How Giving Ignites the Moments That Help People Shine

By Karen Pulla, Chief Development Officer, YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka

Across our communities, more people are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, and struggling with their well-being. Rising costs, mental and physical health challenges, and growing disconnection are affecting families, youth, seniors, and neighbours across Simcoe, Muskoka, and Parry Sound. When someone cannot access the support or sense of belonging they need, the whole community feels the impact.

At the YMCA, we see these barriers clearly. And we believe that no one should face them alone.

How Your Support Removes Barriers for Local Families

Your generosity creates moments that can change someone’s day or even their entire life. A moment of confidence in a swimming lesson. A moment of connection at a youth program. A moment of relief when a parent knows their child is safe and supported. These moments help people feel included, valued, and well, and they often grow into lasting change.

That is why financial assistance is such an essential part of making sure everyone can participate. Last year, 1,189 households across our region received support in accessing YMCA health, fitness, aquatics, and camp programs. In a time when many families are making difficult choices, your support keeps people connected to the moments that strengthen wellbeing and belonging and last well beyond a given program or activity.

Why Giving Creates Opportunity, Not Just Access

Some needs in our communities are too big to ignore, and they call for all of us to be part of the solution. When access, safety, or belonging are at risk, our donors make sure no one is left behind.

The national lifeguard shortage is one example. It affects access to swim lessons, therapy swims, and aquatic recreation. With donor support, our Advanced Aquatic Scholarships are training a new generation of lifeguards and instructors, so our pools remain safe and open. Last year, 23 participants received full funding for these certifications, helping rebuild programs and reducing waitlists.

We are also seeing a troubling decline in youth physical activity. Only 39 percent of children and youth are meeting national guidelines. In response, donor support helped launch Second Tracks, a ski and snowboard program that removes cost, transportation, and equipment barriers so young people can learn new skills, get moving, and build confidence in a supportive community environment.

One of those young people was Ben. His story shows how far a single opportunity can reach:

“Everyone who was part of Second Tracks was really friendly. It was inviting and welcoming and the volunteers were so nice. Once you figure out the hills, it is thrilling. After every run you just want to go again.”

Ben’s dad, Adam, shared, “The whole program is volunteer and donation based. We are a family that would not have had the chance to try winter sports without Second Tracks. It was a gateway for us. We really appreciate it.”

Ben now plans to keep skiing, buy a pass next season, and even try out for the Collingwood ski team. A four week learn-to-ski program became a turning point that opened confidence, belonging, and possibility. That is what your support makes possible.

What Happens When You Spark a Moment of Belonging

At the YMCA we believe everyone has the potential to shine, especially when someone caring provides a spark.

It might be a “laugh out loud” moment in child care or camp that helps a child build friendships and trust.

It might be an “I can do it” moment in employment or newcomer programs that strengthens resilience.

It might be a “today is a new day” moment in health and wellness that brings hope.

It might be an “I am not alone” moment in community outreach that reminds someone they matter.

It might be an “I believe in you” moment in youth leadership that lasts for years to come.

These are the moments that change people. And they happen because of you.

The Heart of Ignite the Moments

Our Ignite the Moments campaign will launch on Giving Tuesday (December 2, 2025) and it’s all about the power of these life-shaping experiences. These experiences endure long after a program ends. They reach farther than any one building or location. And they help people across our region feel supported, valued, and able to shine.

Thank You for Helping People Shine

When you give, you help remove the barriers that stand in the way of health, connection, confidence, and belonging. You ignite moments that help people feel supported and valued. And you light a path toward a stronger future for our communities.

Moments of kindness lift us.

Moments of connection steady us.

Moments of belonging light the way.

Thank you for bringing these moments to life for our community.

To learn more about how you can support the YMCA and fuel these moments, visit www.ymcasm.ca/shineon.