At the YMCA of Three Rivers, we believe everyone has an inner spark waiting to ignite.
And in 2024, we saw so many sparks turn into flames, thanks to the unwavering support of our amazing community. You, our donors, members, volunteers and staff, are the reason we can offer diverse programs that empower people of all ages to discover their potential.
From new Canadians learning to swim and feeling at home in their community, to seniors finding connection and vitality, to families finding balance with quality childcare and enriching youth programs, the Y is about more than fitness; it's where friendships are formed, lives are transformed, and memories are made.
This is your YMCA of Three Rivers.
Message from our Board of Directors
Connection. It's in the smiles shared in fitness classes, a supportive hand for newcomers, and the friendships made at camp. These connections build our community, and we're so proud to volunteer at the YMCA of Three Rivers.
As a charity that ignites change, we're always looking forward, working to make our community brighter. But it’s important to celebrate what’s already been done.
Reading the 2024 Impact Report, we hope you feel a sense of ownership. It's a true team effort, and we're so proud of everyone who makes our Y shine: volunteers, staff, members, and the people we serve. Thank you for being part of the change.
Anne Eaton & Kelly Schultz
Chair and Vice-Chair, YMCA of Three Rivers Board of Directors
By the Numbers
Behind every statistic we share is a story you helped write. United by a shared vision for our community, the generous donors, enthusiastic members, dedicated staff and passionate volunteers at your Y are making a difference.
Here’s a glimpse of what was achieved together in 2024.
3,618
children from 2,797 families in Child Care
23.204
people served in EarlyON programs
4,531
unique individuals enjoyed our Camp programs
100,706
students on average fed every school day within our Student Nutrition Program
1,484
clients served in Employment Services with 80% gaining employment
13,618
clients served in Immigrant Services
35,923
members served in Health & Wellness
5,684
financially assisted members
(1,997 youth)
1,971
participants in Health Management
27,079
Youth Program touch points
85,000
Employee & Member Insights Surveys completed
$1.8M+
raised in donations and support
Donors Make it Possible
It would be impossible to share our impact without celebrating our incredible donors. Thanks to our generous community, who contributed over $1.5 million in 2023, more children can ignite their potential, more families can find the support they need, and more individuals can thrive.
A special thank you to those who donate to our Greatest Needs Fund. From fueling a wide range of programs to keeping the lights on and the pool full of water, gifts to this fund give us the flexibility to use the money where it is needed most.
As we look forward to 2024, we are so grateful for the continued generosity of the individual, staff, foundation, government, and corporate supporters who continue to help fuel our mission.
Thank you! Because of you, the YMCA of Three Rivers can continue to show up, offering programs that brighten the futures of individuals and families at every stage of life.
1000+
Generous Donors
476
Volunteers
35,000+
Members
The Donor Difference
Every Dollar Counts!
$76k+
Raised from donations of $150 or less.
18%
Increase in unique donors over 2022.
$700k+
Donated to support our greatest needs in 2023.
As parents of two children under the age of 4, we have experienced first-hand how difficult it can be to access to quality childcare services regardless of household means. With the birth of our second child, and having recently read Dr. Peter Attia’s book Outlive, personal fitness has become a priority for us as we look to maximize the decades ahead. Joining the Guelph Y on a family membership has enabled us to reach our personal goals such that we can show up for the duties of parenting as our healthiest selves and set positive examples for our kids.
Supporting the Y in our annual giving was a no-brainer given their mission to serve as broad a swath of our community as possible, allowing more families somewhere safe to be together and benefit from good health."
— Ben Cullen
Explore our Programs
The YMCA of Three Rivers remains steadfast in its commitment to sparking potential for all. Through a diverse range of programs designed to empower individuals and families at every stage of life, we're fostering positive change and growth within our community.
Explore the impact of our program areas below:
Child Care
With programing based on the latest research in child development and rooted in community engagement, the YMCA of Three Rivers is proud to provide exceptional child care. We’re committed to improving accessibility for families across our communities, providing peace of mind and ensuring bright, engaging environments for children to grow and discover.
2024 Highlights
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We continue to invest in the professional development and supporting our Child Care Leaders. In 2024 we were able to offer Mental Health First Aid certification, enhancing their ability to build caring and supportive environments that meet the needs of both the children and the child care team.
