Every summer, National Drowning Prevention Week reminds Canadians of the crucial role water safety plays in our lives. But here at the YMCA of Niagara, water safety isn’t just a one-week campaign — it’s a year-round commitment. We sat down with Carrie, Aquatics Coordinator at the Niagara West YMCA, to get an insider’s perspective on why the YMCA is more than a swim lesson provider — it’s a public [...]
A Welcoming Hand, A Brighter Path Supporting Newcomer Students and their Families in Niagara Moving to a new country is more than just a change of address—it’s a shift in culture, routine, and identity. For children and youth especially, it can be both exciting and incredibly overwhelming. That’s why at the YMCA of Niagara, we’re proud to offer newcomer families the kind of support that goes far beyond a friendly [...]
How One Instructor Sparked a New Wave of Wellness at Niagara West YMCA Sometimes, traditional fitness classes don’t meet everyone’s needs. At the Niagara West YMCA, Tamara—a creative and caring instructor—recognized a gap and stepped in to fill it. What started as a one-on-one pool session has grown into a thriving small-group program that inspires members, builds confidence, and creates new connections. It all began with Christine. Living with [...]
From Program Participant to People Leader From her first swim lesson to leading the YMCA of Niagara’s people and culture initiatives, Connie’s lifelong journey with the YMCA is one of growth, resilience, and dedication. Beginning as a young swimmer hesitant to get her face wet, she overcame countless challenges to become a mentor, a first-generation university graduate, and now an HR Manager. Throughout every chapter, the YMCA has provided Connie [...]
