Explore how YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is measuring and delivering meaningful impact across our communities.
View the Impact at a Glance Report
A new approach to understanding impact
YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is consistently measuring and reporting on outcomes aligned with our strategic priorities: Young People, Employees, and Seniors.
Impact at a Glance provides a clear snapshot of the difference the YMCA is making. It reflects a shift from participation alone to measurable change, grounded in the experiences of the people we serve every day.
Our approach uses validated tools and consistent data collection to track change over time and strengthen how we deliver programs across our Association.
A closer look: Building resilience at YMCA Wanakita
One example of this impact comes from our work with young people at YMCA Wanakita.
The Student Counsellor Leadership Program is designed to build resilience and develop future leaders. Using the Resilience Scale for Children™, participants completed a short survey at the beginning and end of their session to measure change over time.
What we’re seeing:
Youth resilience is increasing, with scores rising from 34.9 to 35.9, moving from “developing” to “growing”
Returning participants show even greater gains, reinforcing the value of sustained YMCA experiences
Strong relationships and meaningful responsibility contribute to lasting confidence and growth
Resilience develops through experience, relationships, and a strong sense of belonging. At Wanakita, participants take on real leadership roles, build supportive connections, and grow through a clear progression over time.
A closer look: Building resilience at YMCA Wanakita
One example of this impact comes from our work with young people at YMCA Wanakita.
The Student Counsellor Leadership Program is designed to build resilience and develop future leaders. Using the Resilience Scale for Children™, participants completed a short survey at the beginning and end of their session to measure change over time.
What we’re seeing:
Youth resilience is increasing, with scores rising from 34.9 to 35.9, moving from “developing” to “growing”
Returning participants show even greater gains, reinforcing the value of sustained YMCA experiences
Strong relationships and meaningful responsibility contribute to lasting confidence and growth
Resilience develops through experience, relationships, and a strong sense of belonging. At Wanakita, participants take on real leadership roles, build supportive connections, and grow through a clear progression over time.
From participation to measurable change
From participation to measurable change
Across the YMCA, impact is not only about how many people we serve, but about how lives are changed.
Our programs create environments where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. These are the conditions that help resilience grow and strengthen well-being across our communities.
The Wanakita results represent one example of the meaningful work happening every day across YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford.
What’s included in the report
Impact at a Glance brings together:
Outcome measurement across our strategic priorities
Program-level data and insights
Real examples of impact from across the YMCA
A foundation for ongoing evaluation and continuous improvement
Explore the full report
Impact at a Glance highlights the measurable, life-changing impact of the YMCA for our community, partners, and supporters.
Looking ahead
This work will continue to be shared through the Wayne Perkins Leadership Centre campaign and in Koshlong Current, helping connect our impact with the broader community and those who support it.
