Dear Members and Friends of the Y,
Strong communities don’t happen by chance, they are built through connection, care, and the willingness to show up for one another.
At the YMCA of Eastern Ontario, I have the privilege of seeing this every day in spaces where children feel safe, youth find belonging, and families access the support they need to move forward. And it’s made possible because of people like you.
That shared impact is at the heart of our 2026 Annual Campaign, Y Communities Thrive.
As someone connected to the YMCA, you understand the importance of creating opportunities for people to grow, belong, and succeed. Your support helps ensure that individuals and families across our region can access the programs, relationships, and resources they need not just to get by, but to truly thrive.
This year, we are aiming to raise $440,000 to expand access to critical YMCA programs and services across Eastern Ontario. From providing healthy meals and safe spaces for youth, to building life skills through recreation, leadership, and housing supports, the YMCA continues to respond to the evolving needs of our communities.
From youth programs and food security initiatives to aquatics, housing, and community outreach, our impact spans every stage of life.
Because of the generosity of our community, last year’s impact was remarkable:
- 25% of Members received some form of financial assistance
- 376 weeks of summer camp offered to local children
- 30,000 meals delivered to kids and teens
- 4,200 visits to the Work Hard Eat Well
- 335 aquatic leadership certifications issued
- 120 High school credit earned through the Student Impact Program.
- 37,800 swim lesson days provided across Kingston, Brockville, Prescott, North Grenville and North Dundas
- 2500 days of housing through our Hearthstone housing program
These numbers represent real people, real stories, and real change.
Your support makes it possible for a child to attend camp for the first time, for a teen to find a safe place to belong, and for a family to access the support they need during challenging times. It helps put meals on the table, builds confidence and life skills, and creates spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and connected. Simply put, your generosity helps strengthen the foundation of our communities.
If you are able, I invite you to consider making a gift to support the Y Communities Thrive campaign. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps remove barriers and create meaningful opportunities for people across our communities.
Campaign Highlights and Events:
- Gift of Camp Campaign: May 1 to August 9
- McHappy Day – Kingston and Gananoque locations: May 6
- East Coast Summer Picnic: July 5
- Hoops for Good 3x3 basketball tournament: July 11
- Y Communities Thrive Pickleball Tournament: July 18
- YMCA of Eastern Ontario Community Golf Classic: October 5
Thank you for being part of the YMCA community, and for helping ensure that more people have the opportunity to thrive.
Warm regards,
Rob Adams
CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario
