My bosses were 7 and 10 When Kristin first applied to work with YMCA EarlyON, she had been a stay-at-home mom for ten years. Before having children, she worked in social services, but her own experience of postpartum depression changed the direction she imagined for her career and eventually led her to volunteer with a group supporting other mothers. When she was ready to return to work, Kristin discovered [...]
Every Journey Starts Somewhere For Deandra, returning to the workforce was about more than finding a job. After spending time as a stay-at-home mom, she was ready to create greater stability for herself and her children, but she knew she could use some support along the way. To take the next step, Deandra connected with YMCA Employment Services. Strengthening Skills When Deandra first connected with [...]
The Stamford Kiwanis YMCA of Niagara Golf Classic, powered by FirstOntario Credit Union, supports YMCA of Niagara programs and Stamford Kiwanis initiatives.
Every Journey Starts Somewhere When Mehad arrived in Niagara, she was excited for a new beginning, but unsure where to start. She had built a career in business, supply chain management, and marketing, but in a new country, everything felt unfamiliar. She was navigating a new culture, a new language, and wondering where to begin. As someone who describes herself as outgoing, she wanted to make friends and connect [...]
YMCA of Niagara’s In Motion & Momentum+ youth employment program is featured in the St. Catharines Standard, highlighting confidence, connection, and employment readiness.
YMCA of Niagara Board Members share the experiences, values and motivations that inspired them to serve, and how volunteer leadership helps strengthen communities across Niagara.
How EarlyON Helped Lizzie and Sawyer Grow Together When Lizzie first became a parent during the COVID-19 pandemic, much of her world became smaller. Most days were spent at home, navigating motherhood while trying to meet the needs of her son Sawyer, who is non-verbal and autistic. Like many parents, she wanted the best for her child, but finding support, resources, and connections wasn't always easy. Then she found [...]
YMCA of Niagara celebrated the official opening of the Thundering Heights Child Care Centre in Niagara Falls alongside community partners, families, and local leaders. Located within the newly opened Thundering Heights Public School, the centre offers licensed infant, toddler, preschool, and before and after school child care programs supporting the growing needs of local families.
Niagara’s EarlyON Child and Family Centres have been recognized with a provincial innovation award for their community hub model supporting children, parents and caregivers across the region. Learn how EarlyON Centres — including five operated by YMCA of Niagara — are helping families connect, learn and thrive.
It Starts with a Simple Moment There’s a moment that happens in Youth Action that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. A young person walks into a room. Maybe it’s their first time. Maybe they don’t know anyone. There’s that pause… that quiet question: Do I belong here? And then something shifts. Someone waves them over. A group makes space. A simple [...]
