In 1992, the United Nations (UN) declared December 3 the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD). IDPWD isn’t just a UN day; it’s a day for everyone — all people, organizations, and schools — because we all have a vital role to play in identifying and addressing discrimination, marginalization, exclusion, and inaccessibility that many ..read more

“Group fitness classes at the Y are like confetti,” says Sherry Perez, Manager of Program Development at the YMCA of Greater Toronto. “They make our approach to fitness feel like more than a workout; each class is a celebration of our community.” That’s part of what makes Y group fitness classes so special. Read on ..read more

“Treaties are not about giving rights to Indigenous Peoples, but rather, they are about recognizing and affirming the rights that Indigenous Peoples already have.” – Chief Wilton Littlechild As we step into Treaties Recognition Week — November 5–11, 2023 — it’s important to understand that this week isn’t just a formality; it’s a call to ..read more

It was the trip of a lifetime! In late July 2023, three youth participants from YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Black Achievers Mentorship Program – Nathanella, Nathan, and Jordan – travelled to the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly retreat centre in North Carolina, USA, where they represented our YMCA for a week at the international Y Achievers ..read more

Revised by Tia Morrison, 09/28/2023  At the end of every week, my daughter’s educator hands out gratitude certificates to every child. These certificates celebrate what the children are thankful for about one of their classmates.  “Thank you for being my reading partner this week and helping me sound out words.” “We’re lucky to have you ..read more

YMCA of Greater Toronto Child Care centres ignites curiosity and discovery in children who attend. Our centres offer activities based on the children’s interests, as recommended in our YMCA Playing to Learn™ and YMCA A Place to Connect™ curricula. When you look at an activity setup, you see fun: Toy boats in a tub of ..read more

Written by Jenna Robar, Manager of Indigenous Relationships The Indian Residential School Survivors Society is available to survivors and their families at any time. Please call 1-800-721-0066 or 1-866-925-4419 to access the 24-7 crisis line. You can find additional support via the First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Helpline at 1-855-242-3310. First Nations, Inuit ..read more

Written by Jenna Robar, Manager, Indigenous Relationships  This blog post is about a sensitive topic. Here are resources to help. Hope for Wellness Helpline: Indigenous-focused resources National Family and Survivors Circle: Comprised of Indigenous women from diverse backgrounds National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: Toll-free support telephone line 1-844-413-6649 myPlan Canada ..read more

Simplify school lunch prep with these time- and sanity-saving tricks ..read more

The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity, and it’s thanks to our incredible donors and volunteers that we can empower people with essential services, chances to better their lives, and a sense of community and belonging. Why I Give is a series designed to shine a spotlight on these incredible changemakers, sharing what inspires ..read more