Creating Opportunities, One Pitch at a Time

This summer, something special was happening on the baseball diamond at Lancaster Park in St. Catharines. Every Saturday afternoon, the crack of the bat, the sound of laughter, and the cheers of encouragement filled the air as young athletes took part in the YMCA of Niagara’s RBI Baseball — an eight-week community initiative that proved how much stronger we shine when we work together.

Thanks to generous support from the Jays Care Foundation, YMCA staff led beginner baseball sessions designed to build confidence, teamwork, and new skills for kids aged 10 to 12. Jays Care provided the equipment, funding, and inspiration — and the YMCA brought the heart, connection, and local expertise to make it all come alive. Together, we created a space where kids could step onto the field — some for the very first time — and discover the joy of sport.

Stepping Onto The Field Together

Partnerships like this one show the power of collaboration. When organizations come together with a shared purpose, we open doors to experiences that children across the Niagara region might not otherwise have. Whether it’s a baseball field in St. Catharines, a gym night in Fort Erie, or a park in Welland, the YMCA’s community programs thrive because of partners who believe in creating opportunities for every child to grow, play, and belong.

This summer’s Jays Care sessions weren’t about competition — they were about connection. Coaches focused on fun, teamwork, and confidence-building, offering guidance to kids who had never swung a bat before. For many, it wasn’t just about learning a new sport; it was about realizing they could do something they’d never tried before.

The Proof Is in the Smiles

One parent shared that their child joined without knowing a thing about baseball but quickly found a new love for the game:

“He started without knowing anything about this skill, and now I see him outside with friends passing the ball or playing baseball — which is great!”

Another said the program gave their son a new sense of confidence:

“This program allowed our son to learn a sport he was interested in, in a non-competitive way. It helped build his confidence in his athletic abilities. He now knows he’s great at baseball and wants to join a competitive team next year.”

And then there’s Carlos, a 10-year-old who arrived at the first session feeling unsure and mostly quiet, taking in everything around him. Week by week, with encouragement from YMCA coaches and new friends, he opened up — greeting everyone with high-fives and bright smiles by the end of the program. His story captures the heart of what community programs can do: spark joy, build confidence, and help every child find their place on the team.

More Than a Game

Programs like this are what make community impact possible. The YMCA of Niagara is proud to collaborate with foundations, local organizations, and volunteers who share our vision of creating spaces where everyone can shine — one pitch, one high-five, and one connection at a time.

As the Toronto Blue Jays make their long-awaited return to the World Series, our own young athletes are celebrating their victories too — learning, laughing, and growing through the power of play.

Because when we step up to the plate together, amazing things happen.

Igniting Community Through Partnership