Welcome back! News & Fire Truck Pull Rob's Blog

Dear Friends of the YMCA:

Welcome back after what I hope has been a wonderful summer. It is always great to see so many new and returning faces filling the Y! Covid continues to impact the workforce with shortages in many sectors including in fitness and childcare. This has caused waiting lists as we continue to restore our staff capacity. On behalf of my team, I thank you for your understanding and support during this phase of rebuilding.

Last week, we heard the news of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. We send our sympathies for the loss of a world leader who for 72 years exemplified duty and steadfastness. As she said in an early address: "I cannot lead you into battle, I do not give you laws or administer justice, but I can do something else: I can give you my heart and my devotion to these old islands and to all the peoples of our brotherhood of nations."

While we are saddened by the Queen’s passing, we must also recognize that the experiences of many Indigenous and other communities may be quite different and complex. There is a larger conversation to be had and we must remain mindful of the impacts of the monarchy on our neighbours.

As the Ontario Government has announced that Monday, September 19 will not be a holiday, the YMCA will be open for normal business hours.

In other news…

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day will be celebrated on Friday, September 30. The YMCA has partnered with the Orange Shirt Society and will be selling t-shirts beginning on Tuesday, September 20 for $21 + HST with all proceeds going to the society. Last year, YMCAs raised more than $70,000 for the Orange Shirt Society! Please join us in wearing an orange t-shirt on September 30 as a symbol that every child matters.

George E. Smith Memorial Fire Truck Pull

The George E. Smith Memorial Fire Truck Pull is almost here. Register your team to see if you’re strong enough to pull a fire truck and get bragging rights for a full year! Come and meet Harley the horse from our partners, Burnbrae Farms and watch for our online auction, which is new this year. Money raised goes to our financial assistance program, which provides subsidies to people in our communities, ensuring that ability to pay is not a barrier to one’s ability to access healthy programs, safe spaces and positive relationships. I hope to see you on October 15 at Brockville YMCA.

New courts at Brockville YMCA

Although global supply shortages have caused a bit of a delay on the renovations of our courts, I am pleased to announce that work is well underway and we expect to have this renewed area open in October.

 

As always, please reach out if you have any questions or comments. I am always happy to hear from our members and supporters.

Rob Adams
CEO, YMCA of Eastern Ontario