MembershipSurvey
At the YMCA, we want everyone who comes to our centres of community to find the support and spaces they need to meet their health and well-being goals! To better understand if our YMCA is meeting the needs and expectations of our members, we are conducting a YMCA Member Experience Survey This short survey will take approximately 5 minutes to complete. Your feedback will ensure our YMCA continues to have the greatest impact possible on the health and wellness of our members and our community. Thank you for being a valued part of our YMCA and for your time in completing our survey! To complete the survey, scan the QR Code above or head HERE
ShineOnCampaign
The YMCA of Southwest Nova Scotia Joins National ‘Shine On’ Campaign to Empower Local Community https://youtu.be/PZ9Fm4mJ79YThe YMCA is a charity igniting the potential in people. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all, in welcoming spaces that are both nurturing and fun – a community of shared responsibilities, where children and families can thrive. Check out our latest brand campaign, which highlights a variety of programs that can help you reach your full potential. and see what you can achieve at the YMCA. September 18, 2024 – A new survey commissioned by YMCA Canada, conducted among Angus Reid Forum members, reveals that a staggering 60% of Canadians feel disconnected from their community, with 16% reporting they never feel a sense of community and 44% experiencing it only sometimes. The survey, launched alongside the YMCA’s first nationwide brand awareness campaign, highlights the state of social connections in Canada. Combatting Loneliness in a Fragmented Society The survey revealed that feelings of disconnection are particularly acute among Canadians under 55, with 68% of 18 to 34-year-olds and 64% of 25 to 54-year-olds feeling a lack of belonging. These feelings were most pronounced among the unemployed, with a striking 76% feeling disconnected from their communities. However, the survey also uncovered solutions among those who feel a stronger sense of connection. Key factors contributing to a feeling of belonging include: Spending less time on electronic devices Engaging in extracurricular activities that foster community involvement Interacting with others outside of work or school at least twice a week “The YMCA has long been a trusted community partner,” said Peter Dinsdale, President & CEO, YMCA Canada. “In cities and towns across Canada, the YMCA is a lifeline for many. YMCAs provide inclusive spaces and programs where people, regardless of background or income, can find community, build relationships, and shine. At a time when so many feel they don’t always belong, the YMCA offers opportunities for people to make meaningful social connections.” Young People and Children Hit Hard by Isolation The survey also highlights a significant issue among younger Canadians and children. According to the data, the average Canadian spends three hours a day on their phone, with younger Canadians (18-34) averaging nearly four hours. When asked which phone activities felt most isolating, 58% cited social media scrolling, with 71% of 18-34-year-olds reporting that it heightens feelings of isolation. What’s more, nearly one-third of parents surveyed report that their children express feelings of isolation, and almost half (49%) say their kids rely more on online interactions than in-person ones. The YMCA offers tailored programs for youth and families that focus on real-world skills, physical activity, and social connections. “At the YMCA of Southwest Nova Scotia, we are committed to creating inclusive spaces where people from all walks of life can come together and build lasting connections,” said CEO of YMCA Southwest Nova Scotia, Yvonne Smith. “This research highlights the critical need for more opportunities to foster community and belonging across Southwest Nova Scotia, and we’re proud to offer programs that help individuals and families find support, friendship, and a sense of purpose.” Income Inequality: A Challenge for Social EngagementIn addition to age and screen time, the survey reveals that income plays a significant role in Canadians’ ability to maintain social connections. Among employed Canadians and students, 64% of those earning over $100,000 annually report seeing people five to seven times a week, while 43% of Canadians interact with others outside of work or school only two days a week or less. For lower-income Canadians, the struggle is even more pronounced. Only 28% of those earning below $50,000 annually experience social interactions 5-7 times per week compared to 42% of higher earners. The YMCA’s affordable programs, coupled with financial assistance, provide a crucial bridge for those facing economic barriers, ensuring everyone can engage with their community, regardless of their financial situation. Third Places Offer CommunityThe survey highlights the value of “third places”—community spaces outside home or work. While 36% of Canadians report not having one, those who do have a third place report higher levels of belonging and connection to their community, with parks and outdoor spaces being the most popular. Even those without