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 [...]
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 Board Members share the experiences, values and motivations that inspired them to serve, and how volunteer leadership helps strengthen communities across Niagara.
A Gift that Sparked Something More For Eden, working out started with something simple — a love for movement that didn’t go unnoticed. “I think my parents saw how much I enjoyed working out… and they were like, okay, maybe we can get you a personal trainer. And that was one of my Christmas gifts.” That gift became the beginning of something more than just a routine. It became [...]
Breaking in the Floor: Barb's Y Story Barb has been teaching fitness classes for 45 years. So when retirement arrived, she knew one thing right away. “It’s not something I could just stop,” she says. Instead, Barb found a way to keep doing what she loves by volunteering at the YMCA of Niagara. And she’s been part of the story in Grimsby from the very beginning. [...]
For Bruna, the YMCA has been part of her family’s routine for the past 10 years. It’s not something her family has to think about or plan around. “Coming to the Y isn’t optional,” she laughs. A big part of what keeps Bruna coming back is how the YMCA makes it easy for everyone to stay active and not feel like a chore. With swimming lessons and drop-in family time, [...]
How Jack rediscovered strength, confidence, and wellbeing at the YMCA Jack's turning point came during a doctor’s appointment. After that visit, Jack knew he needed to make a big change in his life. Not overnight, and not perfectly, but intentionally. What made the moment stick was the advice he received. Jack’s doctor, who also happens to be a YMCA member, encouraged him to get moving in a way that [...]
At YMCA Summer Day Camp, Pryce found confidence, joy, and belonging — and his mom found peace of mind knowing he was supported every day.
After arriving in Canada alone, Jauhar found hope, guidance, and a new career through YMCA Employment Services in Niagara. Read his inspiring story.
At a YMCA of Niagara Child Care Centre, a caring, nurturing environment helped one little girl flourish — and gave a mom returning to work peace of mind.
