Dear Members and Friends of the YMCA of Eastern Ontario,
As we move into the summer season, I hope you’re enjoying time outdoors and connecting with those closest to you. These simple pleasures, time with family and friends, fresh air, and community, are powerful for our mental and physical well-being. They’re also at the heart of what we offer at the Y.
Earlier this year, we launched our annual Inspire the Future Campaign, with a fundraising goal of $435,000 to ensure that everyone in our communities can access healthy programs in safe, inclusive spaces.
To date, we’ve raised $152,250, which brings us to 35% of our goal. This milestone that would not be possible without your generosity.
We’re also excited to share that for the months of June and July, the Estate of Larry Gibson will once again match donations up to $50,000. This incredible gift doubles the impact of your donation and helps us reach even more people in need. If you haven’t yet made your gift, now is a great time to do so.
Your Impact at Work
We were honoured to be selected once again as the local charity for McHappy Day in Kingston and Gananoque. Thanks to the efforts of YMCA staff, volunteers, and board members who rolled up their sleeves alongside McDonald’s teams, we raised $36,087. Funds raised will help send kids to camp this summer.
Pictured above: Rob Adams CEO YMCA of Eastern Ontario with the team from McDonalds: Mary Howlett Director of Operations, John Mundell Operations consultant, Katrina Ryce People Lead, Scott Garrison Operations consultant Todd Shea Owner.
And the impact goes even further. Thanks to your support, 2024 was a year of meaningful impact. The full scope of what you’ve helped accomplish is outlined in our Annual Report. I encourage you to take a look you’ll see the real-world difference your generosity has made.
Capital Project Update
We’re also excited to share that preparation for the gymnasium expansion at our Brockville location is underway, with perimeter fencing going up and equipment being delivered. This is a major step forward in improving our spaces to better serve our growing community.
If you’d like to learn more about the project or explore how you might support it, please reach out to anna.hudson@eo.ymca.ca to set up a time to meet with me.
Upcoming Events
We have some exciting fundraising events on the horizon that are great opportunities to come together in support of our cause.
Inspire the Future Pickleball Tournament
July 19 | 9 a.m. | Brockville YMCA
Join us for this new tournament on our beautiful new courts. Proceeds support vital programs and our financial assistance fund.
Gord Brown Memorial Golf Tournament
August 14 | Smuggler’s Glen Golf Course
Although player spots are filled, sponsorships opportunities remain, some with golfing spots.
Paul F. Fournier Memorial Fire Truck Pull
10th Anniversary!
October 18 | Brockville YMCA
Rally your team or cheer from the sidelines as we celebrate 11 years of pulling together for community. Enjoy music, kids' activities, food, and more!
The World You Help Create
When you give to the YMCA, you’re doing more than making a donation you’re inspiring the future of individuals and families, and strengthening the fabric of our region.
Here’s what some of our members have shared:
"I feel like everyone’s accepted and there’s no judgement, no matter where you’re at with your fitness. The Y feels like a safe, welcoming place where I can focus on my health, try new things, and feel supported every step of the way."
“This was our daughter’s first year attending Y summer camp and I was very impressed. I used to work at a camp so I have higher then average expectations and YMCA did not disappoint. So many wonderful activities were organized, and the staff were super friendly. We will be back next year!”
“YMCA Childcare staff act as a second family, coming from a home with zero support it's nice to know I have a community of folks who can answer my questions in a non-judgemental way.”
These are just a few examples of the world you help make possible. Thank you for continuing to support our mission and for believing in the power of community.
With gratitude,
Rob Adams
CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario
