saving programs. Supporting the communities where we live, and work is a fundamental value of Buckley Mortgage Broker and the Buckley MacDonald Youth Fund. We believe that families in our area will greatly benefit from these Youth Swim and Life Saving programs.”

Local youth interested in the Advanced Aquatics Scholarships can find more information and apply by visiting YMCA Aquatics Scholarships.

In addition to the aquatic scholarships, Buckley and MacDonald have generously established the Investing in Futures Scholarships. These are available to YMCA staff and youth leadership participants aged 17-29 at the Collingwood and Wasaga Beach YMCAs. Recipients, such as Sarah Deakos and Gracie McInnis, have the opportunity to receive $1,000 for their post-secondary education. Scholarships like these not only reduce student debt but also inspire recipients and others towards philanthropy and civic engagement.

Sarah Deakos, a recipient representing the Wasaga Beach YMCA, plans to pursue legal studies and human rights. In her application, she wrote, “Just like the YMCA, I believe in inclusivity and that everyone should feel they belong and have the opportunity to achieve great things. Through my education, I aspire to defend and advocate for people’s rights and freedoms, ensuring everyone in our community enjoys a safe and happy existence.”

Gracie McInnis, from the Collingwood YMCA, chose a program in general psychology, which she believes offers multiple career paths to impact communities positively. “The knowledge I’ve gained has allowed me to better support individuals at work and have more meaningful interactions with members. My goal is to promote well-being, reduce stigma, and improve access to mental health resources in the community.”

For more details on applying for these scholarships or supporting similar initiatives, visit YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka.

Imagine having your home, job, family, community, and country taken from you and having to restart your entire life on the other side of the world, where you don’t even speak the language. Now imagine having to do it without your partner. With limited exceptions, men can’t leave Ukraine. Husbands and fathers must be left behind, breaking families apart to be rebuilt by the mothers who have escaped to Canada.

In this blog, we’re sharing the story of ‘N’, whose name has been changed to protect her identity. N escaped from the war in Ukraine to start her new life in Canada. She had a full life. She and her husband eagerly awaited the arrival of their first child; then, suddenly, the war took it all.  She found herself and her unborn child in Barrie, totally alone. No husband, family, or friends. Her future was uncertain.

This story is all too familiar for thousands of displaced Ukrainian families across our region.

The challenge continues for families already here, and more arrive almost daily. These displaced and divided families receive help from government and charitable organizations, but the agencies don’t cover everything. In response, a small group of Simcoe County residents have partnered with YMCA Immigrant Services to create the YMCA Displaced Ukrainian Emergency Needs Fund. This Fund will help fill the gaps in housing retention, eye care, medications, and more, as we work together to make a difference for displaced Ukrainians.

Read on to hear N’s story and learn how you can be a catalyst for hope for displaced Ukrainians like N.

On February 24, 2022, at 5 am, my husband and I were startled awake by a violent thunderstorm, but the brilliant flashes of bright white light we would expect were yellow flashes with an enduring red glow. Feelings of dread crept over us as we realized what we were experiencing were explosions followed by fires near Kyiv, Ukraine. The roar of fighter jet engines streaking overhead drove home the knowledge that our lives would be nothing like we had dreamed and planned.

Growing up, I had to be adaptable. My father served in the military since I was born in the Soviet Union in 1985, so we moved around a lot. Around my first birthday, we moved to Germany. When I turned six, we were off to Latvia. Upon the collapse of the Soviet Union, at age seven, we returned to Ukraine. We became citizens soon after Ukraine declared its independence from Russia in 1991. My family, including my new sister, have lived in Kyiv since.

Our now stable home situation allowed me to focus on educational and professional goals and accomplishments. I began working in 2004 and achieved a master’s degree in economics with a logistics major at the Kyiv Economic Institute of Management in 2007. My vision for my future broadened when I felt a strong attraction to a handsome, intelligent man I had struck up a conversation with on the street one afternoon. It must have been fate because my normal reluctance to be so outgoing disappeared that day. In time we would be married.

The romance wasn’t so distracting that I didn’t advance my career from working at small companies initially to international corporations like Danone and Heinemann Duty-Free. Along with sharing our love and planning for renovations to our small apartment to accommodate the family we wanted, we shared career aspirations with my husband being a corporate lawyer and head of his department. Every day confirmed the strength of our bond that paved the way to a bright, abundant future.

Until that morning when explosions and fires destroyed our dreams. The flickering red light on the walls foreshadowed the hellish ruins of our future.

Suddenly men were rushing to enlist at military offices. Curfews governed routine activities like shopping. Lines were long as people rushed to secure the necessities needed to make it through what we imagined was coming. We couldn’t be sure we wouldn’t face the enemy at any time, as Russian forces had been seen in parts of Kyiv. Bomb shelters were scarce, so we had to try to sleep in basements despite the fear the sound of jets flying over brought. Were they ours or theirs? And were we in their sites?

Having grown up in military families, we both felt a duty to protect our homeland, so my husband enlisted. I felt compelled to enlist as well, but I learned I was pregnant, which precluded doing so. Despite the choices of caring for the life within me or protecting my country being out of my control, choosing between having my love with me for the birth of our child or defending against the invaders was torturous. I learned there was no limit to my tears.

I only had two hours to decide to leave Kyiv for a safer location on the advice of my parents and husband. I would take a train to Dnipro, 528 km to the southeast. The Central Kyiv railway station was open, but it was engulfed in foreboding darkness as trains and stations were blacked out at sunset. Passengers seemed to carry the weight of the darkness with them, fearing the light of a flashlight or cell phone would reveal our locations as trains quietly slipped in and out of the station. The moods of the riders matched the dark surroundings.

It took just a couple of days until I realized Dnipro wouldn’t be a safe haven as it was actually closer to the active front line of the war, so my husband arranged for me to escape to an old friend’s home in the Czech Republic. Throngs of refugees choked the border, making it a 14-hour ordeal to cross. About 500 hungry, exhausted, and cold women and children cried… some even fainted from the stress… as they waited in a field for permission to cross. It was just the beginning for me, though. What followed was a 6-hour bus trip from the border to Warsaw, then an 8-hour train trip to Prague with only my backpack and the floor for me as there were no seats. When I finally arrived, a week filled with fear, discomfort, and uncertainty had passed.

Though I was safe, I was faced with a one-bedroom apartment housing 11 people. I didn’t know what I would do next, where I would have our baby and how I would live. Ukrainian refugees filled jobs and accommodations in this city, and I didn’t speak Czech, which narrowed my prospects even more.

It was about then that I heard about a special Canadian program called CUAET (Canada – Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel). It gave me the first glimmer of hope I’d had recently, as I had dreamed of going to Canada since learning about it in my grade 5 geography class. I had tried everything to make that dream a reality… student exchanges, working, or just moving there when I was 16… but hadn’t succeeded. Now, despite my limited finances, work experience and education, the disaster that was tearing my life apart was also working together toward the realization of my long-held dream… going to Canada. It was a small consolation given what I was enduring, but that small glimmer helped me cope.

My pessimism that my glimmer would never become reality suddenly vanished when, on my birthday, a letter arrived that said I was approved to go to Canada! I had never travelled abroad, and I only had a month to learn how to book my flights with a connection in Germany onwards to Canada. The task of planning for my future was a much-needed respite preventing me from dwelling on thoughts of everything I was leaving behind. My entire life would have to fit in one suitcase for the journey that would take me to the other side of the world and to the life I would have to build myself. As I looked out at the clouds that the plane soared over, my mind was crowded with regrets, fear and anticipation.

My next turn of fortune landed me in Toronto when a Ukrainian woman invited me to live in her home while I got on my feet. It was May 2022, and though it was tiring getting around without a car in the southern Ontario summer heat, I had a long “to-do” list that kept me occupied with paperwork, English classes, seeing a doctor for my pregnancy, looking for a job, attending job fairs… but I also managed to get acquainted with my new location with visits to the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Island, Niagara Falls during Canada Day, Oakville and Windsor.

As fate would have it, I landed a job babysitting a child at the Ukrainian National Federation of Canada’s “Camp Sokil” in Oro-Medonte. On my way north, my bus passed through Barrie, and I found the small city very appealing. My glimmer just kept growing when I received an offer to live there at IOOF in an apartment attached to a senior’s facility near the heart of Barrie.

My baby couldn’t wait to join me in the future that was shaping up for us, so she came into the world a month early. My life continued to be yet another blend of good and bad, though. This time, the bad came in the form of COVID-19, which made my daughter’s arrival an incredibly difficult time that I vaguely remember. But now I had my new Canadian and Ukrainian friends and RVH staff to help me through it.

My new world fell in around me and obscured my glimmer when I learned during my daughter’s third month that her father and my love, was missing in Bakhmut, which remains in enemy hands to this day. I lost my breast milk when thoughts of my total inability to help my husband or know his fate clouded my mind. Also, I hadn’t seen my parents, who’d waited nine months for their Visa to come to Canada to meet their grandchild. Their military background will keep them living in the Ukraine to fight for their country if called, though. My family is further fractured, with my sister living and studying in Germany.

I was just going through the motions of daily life until another act of kindness broke through the clouds. A woman I didn’t know offered to cover the cost of baby formula for almost a year. That act of kindness helped get me going again. I took every step possible, including contacting organizations like the Red Cross to find my husband. I worked to enhance my English skills. I got my G1 driving license and plan to get my G2 shortly. I found daycare for my daughter. I’m preparing for my first career job in Canada by working with the “Job Finding Club for Immigrants.” That’s important because I never want to be a dependent migrant. I want to earn my stolen life back. I want to be a productive, contributing member of my new community.

My beliefs push me forward. I believe Ukraine will win the war. I believe I will see my parents and sister again. I believe I will be united with my husband again, and he will meet his daughter. My most important belief is that I can build a good future for my Canadian girl in our new country where kindness, opportunity and democracy thrive.

People restarting their lives after being displaced by war face extreme physical and psychological challenges nearly impossible to overcome without the warm welcome and willingness to help of the Canadian government, charitable organizations, and wonderful people. Roughly 70% of displaced Ukrainians are mothers with their children whose husbands aren’t allowed to leave the country, but we have the strength to start again… with your help. Please support the Displaced Ukrainian Emergency Needs Fund through YMCA Immigrant Services.

Together, we can provide safety for displaced Ukrainians, empowering them to overcome challenges and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.

Join us in supporting the YMCA Displaced Ukrainian Emergency Needs Fund to provide Ukrainians with more than just the basics. Be a catalyst for caring by sharing this blog post and donating at GiveToTheY.ca (select “Displaced Ukrainians – Immigrant Services” under designation when making your donation).

Your donations help bridge the gap that government aid can’t cover, ensuring essentials like housing, medical care, and food are taken care of. By supporting this fund, you have the opportunity to make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of Ukrainians in Canada. Every contribution helps provide essential assistance to those who have been forced to flee their homes due to violence and conflict. Together, we can show solidarity with displaced populations and demonstrate the compassion and generosity of the Canadian community.

To learn more about the YMCA Displaced Ukrainian Emergency Needs Fund, contact [email protected].

Pictured above is Grace and Sterling McLeod. Sterling’s legacy gift to the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka ensures generations to come can benefit from YMCA programs and services.

May is Planned Giving Month. A planned or legacy gift ensures you’ll continue supporting the causes close to you in the future. If you plan for your legacy during your lifetime, you can see first-hand the difference your support will make for many children, youth, and families across Simcoe County, Muskoka, and the District of Parry Sound.

This month on the blog, we’re highlighting a generous gift from a planned giving donor, and sharing his family’s reasons for giving back to the YMCA. Read on to learn more about Sterling McLeod’s legacy.

The YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka community takes great pride in honouring the memory of Sterling McLeod, a remarkable individual whose legacy of leadership and commitment to community service continues to inspire us all. Sterling’s legacy lives on through his wife, Grace McLeod, and four children. The YMCA would like to express heartfelt appreciation for the generous $25,000 contribution made by his son, Scott McLeod, and Sterling’s wife, Grace. This contribution will actively support ongoing programs and initiatives that align with the cherished values Sterling held throughout his life.

Mr. McLeod’s dedication to the YMCA traces back to his early years in Montreal, where he first joined the YMCA and was an avid basketball player. Sterling’s involvement with the YMCA played a pivotal role in shaping him into the extraordinary leader he became.

Sharing the motivation behind his donation, Scott McLeod expressed, “My father’s time with the YMCA in Montreal was a defining chapter in his life. The values of community, inclusivity, and personal growth instilled by the YMCA had a profound influence on him. This donation is a small way to express our gratitude for the positive impact the YMCA has had on our family and to ensure that others can continue to benefit from its programs and services.”

In the spirit of Sterling McLeod’s legacy, let us join forces to support the next generation of leaders through YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka programs. Your support contributes to the present well-being and establishes a lasting impact spanning generations. The YMCA provides a platform for individuals to cultivate leadership skills, fostering personal growth and community development from the start. Join us in building a legacy that empowers individuals, families, and the community.

“We are grateful for Scott McLeod’s generous contribution to our YMCA”, said Jill Tettmann, CEO, YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. “His family’s legacy of leadership and generosity reflects a deep commitment to community values. Such donations not only provide crucial support for our ongoing programs, but also serve as a testament to the enduring impact of the YMCA. Scott’s dedication to honouring his father’s legacy through this donation will leave a lasting imprint, enabling us to reach more individuals and continue fostering a community where personal growth and inclusivity thrive.”

The YMCA Simcoe/Muskoka extends its deepest gratitude to Scott McLeod for his generous contribution, which will undoubtedly significantly enhance our capacity to reach more individuals in need, providing them with opportunities for physical activity, personal development, and a sense of belonging and community.

Click here to learn more about planned giving, and how to make your legacy gift today.

 

For National Volunteer Week, April 14-20, our dedicated volunteers share the stories of why they give their time and what it means to be a part of this nurturing environment. Their passion and commitment are what make our community thrive.

Volunteering is not just about the service you offer to your community; it’s a pathway to your own personal growth, a chance to cultivate a deeper sense of purpose, and an opportunity to embody the values that make us human. At the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, we believe in fostering an environment where every volunteer feels valued, supported, and empowered. This is not just a place to give back—it’s a space where kindness, inclusiveness, optimism, respect, and integrity are the cornerstones of every interaction.

When you volunteer with us, you’re stepping into a community that believes in the power of collective action. Through this commitment, you’ll experience firsthand the joy that comes from making a difference. But it goes beyond that. Every task you undertake, every smile you share, and every challenge you overcome contributes to your personal growth. You’ll discover strengths and develop skills that extend far beyond the activities you’re involved in.

Our volunteers often talk about finding a sense of belonging and purpose that they hadn’t experienced elsewhere. This comes from our inclusiveness, a value that ensures everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, has the opportunity to contribute. This inclusive environment not only nurtures individual growth but also encourages our volunteers to view the world through a more empathetic and open-minded lens. In this space, you’re not just a volunteer; you’re an integral part of a community that values your contribution and believes in your potential to bring about positive change.

Join our over 200 volunteers in this ongoing journey of service and personal growth. Together, we can shine on, lighting the way for ourselves and for our community.

For more information about volunteer opportunities at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, please visit us at www.ymcasm.ca/volunteer.

Pictured above from left to right are Kevin Weaver, President of Georgian College, Jill Tettmann, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, Nicole Norris, Director of Social Innovation at Georgian College, and Mira Ray, Executive Director of Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Georgian College.

Georgian College and the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka made waves at the Research, Innovation, Scholarship and Entrepreneurship Symposium at Georgian on April 3 with an announcement aimed at reshaping community engagement and innovation. The two organizations revealed plans to co-create a Community Innovation Network – a first-of-its-kind initiative in the region.

Together, Georgian and the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, along with other interested community organizations, will participate in a Future of Belonging lab in which the group will explore how various community services will maintain relevancy into the future, as well as how they can collaborate to cause change and bring agency to underrepresented groups.

“The goals we are working towards through our Future of Belonging lab are focused on creating new opportunities for community innovation that will have a lasting and positive impact, and also supports our Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship vision of being a driver of inclusive socio-economic growth within the region,” said Dr. Mira Ray, Executive Director, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Georgian.

Jill Tettmann, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, echoed Dr. Ray’s sentiments. “We are thrilled to join forces with Georgian College on this effort. By harnessing the power of community collaboration, we aim to create new models of inclusive innovation that address the unique needs of our region. We invite other organizations to join us in co-creating this Community Innovation Network, as we work together to build a brighter future for all.”

The Community Innovation Network will build upon the ongoing collaboration between Georgian and the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, including their joint exploration with Georgian’s Social Innovation Team on the Future of Belonging in rural communities. Through this project, they have identified a critical need for innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by community-building organizations like the YMCA.

As the project progresses, there will be numerous opportunities for community members to engage and participate, ensuring that the voices of all those we serve are heard and valued. Together, Georgian and the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka aim to redefine the landscape of community-driven innovation, setting a new standard for collaboration and inclusivity in the process.

For more information about the Community Innovation Network or to get involved, visit futureofbelonging.ca.

Pictured above are YMCA Immigrant Services staff sharing what #ITSTARTS means to them. From left to right, (top row) Farishta Jasar, Fakhra Naseem, Sandra Ruttan, Sarah Stea, (bottom row) Laura Hurst and Mei Yun Liu.

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is a proud partner of the County of Simcoe’s #ITSTARTS campaign, running every year during the month of March. #ITSTARTS is a public awareness campaign designed to take proactive steps towards addressing racism and discrimination in Simcoe County. #ITSTARTS works to promote a unified community that encourages collective action against racism and discrimination. An important part of this work for the YMCA is creating a safe, vibrant and connected community where everyone belongs.

When it comes to building an inclusive community where everyone feels welcomed, YMCA Immigrant Services stands at the forefront, addressing racism and discrimination through its proactive initiatives and programs. These services not only help immigrants find their footing in a new environment but also cultivate a culture of understanding and empathy within the broader community.

Fostering Inclusion with Language and Orientation

Integration is a two-way street. YMCA Immigrant Services understands this well, offering comprehensive English language training and settlement services designed to welcome newcomers into the local community. Enhanced language skills serve as the bedrock of effective communication, crucial for participation in all facets of our shared society – from cultural to economic activities.

Orientation sessions serve as a beacon for immigrants, illuminating the intricacies of Ontario’s culture and systems. Such sessions are instrumental in equipping newcomers with the tools needed for active engagement, which naturally curtails stereotypes and misconceptions that lead to prejudice.

Empowerment through Knowledge

Armed with the right information, anyone can become a force against discrimination. YMCA Immigrant Services doesn’t just offer a helping hand; it empowers individuals with knowledge, orientation, information, and referral services. These resources are the keys to unlocking healthcare, education, housing, and employment — ensuring that those new to Canada can stand firm, know their rights, and confidently tackle any issues they face in their new community.

Connection and Community Through Engagement

No one should face a new life alone. With programs like the Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS) and International Student Connect, the YMCA fosters significant social connections. These programs cultivate robust relationships between newcomers and long-standing residents, encouraging integration and understanding through community interaction — a catalyst for embracing diversity and dismantling the walls of discrimination.

Tackling Systemic Challenges Head-On

Barriers to employment often act as silent gatekeepers, reinforcing systemic discrimination. YMCA Immigrant Services employs various strategies, such as labour market information and support services, to mitigate such challenges. From resume writing to interview strategies, they champion newcomers to navigate employment landscapes with confidence, advocating for equitable participation in the workforce.

Promoting Cultural Competence

It’s not just about coexisting; it’s about thriving together. The YMCA’s commitment to cultural competence creates an environment rich with mutual respect and understanding. By educating the community, disrupting entrenched biases, and advocating for inclusive practices, the YMCA leads the way toward a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone.