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Building on the success of our Waterloo Region programs, we worked with Wellington County to start an access program in the County. The program reserves a percentage of spaces for subsidy families, increasing accessibility for the community.
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Our Wellington County centres went live on OneHSN, an online system used to streamline the process of finding and applying for licensed Child Care. This was a big step forward to help the community and families manage the wait lists for care.
EarlyON
EarlyON Centres are community hubs that ignite potential in families and children. YMCA of Three Rivers is an EarlyON Operator in Stratford and Lead Agency delivering EarlyON Child and Family Centres in Waterloo Region. Free to all Ontario families, Centres offer play-based learning, expert advice, and connections to other parents. In 2024, we focused on expanding our reach and deepening our community partnerships to provide even greater support.
2024 Highlights
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EarlyON opened doors at the Stratford YMCA and the SERC YMCA Child Care in January and in the first month alone welcomed 297 people into these new locations.
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Waterloo Region boosted family support by increasing the availability of onsite resources and the development of new community tools and lines of communication for families with unique needs. This was supported by a returning partnership with KidsAbility and a new partnership with Special Needs Resourcing in Waterloo Region and developing new partnerships in Stratford with Community Health Teams, La Leche League and Resource Consultants.
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New mobile sites were added in the Waterloo Region Townships, Stratford and in Cambridge to better serve our communities.
Early Learning Child Care Navigators
EYCC Navigators, funded by Region of Waterloo Community Services, assist families in accessing Early Years and Child Care Services. They provide information on licensed child care, help with subsidy applications, aid in applying for child care through OneList Waterloo Region, and support in accessing other resources like special needs support and EarlyOn Child and Family Centres.
2024 Highlights
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908 adults and 701 children were supported by the EYCC Navigator program in 2024.
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The EYCC Navigator team worked closely with YMCA Child Care and the Region of Waterloo Subsidy Access Pilot to create a process and pathway to quickly identify subsidy spaces available and to match families to these spaces.
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The team has increasingly referred families to home child care programs resulting in three children being placed into Home Child Care through the subsidy access pilot in December alone.
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The Early Learning and Child Care Navigators service contract with the Region of Waterloo has been extended to December 31, 2025.
What I appreciate most is the personalized attention given to each child. The caregivers take the time to understand my daughter's unique interests, strengths, and areas for growth. They tailor activities and guidance to suit her individual needs, fostering a sense of confidence and self-discovery. Beyond the exceptional care provided...We've had the opportunity to connect with other parents and witness the genuine camaraderie that exists within the daycare's supportive environment.”
— Child Care Parent
Camp
We are proud to be a leader in providing valuable camp and outdoor recreation experiences for people of all ages since 1924. Our camps inspire a love and stewardship of the outdoors, build skills and confidence, and nurture belonging. YMCA Camp is a place to return: You are welcome today, tomorrow, and 50 years from now, as a camper, camper family, camp staff, or camp alumni.
The Donor Difference
$170,000+
to Camp Operations
$30,000+
to Camper Fee Assistance
2024 Highlights
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Through our land-sharing agreement, Camp Ki-Wa-Y became an official site partner of Crow Shield Lodge, welcoming traditional Indigenous lodges and land-based programs for all nations. This meaningful partnership strengthens our commitment to reconciliation and builds a foundation for shared learning and growth.
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YMCA Camp Ki-Wa-Y celebrated 100 years in 2024! Our centennial reinforced community bonds and underscored our commitment to adventure, belonging, and environmental stewardship. This milestone not only celebrated our rich history but also brought the community together, envisioning what’s possible for future generations.
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Thanks to a collaboration with 11 community agencies and the generous support of hundreds of Y donors, the YMCA of Three Rivers staff provided vital camp subsidies to over 600 campers, ensuring every child had the opportunity to experience the joy of camp.
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Thanks to the support of Y donors, 29 newcomer children were able to attend camp and experience its life-changing impact.
A Special Celebration
On June 15th, we gathered with hearts full of gratitude and excitement to acknowledge 100 years of camping at Camp Ki-Wa-Y. Over 300 campers past and present, alumni, friends of camp and visitors joined us to celebrate. The day was designed for folks to come together and enjoy the beauty of Ki-Wa-Y, walk down memory lane, and connect with friends – old and new.
