YMCA’s Back on Track Program Expands to East Hamilton with Support from Scotiabank
26-09-2025
As a new school year begins, the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is proud to announce the expansion of its youth intervention program, Back on Track, into East Hamilton.
Formerly known as Alternative Suspension, the refreshed program name reflects a renewed commitment to supporting young people in building skills, confidence, and brighter futures.
Thanks to the continued partnership with Scotiabank through ScotiaRISE, a new Back on Track site has opened at 211 Centennial Pkwy. N., bringing support to students from 18 additional Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) schools. Over the next two years, this expansion is expected to serve more than 160 students in East Hamilton alone.
This new site joins existing locations at 420 Crerar Drive in Hamilton and 100 Water St. in Brantford, ensuring more students across the region have access to support when they need it most.
Why the name change?
For more than 25 years, the program operated under the name Alternative Suspension. While it reflected the program’s roots, the word “suspension” carried a negative stigma. The new name—Back on Track—represents a more empowering, student-centered approach.
“Even with the word ‘alternative,’ ‘suspension’ still carried a negative connotation,” said Andrew Borrelli, Senior Director at the YMCAs of Québec, which founded the program. “We needed to reframe the program into something more positive—not just for students, but also for their families and schools.”
Today, Back on Track not only helps students who have been suspended, but also provides preventative support for those showing early signs of struggle. Through small group sessions, academic support, and one-on-one mentoring, students gain new tools to return to school stronger, more resilient, and better prepared to succeed.
Local impact that ignites potential
For the HWDSB, the program aligns closely with its goals to strengthen student engagement and well-being.
“Work with community partners, for example, the YMCA's Back on Track Program, supports students on short-term suspension, helps them develop strategies for success, and ensures they return to classroom learning with the skills needed to strengthen peer connections,” noted a recent HWDSB report.
The results speak volumes. In Ontario, 90% of youth who participate avoid future suspensions. Across Canada, 84% say they feel supported and prepared to return to school.
“Back on Track gives young people the chance to pause, reflect, and find new pathways to success,” said Kim Horan, General Manager of Youth Intervention Programs at YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford. “By working alongside families, schools, and our youth workers, we help students return with the skills and confidence they need to thrive. Together, we’re removing barriers to graduation and building brighter futures.”
For many students, Back on Track is more than just a break from challenges—it’s a turning point.
"This program made me think about my actions and how I can handle them better in the future,” said one youth participant.
Another young person had misconceptions about the program but was pleasantly surprised with the outcome.
"I thought this program was meant to punish me for my suspension, but it was actually pretty fun.”
With the expansion into East Hamilton, the YMCA and Scotiabank are ensuring more young people have access to the guidance, mentorship, and tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. As the 2025 school year begins, Back on Track is here to remind students and families across our community: when challenges arise, you don’t have to face them alone.