a third place recognize its importance: 91% say they help build strong communities 89% believe they boost well-being 85% feel they improve quality of life 84% agree they foster belonging As winter approaches, YMCA Centres of Community aim to fill this gap, providing welcoming spaces for connection and mental and physical health. About YMCA Canada The YMCA is a charity that ignites the potential in over 2 million people annually, helping them grow, lead, and give back to their communities. Across Canada, the YMCA delivers a wide variety of programs and services that empower people of all ages and life stages to overcome barriers and rise to their full potential. Programs include child care, health and wellness, aquatics, employment services, immigrant settlement, camps, mental wellness, and many other community initiatives that respond to local needs. Foundational to all this is the YMCA’s commitment to creating spaces and experiences where everyone feels safe, welcome, and a sense of belonging. The YMCA in Canada is comprised of 37 YMCA Member Associations, supported by YMCA Canada, the national office, working together so all Canadians can shine on. For more information, please visit ymca.ca About the Survey These findings are from a survey conducted by YMCA from August 29 to September 3, 2024, among a representative sample of 1,501 online Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/-2.53 percentage points, 19 times out of 20. If you would like more information, please contact Bronté James at [email protected]
ChildMind
Well-trained staff and volunteers care for your child(ren) while you take some time to work on your health and fitness! Who: Ages 6 months – 10 years. When: 6pm – 8pm, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9am – 11am, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday 4pm – 6pm, Sunday Cost: $3.15 per hour, per child. Unless the child is included in a family membership. How to register: By calling 902-543-9622 Only 6 spots available at a time. Only 2 children under the age of 18-months can be registered at a time Pre-registration is required, up to 72-hours prior to the desired time slot Child Protection Information For Child Protection, everyone entering our YMCA must scan their membership card at the welcome desk, or sign in with our welcome desk team with a Government-issued photo ID. Sign-in/out policy: At the beginning of the class, participants 12 years old and under must check in with the instructor with an adult (16 yrs+). At the end of the class, participants 12 years old and under must check out by the same adult. Admission Policy 13 years and up can access the facility without adult supervision. 9 – 12 years can access the facility with an adult/guardian in the building (adult/guardian must be at least 16 years of age). 13 years and up can access the cardio and strength conditioning levels without adult supervision 9-13 years can access the cardio and strength conditioning levels with adult/guardian supervision at all times Important Information for parents/caregivers YMCA Child Minding is designed for children 6 months to 10 years of age* Only 2 children under the age of 18 months can be registered at a time The parent/caregiver must be an active YMCA member and remain in the YMCA facility. Visits are booked in 2-hour time blocks. Children are only able to attend within the booked time, but do not have to attend for the full 2-hours they are booked in. For example, if you book from 9:00-11:00 am, your child can attend for any amount of time in that booked session and must be picked up by 11:00 am. Cost is $3.15 per hour, per child or included in an ongoing family membership. Limited spaces are available to allow for a low staff-to-child ratio. Limit to 6 children. A space must be pre-booked for each child. Booking over the phone, by calling 902-543-9622, can be done as early as 72 hours prior and will close 24 hours prior, or when a specific date/time is full. Cancellations or changes can be made with no charge/penalty. Parents/caregivers are required to provide their own diapers and wipes if applicable. Please clearly label all water bottles and diaper bags. Caregivers QualificationsYMCA Child Protection TrainingFirst Aid and CPR certificationCriminal record checkChild abuse registry The YMCA is the largest provider of licensed not-for-profit childcare in the province. As we expand to serve new communities and more families throughout Nova Scotia, we will continue to provide the high-quality, inclusive and affordable play-based early learning experience that the YMCA is known for.
Liverpool Childcare
Starting November, we’re opening MORE child care spaces at your Liverpool YMCA Childcare Centre! Who: Children, 4 months – 5 yearsWhere: Liverpool YMCA Childcare Centre (108 College St., Liverpool)How to register: Contact your Liverpool YMCA Childcare Director at: [email protected] The YMCA is the largest provider of licensed not-for-profit childcare in the province. As we expand to serve new communities and more families throughout Nova Scotia, we will continue to provide the high-quality, inclusive and affordable play-based early learning experience that the YMCA is known for.
