Greetings,
As Remembrance Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the courage, compassion, and sense of duty shown by those who served and how those same values continue to guide our work at the YMCA today. I’m reminded that during the First World War, the YMCA was there for soldiers on the front lines, offering moments of comfort and connection when they were needed most. It was a YMCA volunteer, Moina Michael, whose compassion inspired the red poppy as a symbol of remembrance, a simple gesture that still unites us in gratitude today.
This time of year also holds personal meaning for me. My son, Declan, recently was chosen as one of two Peer Mentors with the We Were Here group to travel to France, particularly the Normandy region, where he explored WWII battlefields of the Canadian, British, and American forces and helped repatriate a Canadian soldier’s watch discovered at the crash site of his plane. Seeing the next generation honour those who served is a powerful reminder that the spirit of service, whether on the battlefield or here in our communities, continues to live on. It’s that same spirit that drives our work at the YMCA and connects us all in our shared commitment to building a better future.
Our Send a Kid to Camp campaign was a tremendous success, raising $135,564.77 towards 490 weeks of camp where children experience the joy of summer camp. Thanks to your generosity, these young people discovered new skills, built friendships, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Here is what some campers and caregivers had to say:
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“The counsellors are amazing, engaging and do everything they can to make every week enjoyable for our kids” – YMCA Guardian |
“My child looked forward to camp every single day. The staff were wonderful, and swimming and crafts quickly became the highlights of their summer.” – YMCA Guardian |
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This summer, our community came together for two incredible events that showcased the power of teamwork and generosity. Our 2nd Annual Pickleball Tournament on the Otto Almoslino Outdoor Courts saw participation grow by 40% and raised $30,900 in support of the YMCA’s Financial Assistance Program.
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Mixed 3.5 Division Winners 1. John Flannigan & Teresa Flannigan |
In August, we co-hosted the 5th Annual Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament at Smuggler’s Glen with the United Way of Leeds and Grenville, raising a record-breaking $277,000, the most in its history. Moments like these remind me of what’s possible when people unite for a shared purpose. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped make these events such a success.
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| Rob Adams; CEO YMCA of Eastern Ontario, Ian McFall; Board Chair United Way Leeds and Grenville Jay McClement; NHL Alumni, Kristen Smith; Board Chair YMCA of Eastern Ontario, Moe Robinson; NHL Alumni, Larry Robinson; NHL Alumni, Jeff Brown; Honorary Co-chair, Hailie Jack; Executive Director United Way Leeds and Grenville, Dan Clement President and CEO of United Way Centraide Canada, Peter Dinsdale; President and CEO of YMCA Canada. |
It’s through the continued support of our community that stories like these come to life, stories that speak to the connection and resilience found at the YMCA.
“I feel accepted without judgment and encouraged to keep going. The instructors are well trained, engaging, and friendly, and the staff always help me start each visit on a positive note.”
– YMCA Member
“The staff are all wonderful! They are friendly, welcoming, and caring. After my husband passed away, it was the Y that encouraged me to get out of the house and start living again. It’s not just the place, it’s the people who make it feel like one big family.”
– YMCA Member
This same spirit of generosity has fueled incredible progress across all our fundraising efforts this year. Together, we’ve raised more than $334,900 to date in support of programs that help individuals and families access vital YMCA services ensuring that cost is never a barrier to belonging.
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This brings us to 77% of our annual goal, an inspiring testament to what we can achieve together. |
With your help, we can close the gap and reach our full goal ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to belong, grow, and thrive at the YMCA.
Looking ahead, there’s much to be excited about as our Capital Project in Brockville continues to take shape. We broke ground on the new, expanded gymnasium at the end of June, and since then the site has been full of energy and progress. The concrete pad for the addition has been poured, and demolition of the existing gymnasium is now underway. It’s inspiring to see the vision becoming reality, a space that will welcome more people, foster new connections, and strengthen our community for years to come.
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We’re also thrilled to share that the YMCA of Eastern Ontario has received $222,202 in funding through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, supported by the Government of Ontario. This investment will help us renovate the women’s and family changerooms at the Brockville YMCA, an important step in creating a more inclusive, comfortable, and positive experience for our members and the broader community.
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| Senior staff members with Brockville City Coucillors Katherine Hobbs and Louise Severson, MPP Steve Clark and CEO Rob Adams |
As we continue to grow, I’m delighted to share that Emily Wimpenny has returned from maternity leave and has been newly appointed as our Director of Philanthropy and Brand. Emily is a familiar face to many, having been part of the YMCA team for more than a decade. Her passion for community and proven leadership have been instrumental in helping us grow and strengthen our impact. In this new role, she’ll continue building meaningful connections and sharing the YMCA story across our region.
Emily can be reached at emily.wimpenny@eo.ymca.ca or 613-802-8887.
I want to thank you for continuing to believe in the YMCA and in the power of community. Together, we carry forward the same values that inspired generations before us: hope, compassion, and the belief that through service, we build a better future for all.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Rob Adams
CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario
