New YMCA research finds Canadians are still struggling to feel connected
The YMCA has released its second annual Connections Snapshot, offering a new look at how Canadians are feeling about connection and belonging one year after the benchmark study launched.
36%
Only 36% of Canadians say they feel a sense of belonging or connection to the community where they live all or most of the time, a result that has remained largely unchanged since 2025. At the same time, feelings of online connection have declined, while Canadians continue to place the greatest value on face-to-face interaction.
77%
The findings also reinforce the importance of accessible community spaces. Nearly eight in 10 Canadians (77%) say “third places,” spaces outside home or work where people can gather and connect, play an important role in increasing social connection.
Here in Niagara, we see what those opportunities for connection can mean. Pryce’s YMCA Summer Day Camp experience is one example. After arriving at camp cautious about new people and routines, he began joining games, making friends and finding a sense of belonging.
That same theme comes through in YMCA Youth Action. When asked what keeps them coming back to the program, one young person shared:
“Because it allowed me to build better relationships with this community and my friends.” –Youth Action Participant
Stories like these are unfolding at YMCAs across Canada, where everyday moments of connection and belonging underscore a simple idea: we are greater together.
Released alongside the YMCA’s Greater Together national awareness campaign, the Connections Snapshot highlights the important role welcoming, accessible community spaces can play in helping people build relationships, find connection and feel a sense of belonging.
Read the full YMCA Canada Connections Snapshot Press Release »