We were enormously proud to welcome our partners from Crow Shield Lodge and introduce them during our opening ceremonies. It was a day for the memory books – filled with laughter, sunshine, great stories, and good old camp fun for everyone.
Student Nutrition Program
Children who struggle academically, have trouble focusing, exhibit behavioral challenges, or lack energy throughout the school day are often facing a simple but critical barrier: hunger. Research consistently shows that proper nutrition is fundamental to student success. As a Lead Agency, the YMCA of Three Rivers provides leadership for over 650 Student Nutrition Ontario programs across Wellington/Dufferin/Guelph, Halton, Peel, and Waterloo Regions.
The Donor Difference
$170,000+
to Student Nutrition
In 2024 our Student Nutrition Programs proudly:
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Served 694 schools
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Fed 100,706 students on average fed every school day
Alternative Suspension
The YMCA Alternative Suspension Program provides a transformative experience for youth who are suspended or at risk of suspension from school. We aim to turn these challenging periods into opportunities for personal growth, fostering resilience, independence, and positive decision-making skills. By offering a safe and supportive environment, we empower students to overcome obstacles, build self-esteem, and develop essential social skills that support their successful return to and engagement with school.
The Donor Difference
$get number to Alternative Suspension
2024 Highlights
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Launched our second location of the Alternative Suspension Program at the A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA in partnership with the Waterloo Catholic District School Board.
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The Alternative Suspension program has accepted 62 students from the Waterloo Catholic District School Board so far this school year
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21 Elementary and High Schools within the Waterloo Catholic District School Board have partnered with Alternative Suspension this year to prepare and boost student's confidence in their return to school.
I loved the Y program, it was great and you guys are awesome. Really understanding and welcoming, I felt like I could talk and not be judged and work through my problems with your help and bring the things I learned back to school with me and use in my life too.”
— Alternative Suspension Participant
Youth Programs
New friends, new skills, and new confidence. Our diverse range of programs catering to both general interests and identity groups including 2SLGBTQ+, Black, and Newcomer Youth, strives to offer something for ALL youth in our region. In 2024 we worked behind the scenes to ensure our youth programs remain sustainable and reflect the needs of our communities.
The Donor Difference
$350,000+ to Youth Programs
2024 Highlights
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Hosted March Break events across our 5 communities providing to 650 youth throughout the week. Events included a Basketball Tournament at Chaplin Family YMCA and Stork Family YMCA, Youth Volleyball in Guelph, a JHO event, a trip to the KW Titans games, Safe Sisters events, TAPPs events, Newcomer youth events, Moving Black Lives Forward – Black History Month event, a FIFA Tournament at ARK, and more!
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Our youth participants in Moving Black Lives Forward applied the skills they gained through the program to develop a project that serves youth in Waterloo Region. Their initiative was recognized with a $7,300 award, highlighting their dedication and impact on the community.
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Provided Newcomer Camp youth leaders with first aid training to support their future employment pursuits in Canada.
I come to the YMCA to make new friends and participate in the girls' sports program, where I get to explore different activities like Volleyball, Soccer & boxing! The YMCA is a welcoming space where I feel comfortable asking questions, and they always provide great opportunities. I also enjoy cooking and learning about different cultural foods—I’ve had the chance to try new dishes, learn how to make them, and even cook them at home”
— Khadija, Youth Program Participant
Employment Services
Connecting employers and job seekers – that’s the goal of YMCA Employment Services. Whether you’re looking to develop job search skills, apply for training, create a resume and cover letter, or prepare for an interview, our employment specialists are here to help you every step of the way. We provide a wide range of free and personalized services to help overcome some of the barriers in entering the labour market.
2024 Highlights
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We were chosen by Serco (our Service System Manager for Employment Ontario) as a model site within the Kitchener-Waterloo-Barrie catchment and participated in a roadshow where we shared our transformation successes and insights to date.
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Employment services staff were active in the community, hosting job fairs and participating in delivering info sessions to job seekers at the request of two community organizations - Muslim Social Services of Waterloo Region and Camino Wellbeing and Mental Health.
Immigrant Services
The Y is a place where everyone belongs. Thanks to the generous support from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (Immigration, Réfugiés et Citoyenneté Canada) and our other funders, we provide free services for all newcomers in Stratford-Perth and Waterloo Region. Our team helps with language assessments, school, employment and more, so newcomers can feel at home.
The Donor Difference
$106,670 to The Newcomer Journey
2024 Highlights
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The Immigrant Services team partnered to offer income tax clinics to Government Assisted Refugees (GAR) in their first year in Canada. We received a list of over 500 individuals and supported with completing 565 returns.
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Our Health Clinics continued to be offered in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge and in partnership with Huron Perth Public Health were expanded to the Stratford YMCA.
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Over 400 individuals registered for our Summer English Conversation Circles. This program provides newcomers with an opportunity to meet other newcomers, make new friends, learn about Waterloo and Stratford Region, and build confidence while practicing their spoken English or French.
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We held incredible Newcomer Theatre performances where students shared their incredible stories. This partnership with MT Space continues to showcase the power of the arts and gives many students the confidence to use their voice.
When I signed up for the GCI Newcomer Theatre Project, I was unsure if I could do it and was ready to opt-out quickly. Never had I imagined that I would be performing on stage in front of so many people, especially in a language (English) that was new to me. However, after attending the first two sessions, everything changed. Gary and Lily from MTSpace, along with my teacher Ms. Adesso, created an environment that was supportive and encouraging. They worked tirelessly to help me develop my skills and build my confidence. Being part of this project has been a life-changing experience for me. It not only improved my public speaking abilities, but I also gained a newfound sense of self-assurance. As a newcomer youth, I felt my voice was heard and valued. This project has empowered me to express myself more freely and to embrace new challenges with confidence.
— Raniah, Galt Collegiate Institute+ Newcomer Youth Theatre Project Participant
YMCA WorkWell
Our commitment to holistic well-being extends beyond what happens in our buildings and programs. YMCA WorkWell works both internally and with community organizations and businesses to create supportive workplace cultures where employees feel seen, valued and appreciated. Using data-driven insights and tailored solutions we help unlock each team's full potential, building a more resilient and engaged workforce.
2024 Highlights
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We continued and expanded our partnership with YMCA Canada, collecting Employee Insights, Member Insights, and Child Care Insights from YMCAs across Canada.
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We launched our WorkWell Community Hub - a place where WorkWell partners across the country can access resources, share stories, and discuss how to create healthier workplaces and communities.
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Partnering with Y Canada, we presented our national Child Care employee and participant experience data to the Federal Government to advocate for the child care sector in Canada and the challenges that the sector is facing.
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We released our sixth Workplace Well-Being Report, focusing specifically on employee well-being in the nonprofit sector.(https://www.ymcaworkwell.com/insights-to-impact-2024)
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We worked with 70 organizations in 2024, including 36 of the 37 YMCAs in
Canada.
See how WorkWell can make a difference for your organization
Working with the YMCA WorkWell team has been a knowledge-building, rewarding and insightful process. Their reports bring our workplace culture to life — making it easier to identify both short and longer-term actions to drive positive change. The WorkWell team is comprised of experts who are approachable and so willing to share their knowledge and to help us be the best leaders we can be for our own teams. From insights surveys and reports, to leadership coaching and professional learning programs, YMCA WorkWell is the partner you didn't know you needed. So, fine tune your budget, or get a grant, and start your journey to a healthy workplace culture with this amazing team!”
— RisingOaks
Health & Wellness
It’s our goal to create a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages and abilities to reach their health and wellness goals. Through a variety of programs, from fitness centers to group fitness classes, we empower members to live a healthier, more vibrant life.
The Donor Difference
$46,000+
to Health & Wellness
$16,000+
to Member Fee Assistance
2023 Highlights
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2023 marked a significant milestone for our Health and Wellness division, with peak monthly membership reaching a post-pandemic high of 18,377 individuals and nearly 36,000 members served overall.
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With a focus on water safety and building self-esteem 1,140 children participated in our nationally recognized swimming lessons.
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We remained committed to community well-being offering financial membership assistance to over 5,500 individuals.
Health Management
Our health management programs are about empowering you to take control of your well-being. Whether you’re experiencing a chronic condition and need support, are looking to change your lifestyle to include healthy habits, or want to meet new friends, our evidence-based programs are designed to help individuals at risk of, or living with, chronic illness continue to live actively.
In 2024, thanks to strong partnerships, we expanded our reach to help even more people thrive.
The Donor Difference
$133,000+ to Health Management
2024 Highlights
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With support from the Government of Ontario, KW4 OHT, and Sun Life Financial, we successfully delivered 20 Diabetes Fit programs, engaging 250 participants across five locations and a virtual option.
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To enhance community engagement and outreach, we expanded our network of community contacts—including healthcare providers, pharmacies, faith groups, and community organizations—who refer and share program information within their networks, with a particular focus on increasing participation from equity-deserving and underserved groups.
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We launched a new diabetes prevention program called "Small Steps to Big Changes" at the A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA. In partnership with UBC, YMCA Canada, and Diabetes Canada this program is part of a large-scale research project to help prevent type-2 diabetes.
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141 individuals from Chaplin Family YMCA, A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA and our Guelph location participated in our neuro based and accessible exercise support programs including Neuro Fit, Rock Steady Boxing and Wellness Centre Support. Individuals who participate in these programs are living with conditions including MS, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, spinal cord injury and physical disabilities.
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Partnering with the Alzheimer's Society and University of Waterloo, we delivered 3 sessions of DELIGHT, an 8-week program supporting people living with dementia and their caregivers. We continue to partner with the Alzheimer’s Society to provide Minds in Motion® at the Chaplin Family YMCA and Stork Family YMCA locations.
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In 2024, focused on enriching connection and well-being for seniors, we implemented a bi-monthly ‘Active Seniors Connection’ at our Stork Family YMCA and Stratford centers with support from the Government of Ontario.
I started at the Y in April 2023 through the Diabetes Fit class with Marsha (who is awesome). My doctor had noticed my sugar levels rising and, whilst I was not diabetic, she recommended the Y program as she thought I'd really benefit from it. When the 3 month program ended, I registered for a Y membership and carried on with my fitness classes and independent workouts. I consistently take 3 "move together" classes with Carrie each week plus a yoga class and I love my classes. Carrie's classes in particular are invaluable. She is an outstanding leader and makes you want to never miss a class. No wonder wait lists happen. It's cliche but Carrie makes fitness fun.
Between the knowledge I gained from the Diabetes Fit program plus my continued fitness classes at the Y, my sugars are now back to normal and I feel really well...”
— Diabetes Fit Participant
JAIDE
Throughout 2024, the YMCA of Three Rivers has built significant momentum in our JAIDE (Justice, Access, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity) journey, transitioning from our initial 2022 Action Plan to a more comprehensive approach. Our JAIDE journey remains grounded in the principle that "progress outweighs perfection." We continue to listen, learn, and act with intention, creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential, regardless of their background or identity.
The Donor Difference
$30,000 to JAIDE
2024 Highlights
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Continue to promote inclusive language and removed gender designations for our membership system.
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Established Rainbow Family drop-in programs at our EarlyON centers.
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Created a Smudging framework for our spaces.
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Introduced website translation for multiple languages.
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Completed a Change Room & Washroom Inclusivity Assessment Framework in partnership with members and employees with lived experience and made capital renovation improvements for change room spaces at our Chaplin Family YMCA and Stratford centres.
He left the pool at ARK and rushed into the changeroom to meet his mom, so excited. She asked what the excitement was all about and he told her his swim instructor wore a hijab. He had never seen a swim instructor who looked like him (he doesn't wear a hijab, but identifies as a person of colour). In mom's words, "representation matters."
— Swim participant story as told to staff
Message from our CEO
2024 has been another year of growth, resilience, and impact for the YMCA of Three Rivers. As we reflect on the past twelve months, it’s clear that our mission to strengthen communities has never been more critical—or more fulfilling.
In the preparatory work of building our next strategic plan, I spent a lot of time consulting with our community, engaging our partner agencies and fellow Y associations, and listening to staff, volunteer and donors. There was a strong theme around how we are part of the critical social infrastructure of our communities, and lots of appreciation for impact we have locally.
But there was also worry. This is a challenging time for our community; families are struggling with affordability, physical and mental health are deteriorating faster than our health care system can keep up and the economy can't support nonprofits the way we need.
Although our Strategic Plan will be officially unveiled in 2025, the work is already underway. Guided by your feedback, we’ve started laying the foundation for bold initiatives that will help us continue to serve the Three Rivers region. I’m excited to see the impact we can create together as we bring this vision to life.
Because of you, we are not only bridging gaps but also building bridges—creating connections that will shape brighter futures for generations to come.