Dear Family and Friends of the YMCA:
It’s hard to believe that we’re already half-way through winter and it’s that time of year when your Y is busy planning programming for spring and summer.
Family Day weekend is one of my favourites of the year. It’s a time that acknowledges how important it is to spend time with those we love. I’m looking forward to skating on the Ottawa Canal, taking in a Frontenacs game, listening to favourite tunes (between a lot of shovelling!) with Jean and Declan, and recognizing a dear friend of your YMCA, and recipient of a King Charles III Coronation Medal, Ian McFall.
King Charles III Coronation Medal
Those of you who know Ian McFall will know the remarkable impact he has made through his dedicated volunteerism and leadership in community service.
He served as co-chair of the YMCA Annual Campaign from 2010 to 2019, during which time he played a key role in engaging donors and driving the campaign’s success. In 2020, when Ian stepped down as co-chair, he continued to remain engaged by shifting his focus to co-chair the YMCA of Eastern Ontario’s Annual Fire Truck Pull, a signature event in the community. With Ian’s leadership and vision the Fire Truck Pull has grown from 1½ teams to record breaking 25 teams and $110,000 raised in 2023. Outside of fundraising Ian has been an advocate for the YMCA in the community. Passion, drive, persistence, compassion and dedication are a few adjectives to describe his approach to community work.
Outside of his involvement with the YMCA, Ian has and continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to various community initiatives. Since 2021, he has served as Chair of the Board for the United Way of Leeds & Grenville, contributing to vital programs in the region. His service with the Brockville Hospital Foundation, spanning over a decade, includes volunteer work for the annual Palliative Care Telethon and efforts to raise funds for cardiovascular recovery programs.
Ian’s efforts have made a lasting difference not only in the Brockville area but also across communities in Eastern Ontario.
On behalf of the Y and the broader community, thank you, Ian for you devotion to our region.
February 17: Family Fun Day
We also have some exciting activities planned for you! Our programming begins with Family Fun Day when I hope you’ll join us for some free family fun.
Brockville and Kingston Y facilities will be open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Free access to pools is open to all from 8 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
- Family Fun Day activities begin at 11 a.m.
Kingston East Community Centre:8am - 8pm
St. Lawrence College SHAC: Closed
February/March: Summer Camps
The excitement for summer camps and spring programs are building!
- Our new summer camp guide will be released on February 17 with registration beginning on March 4.
- The spring program guide will be released on March 4 with registration beginning on March 18.
February 9: New Sunday Aquafit Class in Brockville
We’re happy to offer a new aquafit class in Brockville that started on Sunday, February 9 from 10:35–11:20 a.m.
March 10-14: March Break
Check out our Level Up Swim Camp in Kingston for ages 10 to 14 and improve swimming skills while in Brockville, enjoy free public swims from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Board of Directors Nominations
It’s also that time of year when we solicit nominations and applications for leaders to be on our board of directors for the coming term of office. If you are a leader who cares about the potential of our community, please watch for information about how to apply to join our board of directors.
I wish you all a very happy Family Day and happy spring and look forward to seeing you at your Y!
Warm regards,
Rob Adams
CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario
