The YMCA of Western Ontario is a charitable organization committed to helping people live full and healthy lives. Our offerings are diverse, ranging from youth and educational programs, to English as a Second Language for adults, to childcare and camping, to the traditional health, fitness and recreation programming for which we are renowned. Open access to our services – regardless of income – is the cornerstone of our mission. Last year, the YMCA of Western Ontario assisted 4,345 people with memberships, provided 1,559 camp spaces and 390 assisted childcare spaces to those who were unable to afford the cost.

Making a difference while answering the needs of a population is something the YMCA of Western Ontario understands very well. For over 150 years, the Y has served the community and responded to new priorities as they have evolved. Our programming improves the quality of life for people of all backgrounds and abilities, including the ability to pay; we support and promote diversity among our population. Our positioning statement, "We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities," reinforces the way these critical elements within society come together to form a healthy whole.

Our community stakeholders, YMCA members and alumni share many fundamental values and goals. To remain vibrant and relevant to a community one must adapt and grow with the community. Over 25 years ago we worked together to build the “YMCA Centre Branch”, on Waterloo Street, following a devastating fire which destroyed the previous facility. It is time to partner with the community again.

To help us enhance our capacity to serve the public we feel privileged to be embarking on a journey which will build, expand, renew and rebuild landmark facilities. We feel confident the three Rediscover your Y projects introduced below will demonstrate the Y’s commitment to building the community:

• New Stoney Creek Community Centre, YMCA & Library: building to responding to London’s growth

• Renewed and Expanded Bob Hayward Branch: enhancing support to a diverse population

• Rebuild Camp Queen Elizabeth: renewing investment in children and youth


Foundation and Campaign Team