YMCA Community Impact Event Highlights the Power of Belonging, Partnership and Collective Impact
BURLINGTON, Ont. — YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford brought together community leaders, partners, volunteers and supporters on June 11 at Culaccino Bar + Kitchen to celebrate the power of belonging, resilience and community connection—and to share new insights from its latest impact reporting.
The Community Impact Event highlighted findings from the YMCA’s 2025 Community Impact Report and 2026 Annual Operating Plan Q1 results, demonstrating how intentional programs and services are helping people overcome barriers and thrive.
Elected representatives and local leaders joined the YMCA in recognizing the strength of the Burlington community and the importance of partnership in building inclusive, connected spaces where everyone can thrive.
The YMCA was honoured to be joined by Natalie Pierre, MPP for Burlington; Gary Carr, Chair of Halton Region; Marianne Meed Ward, Mayor of Burlington; along with members of Burlington City Council.
Their presence reflected a shared commitment across all levels of government to supporting community well-being and ensuring access to opportunities for individuals and families across the region. The event also celebrated the many volunteers, donors, partners and supporters who help make this work possible every day. The YMCA is grateful for the continued support and collaboration that helps strengthen our communities and expand access to programs that make a meaningful difference.
From Participation to Impact
The findings shared reflect the YMCA’s continued evolution from measuring participation to understanding impact—combining data with outcome measurement to better understand how programs are changing lives.
In 2025:
More than 95,000 people accessed YMCA programs and services across Hamilton, Burlington, Brantford and beyond.
Over 33,500 participants accessed free, subsidized or funded opportunities
More than 56,000 children and youth participated in programs
Seniors reported a strong sense of connection and belonging, with a connection score of 89
Youth participating in the YMCA Wanakita Student Counsellor Leadership Program demonstrated measurable gains in resilience.
Key Burlington Highlights (2025)
- Almost 12,000 YMCA participants from Burlington, with more than 4,000 receiving enabled access.
- Almost 7,000 were young people (ages 0-29), with 2,721 receiving enabled access.
- More than 3,312 participants, with 1,114 receiving enabled access.
- Over 1,705 YMCA program participants were Burlington community members ages 65+, with 224 receiving enabled access.
- The YMCA is Burlington's largest child care provider with 256 children (ages 0–3.8 years) enrolled in full-day child care, and 2,171 children enrolled in before- and after-school programs
The momentum has continued into 2026. In the first quarter alone, more than 52,000 people participating in YMCA programs and services across our regions, alongside an expansion of outcome measurement across youth, employee and older adult programs to better understand how participation turns into lasting impact.
“Every day we see the difference connection can make in someone's life,” said Manny Figueiredo, President and CEO of YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford. “When people feel supported and included, they are more likely to thrive. These insights help us better understand not only who we are reaching, but how lives are changing as a result.”
A Collective Effort
The Community Impact Event was a reflection of the collective efforts that make this work possible.
“The YMCA’s impact is made possible through the dedication of our staff, volunteers, donors and partners,” said Figueiredo. “Together, we are creating spaces where people can belong, build resilience and reach their fullest potential.”
Learn More
Explore the reports and learn more about YMCA impact in our communities:
