YMCA Stories

When 19-year-old Elham Yadgari arrived in Canada from Afghanistan in June 2023, he was stepping into a world of uncertainty.

By a Beyond the Bell™ Facilitator

Ashley LaingRole: Wanakita Alumni Relations OfficerWhat was your first experience with the YMCA: Over 20 years ago I had my first full time YMCA job running day camps for the Toronto YMCA

There’s a place at YMCA Wanakita like no other. Sitting along the shore of Koshlong Lake in between Kids Camp and Family Camp, is a reflective walking sanctuary as well as an area for the performing arts. It was built in honour of a Family Camper who loved to perform.

Twelve-year-old Olivia Hagan has a special place in her heart for Camp Wanakita—and it shows in her art.

John Cuddie is a Y kid through and through. “I was probably seven or eight doing the gym and swim program at the Hamilton Y, where I grew up. I went every Saturday morning , and I eventually became a Y leader.”

Nearly 100 community members gathered in Brantford on Wednesday, May 7 for an inspiring morning highlighting the YMCA impact in the community.

In the summer of 1954, a ten-year-old Wayne Perkins arrived at YMCA Camp Wakonda in Saskatchewan.  

It’s A Comeback 25 Years In The MakingGraham Cubitt hasn’t played hockey since he was 19 years old. That was when he tripped on a breakaway and found himself flying into the boards, smashing his kneecap and any dream he had of playing hockey.