Community members gathered at the YMCA of Southern Interior BC YMCA Showcase event and AGM earlier this month, where they celebrated their charitable impact in 2022. Key highlights included the expansion of the charities child care division, the increasing number of programs serving vulnerable youth, and a focus on preventative health programs to increase exercise adherence.
Notable achievements included:
- 500 new licensed child care spaces currently under construction
- 3000+ children learned valuable skills in Y camps and programs
- 235 individuals graduated from Y employment programs
- 797 people received financial assistance to access YMCA memberships for their health and wellbeing
“I am incredibly proud of everything our team accomplished last year, it felt wonderful to get together in person and celebrate our achievements,” states Allyson Graf, YMCA of Southern Interior BC President & CEO. “From exercise adherence to school perseverance, and affordable child care, our team is removing barriers and empowering more community members to reach their full potential.”
Peter Dinsdale, YMCA Canada President & CEO, was in attendance. He was previously the Chief Executive Officer for the Assembly of First Nations and is currently on the Board of the Canadian Olympic Committee. Peter was able to speak to the work of YMCAs across Canada, and the unique accomplishments of our local YMCA, including it’s notable recovery after the pandemic.
The event also recognized staff and volunteers for their longevity and ongoing excellence and appointed the Board for 2023. The current slate of the YMCAs Board of Directors for 2023 include David Bond (Board Chair), John Duff (Treasurer), Brea Lake (Vice Chair), Michelle Cook, John Devitt, Craig Folvik, Rod Gibbings, Kyla Magee, Steven Morrison, and Erin Strong.
The YMCA of Southern Interior BC, formerly the YMCA of Okanagan, was established over 40 years ago as a cause-driven charity with a mission dedicated to building healthy individuals and communities. The Y strives to promote healthy lifestyles, nurture young minds, and strengthen the community. Learn more about the Ys impact.