YMCA HBB Receives 2026 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award
YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford (YMCA HBB) has been named the recipient of the 2026 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award at the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards.
While the award recognizes organizational leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, YMCA HBB leadership says the recognition belongs first and foremost to staff across the Association.
“This award reflects the commitment our staff demonstrate every day across programs, services, and communities,” said Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO of YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford. “Their work creates spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. We are incredibly proud of the care, professionalism, and compassion they bring to our communities.”
The Chamber award recognizes organizations that actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, create opportunities for belonging, and demonstrate leadership in social responsibility.
YMCA HBB’s submission highlighted how DEI principles are embedded into daily operations, program design, people practices, and community partnerships. Programs and services support newcomers and refugees, Indigenous communities, children and youth, seniors, individuals with disabilities, low-income families, and individuals experiencing housing insecurity.
The submission also highlighted several initiatives that reduce barriers to participation, including newcomer settlement services, licensed childcare, youth mental wellness supports, transitional housing, YMCA Beyond the Bell®, inclusive camp programming, and financial assistance exceeding $1 million annually.
In the CEO award video prepared for the Business Excellence Awards gala, Figueiredo emphasized that equity is embedded into YMCA HBB’s operational approach.
“Equity is not a program. It is how we design services, allocate resources, and measure impact,” he said.
The organization also noted measurable community impact in 2025, including more than 95,000 individuals served across YMCA programs and services, with more than one-third accessing financial assistance or subsidy supports.
The YMCA’s culture of inclusion extends internally through employee-led engagement initiatives, leadership development, flexible workplace supports, and ongoing learning opportunities designed to strengthen belonging, psychological safety, and accountability across the organization.
“This recognition reinforces what our teams already understand,” added Figueiredo. “When people feel they belong, communities become stronger, healthier, and more connected.”
The award was presented as part of the 42nd Annual Business Excellence Awards hosted by the Brantford-Brant Chamber of Commerce.
