About the YMCA

As a charity that’s over 150 years old, the YMCA continues to serve all ages, backgrounds and abilities through all stages of life. We have been dedicated to helping people attain good health through a healthy lifestyle and encouraging them to get involved in making their community a better place for everyone.

Today, 45 YMCAs and 8 YMCA-YWCAs are dedicated to healthy living and well being impacting Canadians of all backgrounds, abilities and stages of life. The YMCA in Canada serves more than 1.9 million people including, 830,200 children and youth under the age of 17. The YMCA in Canada is dedicated to the growth of all persons in spirit, mind and body, and to foster a sense of responsibility to each other and the global community. YMCA programs include: youth employment; community outreach; newcomer services; health, fitness and recreation; international development; child care; and day and resident camping.

The YMCA is for Everyone

At the YMCA, we believe that everyone should be able to participate in programs they need regardless of their ability to pay the full fees. That’s because the YMCA is open to everyone — all ages, backgrounds, abilities and financial circumstances. To reach as many people as we can, the YMCA offers financial assistance to those who would otherwise be unable to benefit from its services.

The YMCA Builds People

It’s for this reason that the YMCA is committed to improving the lives of children and families in our communities by providing safe places, caring and trained volunteers and staff, and programs that teach life skills. Whether it’s a place to go after school, a place to learn leadership skills, or a place for the family to play and connect, the YMCA is there. It’s what we do to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.