YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo promoting a wellness mindset

Since its early beginnings in 1851, the YMCA has grown as a worldwide organization aimed at making communities healthier and stronger – a goal ingrained in founder George William from the start. With its first location opening in Montreal, the YMCA quickly became a notable part of Canadian communities. The organization has woven its way into our culture and strives to meet the changing needs of Canadians – young and old of varied backgrounds.

The YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo are working hard to make a difference in and out of their doors in Waterloo Region. The collaborative organization received funding through FedDev Ontario’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) to make necessary facility repairs and renovations to increase building safety and accessibility.

“FedDev Ontario’s support for the Chaplin Family YMCA in Cambridge and the A.R. Kaufman YMCA in Kitchener will provide long-term benefits to the community and maximize the Y’s ability to impact the individuals it serves,” says Tom Abbott, Vice-President, Membership Services and Facility Development, YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo.

• YMCAs of Cambridge & Kitchener-Waterloo
• History of the YMCA Canada
• FedDev Ontario supports YMCA of Western Ontario

With an average of 15,000 annual participants, the A.R. Kaufman Family YMCA is a busy, activity-filled hub. In order to keep up with day-to-day programming, the building needed repairs, including renovations to the front lobby, as well as repairs and improvements to the change areas. The refurbished front lobby now accommodates easier access to staff by those with mobility challenges. The work was completed by local trades-workers and contractors, which generated paid employment for members of the community.

“The YMCA is integral and vital to the overall well-being and health of a community. Our mission is to build a healthier community, and we operate as a centre of community where potential grows, everyone belongs and health goals are achieved,” says Abbott.

At a time when people are moving faster, working harder and sitting longer than ever before, the YMCA is an important outlet for physical and emotional health. For this YMCA group, facility improvements better reflect the positive work being done in the community, allowing this wellness mindset to continue for years to come.