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Peter Tolias, age 31, has
been running a successful landscaping business in
Mississauga for more than 12 years. He tells us he knows
well that he would not have started his career without
the support of his local YMCA of Mississauga.
“When I finished high
school, I didn’t know what I was good at or what I
should do. But I did know I’ve been with the YMCA since
I was eight. The people there knew me and cared about me
and perhaps I should listen to them,” said Peter.
Peter took advantage of the
subsidized career counselling service at the YMCA.
Unlike any career coaching services, Peter received some
uniquely personal advice that he took to heart. He
uncovered his talent in landscaping and committed to
making it into a career.
The YMCA of Mississauga has
always been a big part of Peter’s life. Growing up in a
family of six children, Peter joined the YMCA when he
was eight, spending many happy moments playing squash
with his father and making friends with other children.
When Peter’s family faced financial difficulties and
could no longer afford him to stay at the YMCA, he
received an assisted membership and payment plan from
the charity to help him stay, thanks to the funds raised
by the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
As Peter grew up, the YMCA
continued to be an anchor, especially when he became
involved with the wrong crowd for a period of time in
his youth.
“It’s a scary thought
where I would have ended up without the YMCA,”
said Peter. “The Y had a 100 per cent impact on my
life. I knew my friends at the YMCA would always welcome
me with open arms.”
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Approximately 30 per cent of Mississauga’s 11,000+ YMCA
members receive financial aid. These families rely on
the YMCA to provide a safe and caring environment for
their children to begin a positive, healthy and
productive life.
Peter is now an avid supporter of these families and of
the YMCA because he understands first hand the impact
that this charity has on his community.
Every year, Peter enjoys raising funds and donating to
the YMCA. He also hires youth from the YMCA Employment
Centre and young people living with disabilities.
“I see myself in these kids. They need a chance and a
positive role model in their lives. I’m grateful I can
be part of the YMCAs mission,” said Peter. “If you want
your money to make a difference, the YMCA Strong Kids
Campaign is an excellent option,” Peter says. “I’m a
walking example of what the Y can do.”
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