POSTED APRIL 15, 2025
Niagara, Ontario
Niagara Moved for Kids – YMCA Event Brings Energy, Generosity, and Community Impact
On Saturday, April 12, the YMCA of Niagara welcomed participants, volunteers, donors, and local leaders to Move for Kids 2025—a region-wide celebration of movement, connection, and giving.
Held across four community locations—Port Colborne YMCA, Niagara West YMCA, Niagara Centre YMCA, and the Merritton Community Centre bowling alley—the event saw hundreds of participants take part in cycling, AquaFit, DrumFIT, and bowling, all to raise funds that open doors for children and youth across Niagara.
“There’s something really special about seeing so many people move together with purpose,” said Jonna Wolfenberg, Manager of Philanthropy at the YMCA of Niagara. “Move for Kids isn’t just a fitness event—it’s a reminder that when people give their time, energy, and support, they invest in brighter futures for our kids. We’re so grateful for every individual and organization that steps up to make it happen.”
A Community in Motion
Funds raised through Move for Kids will directly support YMCA programs like summer day camp, swim lessons, and leadership development—ensuring more children and youth have access to experiences that build confidence, belonging, and potential.
Throughout the morning, MP Vance Badawey visited both the Vale Health & Wellness Centre YMCA in Port Colborne and the Niagara Centre YMCA in Welland, offering remarks and cheering on participants. His presence continued a long-standing commitment to championing opportunities for youth.
“Move for Kids is a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Christian Wulff, CEO of the YMCA of Niagara. “We’re proud to open our doors on this day of impact with the support of community members, local leaders, and partners who believe in what’s possible when we invest in kids.”
At the Merritton Community Centre, MP Chris Bittle, along with Mayors Mat Siscoe and Wayne Redekop, hit the lanes and connected with families while showing their support for local youth.
“Move for Kids is one of those days that reminds you why we do what we do,” said Ben McDermott, General Manager of Health, Fitness & Aquatics at the YMCA of Niagara. “Over the years, I’ve experienced this event in various roles, and every time, I’m inspired by the energy in our centres—members cycling, volunteers leading classes, whole communities rallying behind a cause that truly matters.”
Team Spirit on Full Display
The spirit of Move for Kids was on full display thanks to the creativity and dedication of participants across the region. The Port Colborne Pedalers, composed of City of Port Colborne staff, brought their energy to the cycle class, while KPMG turned out in full force with a team so large it spilled across lanes at the Merritton bowling event. Some individuals took on every cycling class offered, while others created their own relay—flowing from yoga to cycle to aquafit in a personal show of commitment. Teams like the Hot Wheels brought serious spirit—decked out in custom t-shirts and full of energy.
Powered by Community Support
The YMCA of Niagara is especially grateful to Polyflor, the 2025 Momentum Partner, for helping bring this year’s event to life.
“At Polyflor, we believe in giving back to the communities where we live and work,” said Nick Dron, President of Polyflor Canada Inc. “We are proud to support Move for Kids because every child deserves the chance to be active and have fun. By powering this MOVE-ment, we’re helping more Niagara children access YMCA programs that build confidence, connection, and well-being.”
Other generous sponsors included:
- Action Ambassadors: Flexo Products, TD Commercial Banking, The Printing House (TPH), Carrier
- Mighty Movers: Migson Public Storage, Sullivan Mahoney LLP, Kaumeyer Paper Limited, Bosch Rexroth
“At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the chance to discover what they’re capable of,” added Wulff. “Move for Kids is a meaningful reminder of the good we can do—together—when we invest in potential. We’re thrilled to have exceeded our $30,000 fundraising goal, with even more support continuing to come in. That’s the power of community in motion.”
Updates to the final fundraising amount and more event photos can be found at ymcaofniagara.org/move-for-kids
View Press Release: April 10, 2025