News and Stories

My name is Kaylee Cornish, and I see the impact of donor gifts every day. After 7 incredible years working at the Kelowna Family YMCA, I resigned to pursue my dream of becoming an LPN. Leaving was tough because I consider so many Y members my friends and because the Y had become my second home.

“A year ago, my fitness regime consisted of fighting the jets in the hot tub. Now, at 69 years old, I participate in TRX and yoga classes three times a week. Thanks to the YMCA, I have been able to drastically improve my balance, stabilize my weight, and increase my energy levels.

Ali Fraser and her three children—Mahala, Dream and Tally—moved to Kelowna in 2015 in search of a fresh start. After years on their First Nations reserve, Ali made the difficult decision to move her kids away from the only home they had ever known.

When Valerie first retired, she had many dreams of things she wanted to do. But she noticed that she couldn’t walk stairs very well and was starting to have trouble getting around. She knew she wanted to garden and travel and for that, she needed to be able to move around comfortably. 

“Be fearless!” Those are Sheryl’s words of wisdom for her kids. But in saying them, she realized that she was letting her own fear of the water hold her children back from learning how to swim.

Dane Webster was on his own at the age of 17 and didn’t know what he wanted to do with his life. He worked a few odd jobs until he was in his early twenties, but was struggling to find sustainable work that he enjoyed. He needed direction. When Dane was referred to a YMCA youth employment program, he was grateful to find a supportive network that could help him find his way.