Why The Y

Many years ago, I had the privilege of being sponsored to spend two weeks in Honey Harbour at Camp Queen Elizabeth. For our family, this was beyond our financial scope.

Beginnings in TigrayI was born in Tigray, in the horn of Africa. It’s a region that has never been colonized or conquered. Despite this, war has been a part of this region for hundreds of years off and on – which is the reason my family and I left. To this day, I suffer from PTSD from the things I witnessed and experienced as a small child.

Meet Lina, a Fitness Instructor at Stoney Creek Community Centre, YMCA & Library!

Mike joined the YMCA in July 2023 through London’s Y Opportunities Employment Services Program. Through this program Mike wanted to change his career path and use his past skills and experiences and work in something he loved and was passionate about. Through the classes Mike gained skills in recreating his resume to help define his transferable skills and write effective cover letters.

Y Opportunities is an employment program that assists people with diagnosed or self-identified disabilities to overcome their barriers to employment.Meet Y Opportunities participant, Connor, and his employer, Scott Gillis, owner of Rocky Mountain Chocolate! Connor became a skilled chocolatier under his guidance and mentorship.

I’m Tashar and I’m from India. I’ve been in Canada for almost three years now, working as a customs broker for two years.

I am a refugee from Sudan who came to Canada under a government assisted refugee program (GAR) in July 2000. I arrived here with my wife kwaci Nywala and three of our children - Keak, Nancy, and Tessie. I settled in Windsor and Windsor remains my home.

Meet Mary, a YMCA volunteer at the membership desk at Stoney Creek YMCA, Community Centre & Library. Mary first started as a member in 2012 and now she’s often the first point of contact when people walk through our doors!

Lindsey’s Y StoryMeet Lindsey, a fitness instructor volunteer at Centre Branch YMCA!