Beverley, LiveWell
Beverley and Steve joined the YMCA almost 25 years ago Their weekends were taken up with triathlons, marathons, races 👟🚴♀️🏊♂️ and now, when she’s not on the Wellness Floor, Beverley has joined the LiveWell Program. “All this strength work with the bands and the weights and everything else … It’s a welcoming place and everybody’s at their own level, and they’re getting stuff done and keeping their health going as much as possible.” 🎙❤️ Listen to Beverley’s full Y story
Child care yard sale
Let’s come together, find hidden treasures, and help every child shine! Join us for a Yard Sale following the Privateer Days Parade! When: Saturday, June 29th (11am Parade, 12-4pm Yard Sale)Where: Liverpool YMCA Childcare Centre (108 College St., Liverpool)Cost: It’s all by donation! Every dollar goes directly to supporting children in your community Together, we can create opportunities for success and champion inclusivity. Your support makes a difference!
heatsafety
Keep Safe & Keep Cool This Summer! Many of us love the summer warmth, but did you know that extreme heat can cause illness like heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death? Those who are most at risk include older adults, infants and children, people who have chronic illness including breathing difficulties, and those who work or exercise outside. To find out how to be safe in the heat: Check out Health Canada’s infographic: Staying Healthy in the Heat. Read about Three ways to protect you and your loved ones during an extreme heat event. Watch this video on Staying healthy in the heat. Follow and share Healthy Canadians Facebook post on What to do if your family member has heat stroke.
GirlsAtBat
Girls At Bat is an introductory level baseball program designed to reduce some of the biggest barriers anyone identifying* as a girl may face when accessing or participating in sport. Some of these barriers include, but are not limited to, sport being too competitive, having a perceived lack of skill, limited access to opportunity, and low confidence. Girls At Bat works to remove these barriers by creating spaces that empower and centre the leadership and voices of girls and provide opportunities for them to learn and play sport amongst a resilient and inclusive community. The program changes the game for girls by focusing on four key pillars: connection, courage, leadership, and love of sport. The program is implemented by schools and community organizations with the goal of increasing participation and retention in sport and play. For girls only Cost is $10/child All equipment is provided They get a hat and t-shirt from the Blue Jay’s To register for ages 5 – 8, head HERE To register for ages 9-12 head HERE Or, email Kim Roy to register Why it’s important 1 in 4 girls is not committed to returning to their pre-pandemic sport participation levels (Canadian Women & Sport, 2021). 1 in 3 girls report a poor perception of belonging as a factor for dropping out of sport (Canadian Women and Sport, 2020). By the age of 14, girls are 2x more likely to drop out of sport (Women’s Sports Foundation’s Go out and Play: Youth Sports in America report).
ymcabootcamp
Let’s break a sweat, have some fun, and build a stronger community together! Everyone’s welcome — ages 11 years and up – come as you are and let’s thrive together.The best part?? It’s 100% FREE!! We will provide:– Medicine Balls – Kettlebells – Battleropes All you need to bring is: – Your own pair of dumbells – shoes – energy – positive attitude Where: Woodland Gardens Park130 Jubilee Road, Bridgewater (behind Desbrisay Museum) When: Tuesday, June 11th, 18th and 25th & Thursday, June 13th, 20th and 27th 6pm – 7pm
YouthCarWash
YMCA Youth Car Wash & Yard Sale Everything is by donation With all proceeds support YMCA Youth Programs! Where: NSCC Gymnasium at the Lunenburg County YMCA (75 High St., Bridgewater) When: Saturday, June 15th 10a – 2p, Car Wash 9a – 2p, Yard Sale All 12 tables on-site are also for sale, all by donation! Looking to donate? On Friday, June 14th, bring your donations to the Lunenburg County YMCA at 75 High Street, and talk to your Membership Staff.