 

Through our efforts toward inclusivity and equality, YMCA Immigrant Services empowers individuals, transforms communities, and shapes a society where diversity is treasured. Join us in continuing to support these vital services that are not just preparing individuals for today, but are paving the way for a more tolerant and accepting tomorrow.

For more information about YMCA Immigrant Services programs, please visit us at: https://ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/immigrant-services/. These services are available to newcomers at no cost.

Pictured above from left to right are Don Silveri, Director, Senior Commercial Markets at RBC, Brandon Gorman, Vice-President, Senior Commercial Markets at RBC, Ronda MacPherson, Vice-President, Commercial Markets at RBC, Jamie Cleaver, Community Manager at RBC, Randy Tredenick, Regional Vice-President, Personal Banking at RBC, Karen Pulla, YMCA Vice President of Health, Wellness and Community Impact, Todd Young, Owner Beach Builders Home Hardware, YMCA Board Chair, Marjolaine Hudon, Regional President for Ontario North & East at RBC, Lisa Cook, YMCA General Manager of Immigrant and Youth Services, Anna Cheaney, RBC Wealth Management, YMCA Capital Cabinet Co-Chair, Laura Kelly, YMCA Vice President of Philanthropy, Dave Hamilton, YMCA Team Leader of Immigrant Services, and Kate Meeks, YMCA General Manager of Philanthropy.

The RBC Foundation has generously donated $100,000 to support the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s efforts to serve newcomers settling across the region. The funds are dedicated to YMCA Immigrant Services to provide new Canadians with a complimentary one-year membership to the nearest YMCA Health, Fitness, and Aquatics facility, as well as supporting the staff role of YMCA System Navigator for a second year.

The goal of this dedicated funding is to increase the overall wellness of newcomers to the region by connecting them to health and wellness spaces within the YMCA, and to help them navigate complicated systems such as the legal, housing, and health care systems in an inclusive and diverse way.

The YMCA System Navigator will help 300 newcomers and their families to work within interdisciplinary teams in hospitals, medical centres, community services, correctional and probation facilities, schools, and in private and public facilities. The YMCA staff will help them manage and navigate complicated and interrelated systems and will be the primary source of communication between the interdisciplinary team and the new Canadians, acting as an advocate and guide.

This is the second year the YMCA System Navigator position has received funding from RBC. “The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s System Navigator program, in partnership with RBC, benefitted close to 200 newcomers across Simcoe County last year,” said Dave Hamilton, Team Leader at YMCA Immigrant Services. “The System Navigator provides extended settlement supports to newcomers as they navigate the settlement process in Canada, including registering for government programs and services, accessing health care services, and connecting to other social services and community groups,” Hamilton added.

YMCA Immigrant Services helps newcomers feel empowered, welcomed, and included in their new communities, says Jill Tettmann, CEO of the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. “Newcomers face many obstacles after arriving in Canada, with one of those being understanding and navigating our complex health and social care systems. The YMCA System Navigator assists newcomers and their families in their journey through these systems, providing guidance and empowering them to make informed decisions,” explained Tettmann.

RBC has supported YMCA Immigrant Services since 2019 and has provided nearly $500,000 in support of the local charity. According to Randy Tredenick, Regional Vice-President at RBC, driving more equitable prosperity in our communities is a priority for RBC, making a partnership with the YMCA a natural fit. “The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Immigrant Services plays such an important role in welcoming newcomers to the Barrie community. As more and more new Canadians choose to live in the Barrie area and become active members of the community, the YMCA programs help them connect with their new community, help them feel safe and help them feel at home,” said Tredenick.

“Thanks to the generous support of the RBC Foundation, we can continue empowering newcomers to take an active role in decision-making processes that will have a huge impact on their new lives in Canada while positively impacting their health and well-being,” said Tettmann.

The YMCA System Navigator is available to help newcomers across Simcoe and Muskoka. To learn more about YMCA Immigrant Services, or to book an appointment, interested individuals can call 705-241-2501, or visit the YMCA’s website at www.ymcaofsimcoemuskoka.ca/immigrant-services.